Get dextromethorphan (Delsym) online prescriptions for cold and flu symptoms

Dextromethorphan is a common medication used to treat cold and flu symptoms. Talk to a provider to discuss whether dextromethorphan is right for you.

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Product Overview

Dextromethorphan (Robitussin)

  • What is dextromethorphan (Delsym)
    Dextromethorphan relieves coughing symptoms caused by respiratory tract infections and other conditions. This medication should only be used to relieve cough symptoms caused by acute illnesses like the common cold or the flu.

    Some strengths of dextromethorphan are available over the counter, meaning they can be purchased without a prescription. Other strengths, or certain formulations containing dextromethorphan, require a written prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

  • What are the common side effects of dextromethorphan (Delsym)?
    Using dextromethorphan has been shown to cause some side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider if these adverse reactions become severe or do not go away within a few days.

    Common side effects include dizziness, lightheadedness, and nausea.

    This is not a complete list of side effects. If you are concerned about additional side effects, please contact your provider directly.

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Medically Reviewed By Dr. Allison Edwards, MD

Frequently asked questions about dextromethorphan

Medically reviewed by:
Medically Reviewed By Dr. Allison Edwards, MD

Dextromethorphan relieves coughing symptoms caused by respiratory tract infections and other conditions. This medication should only be used to relieve cough symptoms caused by acute illnesses like the common cold or the flu. It should not be used to treat coughing symptoms caused by chronic illnesses like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or emphysema.

Some strengths of dextromethorphan are available over the counter, meaning they can be purchased without a prescription. Other strengths, or certain formulations containing dextromethorphan, require a written prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Dextromethorphan is available in generic form as dextromethorphan or under various brand names, such as Delsym and Vicks Cough Relief. It’s important to note that these medicines may contain other drugs. Be sure to read the packaging of your medication so you are aware of its active ingredients.

Dextromethorphan relieves cough symptoms caused by acute respiratory infections like the common cold and influenza (the flu).

Common colds are the most prevalent form of upper respiratory infection. The upper respiratory system comprises your nose, mouth, sinuses, and throat. When these areas are infected with a virus or bacteria, they may become inflamed. Colds can sometimes involve the lower respiratory tract, including the lungs.

Common symptoms of a cold include:

  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Runny nose (also known as nasal discharge or rhinitis)
  • Nasal congestion (stuffy nose)
  • Post-nasal drip
  • Sinus pressure or facial pressure
  • Sore throat
  • Decreased sense of smell
  • Low-grade fever

The flu (or influenza) is a viral infection of the respiratory system (namely your nose, throat, and lungs).

Common symptoms of the flu include:

  • Fever
  • Body aches
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Chills or sweating
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children than adults)

Dextromethorphan specifically targets cough symptoms caused by these infections. It is not a cure for these conditions, nor should it be used for chronic cough symptoms caused by COPD, emphysema, or other chronic conditions. In addition, dextromethorphan will not effectively reduce the concurrent symptoms of a cold or the flu (such as fever, sneezing, or headaches).

Dextromethorphan is classified as an antitussive medication. Antitussive medications work by suppressing the cough reflex in the body. When the respiratory tract becomes irritated due to various factors such as infections, allergies, or irritants, the cough reflex is triggered as a defense mechanism to clear the airways. Antitussive drugs act on the cough center in the brain, known as the medulla oblongata, and the peripheral cough receptors in the airways to decrease the sensitivity of these areas to irritants. This reduces the frequency and intensity of coughing, providing relief to individuals suffering from persistent or disruptive coughs.

Dextromethorphan has been shown to cause mild side effects. Talk to a healthcare provider if these adverse reactions become severe or do not go away after a few days.

Mild side effects reported from dextromethorphan use include:

  • Dizziness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Drowsiness
  • Nervousness
  • Stomach pain
  • Constipation

More severe side effects include:

  • Severe drowsiness
  • Severe dizziness
  • Blurry vision
  • Skin rash

Seek medical attention immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. These are signs of a severe adverse reaction requiring medical treatment.

At high doses dextromethorphan can cause loss of motor control, nausea, vomiting, sedation, distorted visual perceptions.

As with all medications, inform your doctor of any medical conditions you currently manage before taking this drug. Tell them about any and all medications, prescription drugs, and supplements you are taking before starting treatment with dextromethorphan. This medication can interact with other substances, causing potentially severe adverse reactions.

If you take a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor, talk to a healthcare provider before taking medication containing dextromethorphan.

In addition, let your doctor know if you smoke before taking dextromethorphan.

Finally, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with dextromethorphan. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, inform your healthcare provider right away.

Dextromethorphan is commonly supplied as a lozenge, syrup, or oral suspension.

The recommended dosage varies depending on the patient’s age, body weight, and condition. Take this medication exactly as ordered. Do not increase or discontinue the dosage without consulting your healthcare provider first.

Talk to your healthcare provider about how often to use medications containing dextromethorphan. Dextromethorphan has been shown to be habit-forming when used too frequently.

Keep all medication bottles out of reach of small children and at room temperature. Avoid exposing the medication to excess heat or moisture. Do not freeze this medication.

If you notice any adverse side effects, notify your healthcare provider immediately.

If you miss a dose of dextromethorphan, take it as soon as possible. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regularly scheduled amount. Do not take a double dose of dextromethorphan.

Dextromethorphan is widely available over-the-counter. That means that this medication can be purchased without a prescription. Dextromethorphan and its brand-name forms can be found at most convenience stores, grocery stores, and medical retailers (like CVS).

Dextromethorphan can cause adverse side effects when combined with other medications or supplements. Talk to a healthcare provider before taking dextromethorphan if you are taking any prescription medications or supplements or are managing an ongoing health concern.

Dextromethorphan can be purchased without a prescription, so you can get it at most stores where OTC medicines are sold. This includes grocery stores, convenience stores, gas stations, and medical retailers. Dextromethorphan can also be purchased online for delivery.

Looking for more information? Book an online doctor visit to talk to a healthcare provider about whether dextromethorphan is right for you.

Dextromethorphan is a generic drug. It’s available in its generic form or under brand names like:

  • Delsym
  • Dexalone
  • Pediacare
  • Robafen Cough
  • Robitussin
  • Silphen DM
  • Simply Cough
  • St Joseph
  • Vicks 44 Cough Relief
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