Dextromethorphan will relieve a cough but will not treat the cause of the cough or speed recovery. Dextromethorphan is in a class of medications called antitussives. It works by decreasing activity in the part of the brain that causes coughing.

What are the contraindications of dextromethorphan?

Contraindications / Precautions

• Asthma, emphysema, tobacco smoking. Dextromethorphan is contraindicated in the treatment of chronic cough, especially when associated with excessive bronchial secretion.
• Hepatic disease.
• Children, infants.
• Pregnancy.
• Breast-feeding.
• Driving or operating machinery.
• MAOI therapy.
• Geriatric.

Do I need an expectorant or a decongestant?

A person with a productive cough can take an expectorant, but a dry or tickly cough usually requires a cough suppressant. Many OTC products contain a decongestant, but these are only effective for treating nasal congestion.

Is dextromethorphan an antihistamine?

Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine. Phenylephrine is a decongestant. Dextromethorphan, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine is a combination medicine used to treat cough, stuffy nose, and sneezing caused by allergies, the common cold, or the flu.

What causes a productive cough?

A productive cough can be triggered by a variety of causes such as: A virus – It is normal to develop a cough with ailments caused by a viral infection such as the cold or flu. Sinus drainage to the back of the throat is most often the cause of cough in this case.

What is a nonproductive or dry cough?

A nonproductive or dry cough is the result of an inflamed or irritated throat or upper airway. The body reacts by trying to clear the airway with a cough, but since there is nothing in the airway, this is often counterproductive, causing further irritation.

What does it mean when you cough up mucus all the time?

A productive cough is when you cough up mucus (phlegm). Mucus can also drip down the back of the throat from the nose or sinuses. New productive coughs are often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. These are often contagious when you cough. Chronic coughs are often caused by smoking.

How do you get rid of a productive cough?

Depending on the cause, a productive cough can be treated with over-the-counter cough medicines or honey, and by treating the cause, such as quitting smoking or avoiding allergic triggers. 1. Bronchitis No fever, or at most mild temperature elevation (up to 100.3°F)