We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Medicine

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are the Different Effects of Dextromethorphan?

By Bethany Keene
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 3,910
Share

Dextromethorphan is an antitussive, or cough suppressant, often abbreviated DXM or simply DM. It is generally found in medications used to treat coughing caused by the common cold or flu. A variety of over the counter medications include this active ingredient, though prescription medications may be available from a doctor that include higher concentrations of it. The expected and intended effects of dextromethorphan is that it will suppress coughing, though the side effects of dextromethorphan can be somewhat unpleasant, and can cause dizziness, a feeling of drowsiness, or stomach irritation. It is typically given in liquid form, though chewable tabs may also be available.

It is important to be aware of the side effects of dextromethorphan because people who are taking this medication should not drive or operate machinery. Reaction time is slowed, and it could be dangerous, in addition to the potential dangers of feeling dizzy or sleepy. In addition, this medication has the potential to cause severe allergic reactions in people of all ages, but especially in young children. This may manifest as hives or a rash, in addition to swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat, which can lead to difficulty breathing or death if it is not immediately treated.

When dextromethorphan is used contrary to its indicated dosage, or for recreational use, side effects of dextromethorphan can be severe and may include hallucinations, vomiting, and a fast or irregular heartbeat. It may also cause breathing difficulties and hypertension, among other side effects. This drug should only be taken as indicated by following the dosage instructions on the bottle. Any other use can be very dangerous or even deadly.

These are only some of the possible effects of dextromethorphan, and each person may respond to this drug differently, so it is important to monitor reactions carefully to be sure an adverse reaction is not occurring. In addition, this medication is often combined with others in cold or flu medicines, such as pseudoephedrine, among many others. This can cause different reactions as well, so even if one has taken dextromethorphan in the past without any adverse side effects, it is still necessary to be careful. For instance, combining this medication with pseudoephedrine, a very common drug used for nasal congestion, can cause irritability and trouble sleeping in some people. It may also cause more severe effects such as seizures and trouble urinating.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-different-effects-of-dextromethorphan.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.