What is Delsym?
Delsym, a common cough suppressant, is prescribed to relieve coughs caused by the flu or the common cold. Delsym does not treat coughs caused by smoking or emphysema. Dextromethorphan is available in many different brands. This leaflet does not list all available brands. Delsym can be used in other ways not mentioned in the medication guide.
Side effects of Delsym
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergy: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling in your lips, face, throat, or tongue
Delsym can cause severe side effects. Delsym should be stopped immediately, and you need to call your doctor if:
- Severe nervousness and confusion
- Severe dizziness or drowsiness;
- Blurred vision
- Urination that is painful or difficult
Delsym side effects may include:
- Loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea;
- Dizziness;
- Tingling;
- Feeling restless
There may be other side effects.Call your physician if experiencing side effects; to report these call the FDA directly at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
benzonatate, benadryl, diphenhydramine, guaifenesin, diextromethorphan, and mucinex
Warnings
Delsym should not be used if an MAO inhibitor has been taken in the last 14 days. Examples include isocarboxazid (linezolid), phenelzine (phenelzine injection), rasagiline (selegiline), or tranylcypromine.
Before you take this drug
Delsym should not be used if an MAO inhibitor has been taken in the last 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction may occur. The MAO inhibitors are isocarboxazid (linezolid), methylene blue injection (phenelzine), rasagiline (selegiline), tranylcypromine, and many others. If you have an allergy to Delsym, then it is best not to use the product. If you are suffering from any health conditions, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether this medication is suitable for use. Delsym is not recommended for children younger than 12. Consult your doctor if you're pregnant or breastfeeding before taking this medication. The medicine you are taking may contain phenylalanine. If you have phenylketonuria, check the label of your medication.
How to take Delsym?
Keep to the instructions outlined on your package or those provided by your physician. Use cold or cough medicines only as needed until symptoms have cleared up. Measuring liquid medication is important. Dosing devices are available, but not spoons. If your symptoms don't improve within 7 days or you experience a headache, fever, or rash, call your doctor. Tell your doctor or surgeon if you are going to need medical testing or surgery that you've taken Delsym within the last few days. Keep away from heat, moisture, and light. Store at room temperature, away from moisture, heat and light.
What happens if I miss the dose?
As your cough and cold medication will only be taken as needed, don't take two doses at the same time if it almost time for another. Instead, skip any missed dosage altogether until your next scheduled one.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 immediately if you suspect being poisoned and require emergency assistance or seek immediate medical treatment.
What should be avoided?
Delsym can affect your reaction to driving and other hazardous activities. You may be unable to react properly. Certain side effects can be exacerbated by alcohol consumption. Before using Delsym or other over-the-counter medicines, consult your doctor.
Interaction with other drug
This medicine should not be taken with any other medications that can cause you to fall asleep or have difficulty breathing. (For example, opioids, muscle relaxers, and medicines for anxiety or seizures.) Before using other medications, such as vitamins and herbs, consult your doctor or pharmacist. This medication guide does not list all possible interactions with other drugs.
