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Tabtussin DM

Generic name: dextromethorphan and guaifenesin [DEX-troe-me-THOR-fan-and-gwye-FEN-e-sin]

Brand names: Adult Cough DM, Children Giltuss Cough and Chest Congestion, Children’s Delsym Cough+Chest Congest DM, Children’s Robitussin Cough and Chest, Children’s Robitussin Cough and Chest Congestion DM,… Show all 99 brands
Drug Class: Upper Respiratory Combinations

In the U.S., tabtussin DM has been withdrawn. There may be equivalents if generic versions have been approved by the FDA.

What is Tabtussin Dm?

Dextromethorphan suppresses coughing. Guaifenesin acts as an expectorant. Tabtussin is a combination medication used to treat coughs, chest congestion, and allergies caused by the common cold.

Dextromethorphan does not treat a cough caused by smoking. This leaflet does not list all the brands or forms of medication that are available. Tabtussin Dm may be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.

Side Effects of Tabtussin DM

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat.

Tabtussin can cause serious side effects. If you experience:

  • Mood changes
  • Headache; severe headache
  • Feeling dizzy or anxious, as if you could pass out.

Side effects associated with tabtussin DM include:

  • Dizziness, drowsiness;
  • Sleep problems (insomnia);
  • Diarrhea;
  • Feeling nervous, restless, or anxious

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.

Warnings

If you've taken an MAO-inhibitor in the last 14 days (such as isocarboxazid or linezolid), or if your symptoms are worsened by MAO-inhibitors, do not take this medication.

Before you take this drug

Tabtussin is not recommended if you've taken MAO inhibitors in the last 14 days. Drug interactions can occur. MAO inhibitors are isocarboxazid (linezolid), methylene blue injection, rasagiline, and selegiline.

If you suffer from:

  • A cough that produces mucus
  • Asthma, or chronic lung disease.

Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. This medication may contain phenylalanine. If you suffer from phenylketonuria, make sure your medication contains an indication. Checking its label is key.

How to take Tabtussin DM?

Please read and follow all directions provided on the label or prescribed by your healthcare provider when using cold and cough medicines, which should only be taken temporarily until symptoms have cleared up. Follow the directions on the label when giving cough or cold medicines to children, never using these remedies to put them to sleep.

Measuring liquid medicine is important. Use the provided dosing device or a dose-measuring tool (not a spoon). It may be necessary to shake the liquid prior to measuring a dose. Please follow all the instructions on the label. Do not chew, crush or break an extended-release tablet. The granules can be sprinkled directly on your tongue. Swallow immediately.

While taking this medication, drink extra fluids in order to loosen congestion and lubricate the throat. If your symptoms don't improve within 7 days or you experience a headache, fever, rash, or other symptoms, call your doctor. Tell the surgeon if you've taken this medication within the last few days. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Tabtussin is taken as needed, and there may not be a schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip any missed one. Never take two doses in one go.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.

What should be avoided?

Tabtussin can cause you to be impaired. Avoid driving and other hazardous activities until you are sure of how they will affect you. You may be unable to react properly. Alcohol consumption can have side effects when taken with this medication.

Before using any other cold or cough medicines, ask your doctor or pharmacist if they contain similar ingredients.

Interaction with other drug

Use this medicine only if you are not taking any other medications that can cause drowsiness, slow breathing, or anxiety (such as an opioid, muscle relaxer, or medication for seizures).

Before using this medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist if you also use any other medications, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. When used together, some medicines can have unwanted or harmful effects. This medication guide does not list all possible interactions.