Tomephen(Dextromethorphan)

Therapeutic Group: Respiratory

Presentation

Tomephen Syrup: Each 5 ml of syrup contains Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide BP 10 mg.

Description

Dextromethorphan is the d-isomer of the codeine analog of levorphanol, but does not have any opiate-like effects. It is a non-narcotic antitussive. Its cough suppressant action is due to a central action on the cough center in the medulla. Dextromethorphan does not induce tolerance, and has no potential for addiction like opiates.

Indications

Dextromethorphan is used to relieve dry cough caused by a cold, flu or other conditions.

Dosage & Administration

Tomephen is an orally administered syrup.
Adults (>12 years of age): 10-20 mg (1-2 teaspoonful) every 4 hours, or 30 mg (3 teaspoonful) every 6-8 hours. Do not exceed 120 mg (12 teaspoonful) in 24 hours.
Children
6 to 12 years of age: 5-10 mg (1/2-1 teaspoonful) every 4 hours, or 15 mg (11/2 teaspoonful) every 6-8 hours. Do not exceed 60 mg (6 teaspoonful) in 24 hours.
2 to 6 years of age: 2.5-5 mg (1/4-1/2 teaspoonful) every 4 hours, or 7.5 mg (3/4 teaspoonful) every 6-8 hours. Do not exceed 30 mg (3 teaspoonful) in 24 hours.
<2 years of age: Use only as directed by the physician.

Side Effects

Adverse effects with Dextromethorphan appear to be rare and may include dizziness and gastrointestinal disturbances.

Precautions

Do not use Dextromethorphan to control a cough that is associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema, or a cough that is productive (produces sputum or phlegm).

Use in Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy: Adequate and well-controlled studies in human have not been done. However, Dextromethorphan has not been reported to cause birth defects.
Lactation: It is not known whether dextromethorphan passes into breast milk. However, Dextromethorphan has not been reported to cause problems in nursing babies.

Drug Interaction

The following medicines should be taken carefully while concomitantly use with Dextromethorphan: Amiodarone, Fluoexetine, Quinidine, CNS depressants and Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors.

Over Dose

Seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of a Dextromethorphan overdose include slurred speech, restlessness, a feeling of poor coordination, difficulty in breathing, and seizures.

Storage

Do not store above 30C. Keep away from light and out of the reach of children.

Commercial Pack

Tomephen Syrup: Each box contains a bottle of 100 ml syrup and a measuring cup.