Cough Suppressants

Overview :

The cough suppressant described here, dextromethorphan, is an ingredient in many cough medicines, such as Vicks Formula 44, Drixoral Cough Liquid Caps, Sucrets Cough Control, Benylin DM and some Robitussin products. These medicines come in capsule, tablet, lozenge, and liquid forms and are available without a physician's prescription.

Recommended dosage:

Regular (short-acting) capsules, lozenges, syrups, or tablets:

• adults and children over 12: 10-30 mg every four to eight hours, as needed
• children six to 12: 5-15 mg every four to eight hours, as needed
• children two to six: 2.5-7.5 mg every four to eight hours, as needed (Children under six should not be given lozenges containing dextromethorphan because of the high dose of dextromethorphan in each lozenge.)
• children under two: check with child's physician

For extended-release oral suspension:

• adults and children over 12: 60 mg every 12 hours, as needed
• children six to 12: 30 mg every 12 hours, as needed
• children two to six: 15 mg every 12 hours, as needed
• children under two: check with child's physician
  
  

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