Acetaminophen / Dextromethorphan
Acetaminophen/Dextromethorphan is a combination medication used to temporarily relieve multiple symptoms of colds, flu, and upper respiratory infections. It addresses both pain and fever through acetaminophen while reducing coughing through dextromethorphan's action on the cough reflex in the brain. This medication is commonly available over-the-counter for self-treating mild to moderate symptoms in adults and children.
A combination cough and cold medicine that relieves pain, reduces fever, and suppresses cough.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 214180
- Generic
- Acetaminophen / Dextromethorphan
- Class
- multi-ingredient
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Temporarily treats symptoms of cold, flu, and upper respiratory infections including cough, sore throat, minor aches and pains, headache, and fever. Particularly useful when patients experience both cough and pain/fever simultaneously.
Acetaminophen works by inhibiting pain signals and resetting the body's temperature regulation in the brain to reduce fever. Dextromethorphan acts on the cough center in the brain's medulla to suppress the cough reflex, providing relief from persistent dry or hacking coughs.
Should not be combined with alcohol or other products containing acetaminophen to avoid liver damage. Patients with certain medical conditions, those taking specific medications (especially MAO inhibitors or antidepressants), or parents treating children under 6 years old should consult a healthcare provider before use. Do not exceed recommended doses or use for extended periods.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy