Carbetapentane
Carbetapentane is a non-opioid cough suppressant (antitussive) used to temporarily relieve coughing associated with upper respiratory conditions such as colds, allergies, or bronchitis. It works by suppressing the cough reflex in the brain to reduce the urge to cough.
Carbetapentane is a non-opioid antitussive medication used to relieve cough symptoms.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- R05DB05
- RxNorm
- 20217
- Generic
- Carbetapentane
- Class
- atc-r05
- Brands
- Tannic-12 S, Allfen CX
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, solution, suspension
- 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.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 10-12.5mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 5-6.25mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 10mg once or twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours as needed
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if clearly needed and benefits outweigh risks
fetal monitoring as needed
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid or discontinue breastfeeding
decide whether to discontinue breastfeeding or discontinue drug
monitor infant for sedation or breathing changes
pediatric_age
under 2 yearsdo not use
not recommended in children under 2 years
n/a
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
2 12 yearsweight-based dosing required
use with caution only under healthcare provider supervision
monitor for sedation and respiratory depression
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlystart with lower dose
use with caution due to increased sensitivity to CNS effects
monitor for dizziness and sedation
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild moderateno adjustment needed for mild to moderate
use with caution
monitor renal function periodically
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild moderateno specific adjustment for mild to moderate
use with caution
monitor liver function
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information
Drug class
Drug class information
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses
Mechanism of action
Pharmacological action
Temporary relief of cough associated with the common cold, allergies, bronchitis, sinusitis, or other upper respiratory tract conditions. Often found in combination products with other cold symptom relievers.
As an antitussive agent, it suppresses the cough reflex in the central nervous system. It has both antitussive and mild anticholinergic properties that help reduce excessive coughing.
Available by prescription only in many regions. Should not be used for persistent coughs due to conditions like asthma, emphysema, or smoking. May cause drowsiness in some patients. Consult a healthcare provider before use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
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 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy