Dextromethorphan Hydrochloride
Dextromethorphan Hydrochloride is a widely used cough suppressant that acts on the medulla cough center in the brain to reduce the urge to cough. It is commonly found in over-the-counter cold and cough preparations and is used for temporary relief of cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation.
Dextromethorphan is an over-the-counter cough suppressant that reduces coughing by acting on the brain's cough reflex center.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 267251
- Generic
- Dextromethorphan Hydrochloride
- Class
- pin-variant
- 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.
Temporary relief of cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation such as occurs with the common cold, inhaled irritants, or upper respiratory infections.
Acts as an NMDA receptor antagonist and sigma-1 receptor agonist in the medulla oblongata, suppressing the cough reflex by decreasing signals from the sensory nerve fibers that trigger coughing.
Should not be used in children under 4 years old without medical advice. May interact with certain antidepressants (MAO inhibitors, SSRIs) and other medications. High doses can cause dissociative effects and should be avoided. Patients with breathing problems should consult a doctor before use.
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 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy