What is DM in cough syrup. How does dextromethorphan work as a cough suppressant. What are the potential side effects of DM cough syrup. When should you consult a doctor about your cough symptoms. How to properly use and dose DM cough syrup for adults and children.

Understanding DM Cough Syrup: Composition and Mechanism of Action

DM cough syrup is a widely used over-the-counter medication for treating coughs. But what exactly does “DM” stand for? DM is an abbreviation for dextromethorphan, the active ingredient in this type of cough suppressant. Dextromethorphan works by affecting the signals in the brain that trigger the cough reflex, effectively reducing the urge to cough.

How does dextromethorphan suppress coughs? It acts on the cough center in the medulla, a part of the brainstem, to raise the threshold for coughing. This means that the brain becomes less sensitive to irritants that would normally trigger a cough, providing relief from persistent, dry coughs.

Key Points About DM Cough Syrup

• Contains dextromethorphan as the active ingredient
• Designed for temporary relief of non-productive coughs
• Works by suppressing the cough reflex in the brain
• Effective for coughs associated with common colds and sinusitis
• Not recommended for coughs with phlegm or long-term respiratory conditions without doctor’s advice

Appropriate Uses and Limitations of DM Cough Syrup

When should you consider using DM cough syrup? This medication is primarily indicated for temporary relief of dry, irritating coughs that are often associated with upper respiratory infections like the common cold or sinusitis. It’s important to note that DM cough syrup is not a cure for these conditions but rather a symptomatic treatment to provide comfort and improve quality of life during the illness.

Are there situations where DM cough syrup should not be used? Indeed, this medication is not recommended for productive coughs (those that bring up mucus or phlegm) or for chronic respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis or emphysema, unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare professional. The reason for this is that coughing can be a beneficial mechanism for clearing the airways in these conditions, and suppressing it might lead to complications.

Appropriate Uses of DM Cough Syrup

1. Relief of dry, non-productive coughs
2. Temporary symptom management for colds and sinusitis
3. Short-term use as directed by a healthcare provider

When to Avoid DM Cough Syrup

1. Productive coughs (with phlegm)
2. Chronic respiratory conditions without doctor’s approval
3. Long-term or persistent coughs without medical evaluation
4. Children under 6 years old, unless directed by a pediatrician

Proper Administration and Dosage Guidelines for DM Cough Syrup

How should DM cough syrup be taken for optimal effect? The medication is typically administered orally, with dosing intervals ranging from every 4 to 12 hours as needed, or as directed by a healthcare provider. It’s crucial to use a proper measuring device, such as the cup provided with the medication, to ensure accurate dosing. Taking the syrup with food or milk can help alleviate potential stomach upset.

What factors determine the appropriate dosage of DM cough syrup? Dosage is based on several factors, including the specific product formulation, the patient’s age, medical condition, and response to treatment. For over-the-counter use, it’s essential to follow the dosing instructions on the packaging carefully, paying attention to age-specific guidelines.

General Dosing Guidelines

• Adults and children 12 years and older: 10-20 mg every 4 hours or 30 mg every 6-8 hours, not to exceed 120 mg in 24 hours
• Children 6-11 years: 5-10 mg every 4 hours or 15 mg every 6-8 hours, not to exceed 60 mg in 24 hours
• Children under 6 years: Use only under the guidance of a healthcare provider

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines and specific product instructions may vary. Always consult the product label or a healthcare professional for precise dosing information.

Recognizing and Managing Side Effects of DM Cough Syrup

What are the common side effects associated with DM cough syrup? While generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as slight drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting. These effects are usually transient and resolve on their own. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

Can DM cough syrup cause severe side effects? While rare, some individuals may experience more serious adverse reactions. These can include severe drowsiness, confusion, shallow breathing, or allergic reactions characterized by rash, itching, swelling (particularly of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If any of these severe symptoms occur, immediate medical attention should be sought.

Managing Common Side Effects

• Take the medication with food to reduce nausea
• Avoid activities requiring alertness if experiencing drowsiness
• Stay hydrated to help alleviate potential dry mouth
• Report persistent or worsening side effects to a healthcare provider

Precautions and Contraindications for DM Cough Syrup Use

Who should exercise caution when using DM cough syrup? Certain individuals may be at higher risk for adverse effects or may need to avoid the medication altogether. This includes people with a history of drug abuse, liver disease, respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and those taking certain medications that can interact with dextromethorphan.

What medical conditions or situations warrant special consideration before using DM cough syrup? Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their healthcare provider before using this medication. Additionally, those with phenylketonuria (PKU) should be aware that some formulations of DM cough syrup may contain aspartame, which can be problematic for individuals with this condition.

Key Precautions

1. Avoid alcohol consumption while taking DM cough syrup
2. Do not operate heavy machinery or drive if experiencing drowsiness
3. Inform healthcare providers of all current medications and supplements
4. Use caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of side effects
5. Monitor for signs of abuse or dependence, especially in individuals with a history of substance abuse

Potential Drug Interactions with DM Cough Syrup

What medications can interact with DM cough syrup? Several classes of drugs can potentially interact with dextromethorphan, altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Notable interactions include monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and certain antidepressants.

How can one prevent harmful drug interactions when using DM cough syrup? The key to preventing interactions is open communication with healthcare providers. Before starting DM cough syrup, inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications you’re currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements.

Common Drug Interactions to Be Aware Of

• MAOIs (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine)
• SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline)
• Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline)
• Quinidine
• Other cough and cold medications containing dextromethorphan

Special Considerations for Pediatric Use of DM Cough Syrup

Is DM cough syrup safe for use in children? The safety and efficacy of DM cough syrup in children under 6 years of age have not been well established. As a result, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends against using these products in young children unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider.

What alternatives are available for managing coughs in young children? For children under 6, non-pharmacological approaches are often recommended. These can include ensuring adequate hydration, using a humidifier to moisten the air, and employing saline nasal drops to relieve congestion. For older children, proper dosing based on age and weight is crucial to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Guidelines for Pediatric Cough Management

1. Consult a pediatrician before giving DM cough syrup to children under 12
2. Never use adult formulations for children
3. Monitor children closely for any adverse reactions
4. Consider non-medicinal approaches for symptom relief in young children
5. Ensure accurate dosing using provided measuring devices

Long-term Use and Potential for Abuse of DM Cough Syrup

Can DM cough syrup be used for extended periods? DM cough syrup is intended for short-term use to manage acute cough symptoms. Prolonged use without medical supervision is not recommended, as it may mask underlying conditions or lead to dependence. If cough symptoms persist beyond a week or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms like fever or difficulty breathing, medical evaluation is warranted.

What are the risks associated with misuse or abuse of DM cough syrup? When taken in excessive amounts, dextromethorphan can produce euphoric effects and hallucinations. This potential for abuse has led to restrictions on the sale of DM-containing products in some regions. Chronic abuse can result in serious health consequences, including brain damage, seizures, and in severe cases, death.

Signs of DM Cough Syrup Abuse

• Taking higher doses than recommended
• Using the medication without a cough or after symptoms have resolved
• Combining DM cough syrup with other substances for recreational purposes
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the medication
• Neglecting responsibilities or social activities due to DM cough syrup use

In conclusion, DM cough syrup can be an effective tool for managing acute, non-productive coughs when used appropriately. However, it’s crucial to adhere to recommended dosages, be aware of potential side effects and interactions, and seek medical advice for persistent symptoms or before use in special populations like young children. By understanding the proper use and limitations of DM cough syrup, individuals can safely manage their cough symptoms while minimizing risks.

DM Cough Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

This medication is used for temporary relief of coughs without phlegm that are caused by certain infections of the air passages (such as sinusitis, common cold). This product should not usually be used for an ongoing cough from smoking or long-term breathing problems (such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema) unless directed by your doctor. This product contains dextromethorphan. It is a cough suppressant that works by decreasing the feeling of needing to cough.Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not use this product to make a child sleepy. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).

How to use DM Cough Syrup

Take this medication by mouth, usually every 4 to 12 hours as needed or as directed by your doctor. If stomach upset occurs, take with food or milk. Use a medication-measuring device to measure your dose of liquid medication. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. If you are taking a suspension, shake the product well before measuring out your dose.

Dosage is based on the product you are taking and your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. If you are using this medication for self-treatment (without a prescription from your doctor), follow the specific dosing instructions on the packaging to find the correct dose for your age.

If your doctor directs you to take this medication daily, take it regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.

Improper use of this medication (abuse) may result in serious harm (such as brain damage, seizure, death). Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or use it for a longer time than prescribed. Properly stop the medication when so directed.

Tell your doctor if your symptoms last or get worse after more than 1 week or if you also have fever, chills, headache, or rash. These may be signs of a more serious condition.

Side Effects

Slight drowsiness/dizziness, nausea, or vomiting may occur. Rarely, some people may experience severe drowsiness/dizziness with normal doses. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US –

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking dextromethorphan, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: lung problems (such as asthma, emphysema).

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

This medicine may contain aspartame. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other condition that requires you to restrict your intake of aspartame (or phenylalanine), consult your doctor or pharmacist about using this drug safely.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Taking certain MAO inhibitors with this medication may cause a serious (possibly fatal) drug interaction. Avoid taking isocarboxazid, metaxalone, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, safinamide, selegiline, or tranylcypromine during treatment with this medication. Most MAO inhibitors should also not be taken for two weeks before treatment with this medication. Ask your doctor when to start or stop taking this medication.

Some products that may interact with this drug are: other medications for cough (such as hydrocodone, over-the-counter cough/cold products), rolapitant.

Does DM Cough Syrup interact with other drugs you are taking?

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Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: fast heartbeat, vomiting, sweating, nervousness, feeling high (euphoria), hallucinations, problems walking (staggering), agitation, severe drowsiness.

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

If you are taking this product on a regular schedule and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Cough Syrup DM Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

This combination medication is used to relieve coughs caused by the common cold, bronchitis, and other breathing illnesses. Guaifenesin belongs to a class of drugs known as expectorants. It works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, clearing congestion, and making breathing easier. Dextromethorphan belongs to a class of drugs known as cough suppressants. It acts on a part of the brain (cough center) to reduce the urge to cough.If you are self-treating with this medication, it is important to read the package instructions carefully before you start using this product to be sure it is right for you. (See also Precautions section.)Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Some products (such as long-acting tablets/capsules) are not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not use this product to make a child sleepy. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).

How to use EXTRA ACTION Cough

Take this medication by mouth with or without food, as directed by your doctor. If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. Fluids will help to break up mucus and clear congestion.

Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed.

If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

For powder packets, empty the entire contents of the packet onto the tongue and swallow. To prevent a bitter taste, do not chew. If you are taking the capsule form, swallow the capsule whole.

Improper use of this medication (abuse) may result in serious harm (such as brain damage, seizure, death). Do not increase your dose, take it more often, or use it for a longer time than directed.

Tell your doctor if your cough returns, or if it is accompanied by a headache that doesn’t go away, fever, severe sore throat, rash, or if it lasts or gets worse after 7 days. These may be signs of a serious medical problem. Get medical help right away if you think you may have a serious medical problem.

Side Effects

Dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US –

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking this drug, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to guaifenesin or dextromethorphan; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: breathing problems (such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, asthma, smoker’s cough), cough with blood or large amounts of mucus, liver problems.

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Liquid forms of this product may contain sugar and/or alcohol. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, liver disease, or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.

The liquid forms and powder packets of this medication may contain aspartame. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other condition that requires you to restrict your intake of aspartame (or phenylalanine), consult your doctor or pharmacist about using this medication safely.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if guaifenesin or dextromethorphan passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Taking certain MAO inhibitors with this medication may cause a serious (possibly fatal) drug interaction. Avoid taking isocarboxazid, metaxalone, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, safinamide, selegiline, or tranylcypromine during treatment with this medication. Most MAO inhibitors should also not be taken for two weeks before treatment with this medication. Ask your doctor when to start or stop taking this medication.

A product that may interact with this drug is: rolapitant.

Guaifenesin and dextromethorphan are available in both prescription and nonprescription products. Check the labels of all your medications to make sure you are not taking more than one product containing guaifenesin or dextromethorphan.

Guaifenesin can affect the results of certain lab tests (such as urine levels of certain acids). Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Does EXTRA ACTION Cough interact with other drugs you are taking?

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Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: extreme drowsiness, blurred vision, confusion, hallucinations, slow/shallow breathing, seizures.

If your doctor prescribed this medication, do not share this medication with others.

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze liquid forms of this medication. Different brands of this medication have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

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Cough Syrup DM 10 mg-100 mg/5 mL

Color: redShape: Imprint:

This medicine is a red, clear, cherry, syrup

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Yes, In the past 3 months

Yes, In the past 6 months

Yes, In the past year

Haven’t purchased but considering

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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Not all cough medicines are the same | Articles

Many cough syrups help children no better than sweet water. American scientists came to this conclusion by publishing their research in the well-known scientific journal Pediatrics. Now, when autumn confidently comes into its own, this information is extremely relevant.

Researchers at the Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania were driven by better feelings not only for the children, but also for their parents, who cannot sleep because of the persistent cough that shakes their child in their sleep. Doctors in a separate line included a question to parents: “How much does a child’s night cough disturb your sleep?” Parents had to fill out special questionnaires about how the child coughed at night. This was done twice: the first time the day before, when the child had not yet received any drugs, the second time the next night, when he was already given medicine.

Syrups with dextromethorphan (DM), diphenhydramine (DPH) or sugar were used as medicines. Each of these drugs should be discussed separately. DM refers to those substances that are believed to depress cough. By its nature, it is close to opioid drugs, but, of course, much weaker than them. Its closest relative is the drug codeine, which is also used as an antitussive. There are a lot of drugs with DM in Russia, and this study is all the more interesting for us.

DFG is better known in our latitudes as diphenhydramine, used in the treatment of allergies and as a sleeping pill. In Russia, it is not included in the composition of antitussive drugs (there are such features of national pharmacology in any country), and this part of the study is irrelevant for us. The third “medicine” was sweet water, or placebo (dummy). Burnt sugar is traditionally used to soothe coughs in children in Russia.

The researchers selected 100 children from 2 to 18 years old with the most common illness – a cold, or, scientifically speaking, with an acute respiratory viral infection (ARVI). Persistent nocturnal cough is a typical symptom of this disease. All children were divided into three groups. The first received DM, the second received diphenhydramine, and the third received placebo. But at the same time, the parents did not know what they were giving to their children: all medicines were impersonal. When summed up, it turned out that the results of treatment in all three groups did not differ. The strength of the cough, its frequency and persistent nature were the same both when taking the pacifier and when taking the medication. True, doctors noted that on the second night, when the drugs were taken, the cough was already weaker than the day before, when the children were not treated with anything, even a placebo. The Aesculapius attributed this effect to vis medicatrix naturae (healing power of nature). “The study supports the concept that SARS are self-healing diseases that improve over time,” American doctors write. This scientific conclusion is reminiscent of an anecdote from Soviet times: “If a cold is treated, then it passes in seven days, and if not, then in a week.”

Of course, many acute respiratory viral infections go away on their own, but this does not mean that all symptoms should be stoically endured. Including cough. Children often “roll up” in a fit of coughing so much that not only their eyes pop out of their sockets, but also pressure rises, microbleeds occur, there are pains in the chest and abdomen due to overload of the muscles involved in coughing. And if you do not restore nasal breathing, then the risk of otitis media (inflammation of the ear) and sinusitis (inflammation of the paranasal sinuses) increases. You also need to take temperature seriously. The higher it is, the more serious the intoxication of the body caused by viruses. And therefore, Russian scientists are increasingly talking about the need to use antiviral agents not only for influenza, but also for SARS.

How to treat a cough if DM remedies do not help? The world did not converge on them like a wedge. There are several other drugs that are used for this. Around them, too, there are disputes about how effective they are. But to refuse them, if the child is choking from a persistent cough, is not worth it. These are preparations with butamirate, glaucine, oxeladin, pentoxyverine. Last but not least, I would recommend codeine products. No matter what they say, this substance is a drug. And in no case do not exceed its dose.

And one more very important tip for treating cough. There are two types of cough, the treatment for which is opposite. These medicines should only be given for a persistent cough when there is no phlegm. If it is present or passes with difficulty, use expectorants and mucolytics: the drugs of these two groups weaken the cough, without oppressing it, but making it softer, making it easier for sputum to pass.

COFEX cough syrup

Infectious and inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract are characterized by inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity, pharynx, bronchi with edema and exudation. In these diseases, along with etiotropic therapy, pathogenetic therapy is carried out, aimed at the main mechanisms of pathogenesis and designed to block the corresponding mechanism of the development of the disease [1].

Colds are often accompanied by a cough. Cough is a protective reaction of the body, ensuring the removal of irritating agents from the respiratory tract and preventing airway obstruction. The cough reflex is caused by irritation of the receptors of the larynx, pharynx, trachea, bronchi. The cough act consists of an initial deep inhalation followed by a forced exhalation. At the beginning of exhalation, the glottis is closed, which leads to an increase in intrathoracic pressure. When the glottis opens, the air from the lungs exits at high speed through the trachea, throwing out the secret contained in the airways. The cough reflex has great reserve capacity, often the intensity and frequency of coughing exceed those necessary to remove the irritating agent. The cough can be productive – with a significant amount of sputum and dry, or unproductive – with a small amount of sputum.

A productive cough is physiologically protective and should not be suppressed unless it is dangerous, such as after surgery. Unproductive cough should be suppressed, but in cases where it is due to the formation of a thick, viscous secretion that is difficult to expectorate, mucolytic agents should be used.

Short-term attacks of coughing in colds are most often the result of secretion from the nasopharynx into the lower respiratory tract. This is the same cough mechanism in allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis and adenoiditis. Chronic unproductive cough can be observed with hypertrophy of the palatine tonsils, with pathological elongation of the uvula of the soft palate and polyposis of the nasal mucosa [4].

The most important causes of cough are infections of the upper respiratory tract, bronchitis and pneumonia, pleural diseases, neoplasms, chronic lung diseases (bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis, tuberculosis, etc.), when, along with specific treatment, the use of antitussives is necessary.

Among antitussives, drugs of peripheral action (affecting the afferent links of the cough reflex) and central action are distinguished. Centrally acting drugs are indicated mainly for the relief of dry, irritating cough [2].

Combination preparation COFEKS manufactured by Jenom Biotech (India) is a clear pink syrup with a pleasant taste, used for coughs and colds. 5 ml of syrup contains 10 mg of codeine phosphate, 4 mg of chlorphenamine maleate. The active substances of codeine phosphate and chlorphenamine maleate comply with the requirements of the British Pharmacopoeia.

Codeine phosphate, which is part of the syrup COFEX , is an opium alkaloid preparation of the phenanthrene series. Codeine phosphate is an opioid receptor agonist. By stimulating opiate receptors, it acts like morphine, reducing the excitability of the cough center in the medulla oblongata.

The analgesic effect of codeine phosphate is weaker than that of morphine. Codeine phosphate, to a lesser extent than morphine, depresses the respiratory center, weakens intestinal motility, but with prolonged use it can cause constipation [2]. Miosis when using codeine in therapeutic doses is mild, nausea and vomiting are rare.

By eliminating cough or reducing its severity, codeine phosphate reduces the discomfort associated with it [3].

Codeine phosphate is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration.

A pronounced antitussive effect is achieved after 2 hours and persists for 4-6 hours after administration. Codeine phosphate is rapidly distributed in tissues, mainly parenchymal organs (liver, spleen, kidneys), metabolized in the liver, excreted mainly in the urine (about 90% within 24 hours).

Chlorphenamine maleate, the second active component of the drug COFEX , is an antihistamine that has an M-anticholinergic effect. When taken orally, the maximum concentration in blood serum is reached after 2 hours. The half-life is 12-15 hours. Chlorphenamine metabolites are determined in the blood serum for at least 48 hours after ingestion. About 34% of chlorphenamine is excreted in the urine within 48 hours, 1% is excreted in the feces.

H ₁ receptor blockers eliminate the physiological effects of endogenous histamine (tissue edema, effect on blood vessels).

Antihistamines have long been used in the treatment of colds, since the role of histamine in their pathogenesis has been established [3].

Syrup COFEX has a complex effect on coughs, including colds. COFEX is used for dry debilitating cough in patients with allergic or infectious-inflammatory respiratory diseases: sinusitis, hay fever, acute bronchitis, tuberculosis, tropical eosinophilia (Weingarten’s syndrome).

Syrup COFEX adults are prescribed 1 teaspoon (5 ml) 4 times a day; children aged 6 years and over – 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) 4 times a day, 2-6 years old – 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) 4 times a day.

Do not exceed the recommended dose of the drug. With caution should be prescribed for benign prostatic hyperplasia, bronchial obstruction, diseases of the digestive tract, epilepsy, severe diseases of the cardiovascular system. In patients with impaired renal function, the elimination of codeine phosphate is slowed down, and therefore it is advisable to increase the intervals between doses of the drug. COFEX is not recommended for use during pregnancy and lactation.

Avoid drinking alcohol, driving vehicles and operating potentially dangerous machinery during the treatment period.

Syrup should be stored at temperatures up to 25 ° C, protected from light.

D.L. Kirik, Doctor of Medical Sciences
I.F. Polyakova, Candidate of Medical Sciences