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Dextromethorphan Dosage

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 21, 2023.

Applies to the following strengths: 7.5 mg/0.8 mL; 7.5 mg/5 mL; 10 mg/5 mL; 15 mg/5 mL; 15 mg; 5 mg; 30 mg/5 mL; 7.5 mg; 12.5 mg/5 mL; 2.5 mg; hydrobromide; 20 mg/15 mL; 5 mg/5 mL; 3.5 mg/5 mL; 15 mg/15 mL; 10 mg; 30 mg

Usual Adult Dose for:

Usual Pediatric Dose for:

Additional dosage information:

Usual Adult Dose for Cough

Immediate-release: 10 to 20 mg orally every 4 hours or 30 mg orally ever 6 to 8 hours
Extended-release: 60 mg orally every 12 hours
Maximum dose: 120 mg in 24 hours

Use: For the temporary relief of cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation as may occur with the common cold or inhaled irritants.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Cough

Under 4 years: Not recommended

4 to 6 years:
Immediate-release: 2.5 to 5 mg orally every 4 hours or 7.5 mg orally every 6 to 8 hours
Extended-release: 15 mg orally every 12 hours
Maximum dose: 30 mg in 24 hours

6 to 12 years:
Immediate-release: 5 to 10 mg orally every 4 hours or 15 mg orally every 6 to 8 hours
Extended-release: 30 mg every 12 hours
Maximum dose: 60 mg in 24 hours

12 years or older:
Immediate-release: 10 to 20 mg orally every 4 hours or 30 mg orally ever 6 to 8 hours
Extended-release: 60 mg orally every 12 hours
Maximum dose: 120 mg in 24 hours

Comments:


Use: For the temporary relief of cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation as may occur with the common cold or inhaled irritants.

Renal Dose Adjustments

No adjustment recommended

Liver Dose Adjustments

Use with caution; this drug undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism

Precautions

In 2008, manufacturers of over-the-counter (OTC) pediatric cough and cold products, in consultation with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), recommended changes to product labeling in children. The new product labeling states "Do not use in children under 4 years of age."

Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 2 years.

Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.

Dialysis

Data not available

Other Comments

Administration advice:


Follow label instructions:

Storage requirements:

General:

Patient advice:

Frequently asked questions

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.