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Pseudoephedrine and Dextromethorphan
Pronunciation
U.S. Brand Names
Generic Available
Pharmacological Index
Use
Warnings/Precautions
Usual Dosage
Dental Health: Local Anesthetic/Vasoconstrictor Precautions
Dental Health: Effects on Dental Treatment
Dosage Forms

Pronunciation
(soo doe e FED rin & deks troe meth OR fan)

U.S. Brand Names
Drixoral® Cough & Congestion Liquid Caps [OTC]; Vicks® 44D Cough & Head Congestion; Vicks® 44 Non-Drowsy Cold & Cough Liqui-Caps [OTC]

Generic Available

Yes


Pharmacological Index

Antitussive/Decongestant


Use

Temporary symptomatic relief of nasal congestion due to common cold, upper respiratory allergies, and sinusitis; also promotes nasal or sinus drainage; symptomatic relief of coughs caused by minor viral upper respiratory tract infections or inhaled irritants; most effective for a chronic nonproductive cough


Warnings/Precautions

Research on chicken embryos exposed to concentrations of dextromethorphan relative to those typically taken by humans has shown to cause birth defects and fetal death; more study is needed, but it is suggested that pregnant women should be advised not to use dextromethorphan-containing medications


Usual Dosage

Oral: Adults: One capsule or 5-10 mL every 6 hours


Dental Health: Local Anesthetic/Vasoconstrictor Precautions

Use with caution since pseudoephedrine is a sympathomimetic amine which could interact with epinephrine to cause a pressor response


Dental Health: Effects on Dental Treatment

Up to 10% of patients could experience tachycardia, palpitations, and dry mouth; use vasoconstrictor with caution


Dosage Forms

Capsule: Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 60 mg and dextromethorphan hydrobromide 30 mg

Liquid: Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 20 mg and dextromethorphan hydrobromide 10 mg per 5 mL


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