Tomephen(Dextromethorphan)
Therapeutic Group: Respiratory
Presentation
Tomephen Syrup: Each 5 ml of syrup contains Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide BP 10 mg.
Description
Dextromethorphan is the d-isomer of the codeine analog of levorphanol, but does not have any opiate-like effects. It is a non-narcotic antitussive. Its cough suppressant action is due to a central action on the cough center in the medulla. Dextromethorphan does not induce tolerance, and has no potential for addiction like opiates.
Indications
Dextromethorphan is used to relieve dry cough caused by a cold, flu or other conditions.
Dosage & Administration
Tomephen is an orally administered syrup.
Adults (>12 years of age): 10-20 mg (1-2 teaspoonful) every 4 hours, or 30 mg (3 teaspoonful) every 6-8 hours. Do not exceed 120 mg (12 teaspoonful) in 24 hours.
Children
6 to 12 years of age: 5-10 mg (1/2-1 teaspoonful) every 4 hours, or 15 mg (11/2 teaspoonful) every 6-8 hours. Do not exceed 60 mg (6 teaspoonful) in 24 hours.
2 to 6 years of age: 2.5-5 mg (1/4-1/2 teaspoonful) every 4 hours, or 7.5 mg (3/4 teaspoonful) every 6-8 hours. Do not exceed 30 mg (3 teaspoonful) in 24 hours.
<2 years of age: Use only as directed by the physician.
Side Effects
Adverse effects with Dextromethorphan appear to be rare and may include dizziness and gastrointestinal disturbances.
Precautions
Do not use Dextromethorphan to control a cough that is associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema, or a cough that is productive (produces sputum or phlegm).
Use in Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Adequate and well-controlled studies in human have not been done. However, Dextromethorphan has not been reported to cause birth defects.
Lactation: It is not known whether dextromethorphan passes into breast milk. However, Dextromethorphan has not been reported to cause problems in nursing babies.
Drug Interaction
The following medicines should be taken carefully while concomitantly use with Dextromethorphan: Amiodarone, Fluoexetine, Quinidine, CNS depressants and Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors.
Over Dose
Seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of a Dextromethorphan overdose include slurred speech, restlessness, a feeling of poor coordination, difficulty in breathing, and seizures.
Storage
Do not store above 30C. Keep away from light and out of the reach of children.
Commercial Pack
Tomephen Syrup: Each box contains a bottle of 100 ml syrup and a measuring cup.