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Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide, Guaifenesin, Tannic Acid Oral suspension

An upper respiratory combination - It is used for the temporary relief of coughs

Generic Name: dextromethorphan-guaifenesin  |  Brand Name: Aquatab DM(obsolete)

What is this medicine?

DEXTROMETHORPHAN; GUAIFENESIN (dex troe meth OR fan, gwye FEN e sin) is a combination of a cough suppressant and expectorant. It is used for the temporary relief of coughs. This medicine is also used to loosen mucus.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Shake well before using. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure your dose. Household spoons are not accurate. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • other medicines for colds or allergy
  • medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Do not treat yourself for a cough for more than 1 week without consulting your doctor or health care professional. If you have a high fever, skin rash, lasting headache, or sore throat, see your doctor.

Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water daily while you are taking this medicine to help loosen mucus.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
  • breathing problems
  • confusion
  • excitement, nervousness, restlessness, or irritability

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • headache
  • stomach upset

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


Last Updated: April 17, 2009
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