Dextromethorphan is a generic over-the-counter (OTC) drug that’s prescribed to treat dry cough. Dextromethorphan’s cost may depend on factors such as the form you take, the pharmacy you purchase it from, and your dosage.

The price you pay for dextromethorphan can vary. Your cost may depend on the form you take (oral capsules or liquid suspension), and the amount of dextromethorphan you purchase.

To find out how much you’ll pay for dextromethorphan, talk with your pharmacist.

Dextromethorphan is a generic drug. A generic contains an exact copy of the active drug in a brand-name medication. A generic is considered just as safe and effective as the original drug but tends to cost less.

Dextromethorphan comes in brand-name versions called Delsym and Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels. To find out how the costs of these brand-name drugs and dextromethorphan compare, check with your local pharmacy.

If you’re interested in taking Delsym or Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels instead of dextromethorphan, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. You can also read this article to learn more about differences in brand and generic medications.

Why is there such a cost difference between brand-name drugs and generics?

Years of research and testing are needed to ensure that brand-name drugs are safe and effective. This testing can make the drugs expensive. The manufacturer of a brand-name drug can sell the drug exclusively for up to 20 years. After that, other drugmakers can create generic versions. This competition in the market can lead to lower costs for generics. And because generics have the same active ingredients as brand-name drugs, they don’t need to be studied again. This can also lead to lower generic costs.

Dextromethorphan is an OTC product and isn’t typically covered by insurance. Your cost may depend on factors such as the pharmacy you buy it from, the form of the drug you take, and the amount you purchase. You may want to check with a few pharmacies for the best price on dextromethorphan.

If you have questions about how to pay for dextromethorphan, talk with your pharmacist.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.