Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide/Benzocaine

 Action Suppresses cough by central action on cough center in medulla.

 Indications Temporary relief of minor sore throat; temporary reduction in cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation.

 Contraindications MAO inhibitor therapy or for 2 wk after stopping MAO inhibitor therapy; allergy to local anesthetics (eg, butacaine, procaine) or any component of this product.

 Route/Dosage

Cough-X Adults and children (at least 6 yr): PO 1 lozenge q 2 hr as needed (max, 12 lozenges/24 hr), or as directed by a physician.

Children (2 to 6 yr): PO 1 lozenge q 4 hr (max, 6 lozenges/24 hr), or as directed by a physician.

Tetra-Formula Adults and children (at least 6 yr): PO Dissolve 1 lozenge slowly in the mouth, do not chew. May be repeated q 4 hr or as directed by a physician.

 Interactions

MAO Inhibitors (eg, isocarboxazid): Dextromethorphan is contraindicated with MAO inhibitors.

 Lab Test Interferences None well documented.

 Adverse Reactions

CNS: Drowsiness; dizziness. GI: Nausea.

 Precautions

Pregnancy: Consult physician before use. Lactation: Consult physician before use.

 Administration/Storage

• Slowly dissolve lozenge in the mouth. Lozenges should not be chewed or swallowed whole.
• Give lozenge every 2 to 4 hr as prescribed.
• Store lozenges at controlled room temperature (59° to 86°F). Protect from moisture.

 Assessment/Interventions

• Obtain patient history, including drug history and any known allergies. Note history of allergy to local anesthetics and concurrent or recent use of MAO inhibitors or oral anticoagulants.
• Assess patient's response to therapy. Notify health care provider if symptoms (eg, cough, sore throat) persist in spite of therapy.

 Patient/Family Education

• Explain name, dose, action, and potential side effects of drug.
• Advise patient to take as directed on the package insert or as advised by their health care provider.
• Advise patient that if symptoms are not controlled not to increase the dose of medication or frequency of use but to inform their health care provider.
• Instruct patient to notify their health care professional if any of the following occur: cough persists for longer than 1 wk or tends to recur; severe sore throat persists for more than 2 days, or if cough or sore throat is accompanied by fever, persistent headache, rash, swelling, nausea, or vomiting.
• Advise women to notify physician if pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Caution patient to not take any prescription or OTC medications, or dietary supplements unless advised to do so by health care provider.