Brofex TS

Indications

Dextromethorphan is used for short-term relief of a dry, tickly cough (a cough that does not bring up phlegm), such as a cough caused by a cold or throat irritation. It is found on its own or in combination cough and cold syrups.

How It Works

It acts on the cough centre in the brain and reduces the urge to cough. It does not treat the cause of the cough.

Dosage and Administration

Adults and children over 12: usually 10 to 20 mg every 4 hours, or 30 mg every 6 to 8 hours, and not more than 120 mg in 24 hours. Syrup strengths differ, so follow the product label or the doctor's advice and use the measuring cup or spoon provided. Children under 12: only as advised by a doctor; do not give to children under 6 unless a doctor prescribes it. Do not use for more than 7 days without medical advice.

Interactions

• Do not use with MAO inhibitors (such as Selegiline) or within 14 days of stopping them; this can cause a dangerous reaction.
• Fluoxetine, Paroxetine, Sertraline, Linezolid and Tramadol increase the risk of serotonin syndrome (see Side Effects). Fluoxetine, Paroxetine, Quinidine and Bupropion also raise dextromethorphan levels.
• Alcohol, sleeping pills and sedating antihistamines add to drowsiness.

Contraindications

Allergy to dextromethorphan, current or recent (within 14 days) use of MAO inhibitors, severe breathing failure, and children under 2 years.

Side Effects

Usually mild: drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, stomach upset and constipation.

Get urgent medical help for a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing), or for confusion, agitation, hallucinations, fast heartbeat, high fever, heavy sweating, shaking or muscle stiffness, which can be signs of serotonin syndrome, especially when taken with antidepressants.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Normal doses for a short time are not known to harm the baby, but ask a doctor before use, especially in the first three months. Avoid combination syrups that contain alcohol or many ingredients. During breastfeeding, short-term use at normal doses is usually considered acceptable; ask a doctor or pharmacist first.

Precautions and Warnings

• Not for a cough with a lot of phlegm, or a cough due to asthma, smoking or long-term lung disease, unless a doctor advises it.
• See a doctor if the cough lasts more than a week, keeps coming back, or comes with high fever, rash, chest pain, breathlessness or a lasting headache.
• It may cause drowsiness; take care when driving.
• Large doses are sometimes misused; keep it out of reach of children and teenagers.
• Make sure you are not taking two products that both contain dextromethorphan.

Overdose

Overdose can cause severe drowsiness or excitement, confusion, hallucinations, unsteady walking, fast heartbeat, vomiting and slowed breathing. Get emergency medical help at once.

Therapeutic Class

Cough suppressant (antitussive).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.