Composition
Metodex Syrup: Each 5 ml syrup contains Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide BP equivalent to Dextromethorphan 10 mg.
Pharmacology
Metodex (Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide) Syrup is a safe, effective, non-narcotic antitussive agent. Metodex is a cough suppressant which has a central action on the cough centre in the medulla. Although structurally related to morphine, Metodex has no analgesic properties. Metodex is rapidly absorbed from the Gl tract and exerts its effect in 15-30 minutes after oral administration. The duration of action is approximately 3-6 hours with conventional dose. Metodex is extensively metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine as unchanged Dextromethorphan and demethylated metabolites including Dextrophan which has some cough suppressant activity. Urinary excretion of parent drug and metabolites accounts for up to 50% of the ingested dose over 24 hour. About 8% of the dose is excreted unchanged in urine over the first 6 hours.
Indication
- Chronic dry cough/ unproductive cough
- Acute dry cough which is interferring with normal function or sleep
Dosage and Administration
Adults: 10 – 20 mg every 4 hours or 30 mg every 6 – 8 hours to a usual maximum of 120 mg daily.
Children (6-12 years): 5-15 mg every 4- 8 hours to a maximum of 60 mg daily.
Children (2 – 6 years): 2.5 – 5 mg every 4 hours or 7.5 mg every 6 – 8 hours to a maximum of 30 mg daily.
Contraindication
Concomitant use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors is contraindicated. Dextromethorphan is extensively metabolized in the liver and should be prescribed with caution to patients with liver disease.
Warning and Precaution
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).
Side Effects
Adverse effects with Dextromethorphan are rare, but nausea and dizziness sometimes may occur. The drug produces no analgesia or addiction and little or no CNS depression. Excitation, confusion and respiratory depression may occur after over dosage.
Use in Pregnancy & Lactation
Adequate and well-controlled studies in human have not been done. Therefore, Dextromethorphan should be avoided in the first three months of pregnancy. It is not known whether dextromethorphan passes into breast milk, so nursing mothers should be advised not to take the medicine.
Storage
Store below 300C, protect from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
Packaging
Each bottle contains 100 ml syrup.
