Drug reference
dextromethorphan
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Respiratory (Antitussive)
Mechanism of action
Acts on cough center in medulla; decreases sensitivity of cough receptors and interrupts cough impulse transmission. Derivative of levorphanol.
Common side effects
- Constipation
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
Contraindications
- Concurrent nonselective MAO inhibitors: Serotonin syndrome
Known interactions (5)
- dextromethorphan + linezolid Contraindicated
- dextromethorphan + phenelzine Contraindicated
- dextromethorphan + selegiline Contraindicated
- dextromethorphan + duloxetine Major
- Cimetidine + dextromethorphan Moderate
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is dextromethorphan?
dextromethorphan belongs to: Respiratory.
How does dextromethorphan work?
Acts on cough center in medulla; decreases sensitivity of cough receptors and interrupts cough impulse transmission. Derivative of levorphanol.
What are the common side effects of dextromethorphan?
Constipation, Drowsiness, Nausea
Which drugs interact with dextromethorphan?
linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, duloxetine, Cimetidine
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
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