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Dextromethorphan Dosage Table
| Dextromethorphan Dosage Table |
| Child's weight more than (pounds) |
16 |
32 |
48 |
64 |
80 |
96 |
130 |
lbs |
| Total amount (mg) |
2.5 |
5 |
7.5 |
10 |
12.5 |
15 |
20 |
mg |
| Liquid 5 mg/5 ml (tsp) |
½ |
1 |
1½ |
2 |
2½ |
3 |
-- |
tsp |
| Liquid 7.5 mg/5 ml (tsp) |
-- |
-- |
1 |
1 |
1½ |
2 |
3 |
tsp |
| Liquid 10 mg/5 ml (tsp) |
-- |
-- |
-- |
1 |
1 |
1½ |
2 |
tsp |
Indication: Cough suppressant.
Table Notes:
- AGE LIMIT: Don’t use under 2 years of age. Avoid multi-ingredient products in children < 6 years of age (Reason: AAP recommendations 10/2007 and cough is a protective reflex).
- DOSAGE: Determine by finding child's weight in the top row of the dosage table. Dextromethrophan (DM) is present in most cough syrups.
- ADULT DOSE: 20 mg
- FREQUENCY: Repeat every 6-8 hours as needed
Dextromethorphan Cough Medicines For Cough
- The most common cough suppressant in OTC cough medications is dextromethorphan. Usually the letters "DM" appear in the name. An example is Robitussin DM.
- Some recent research (Kelly 2004) suggests that dextromethorphan is no better than placebo at reducing the severity and frequency of coughing.
- Cough drops can often be substituted for cough syrups after age 6. While some would consider them a placebo similar to cough medicines, they may actually reduce coughing by soothing an irritated throat. In addition they have the advantage of portability. Cough drops with DM are available but probably not worth the added expense.
- It is important to note that dextromethorphan has become a drug of abuse. This problem has been seen most commonly in the adolescent population. Overdose symptoms can range from giggling, euphoria, to hallucinations or coma.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.
Author and Senior Reviewer: Barton D. Schmitt, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 8/1/2007
Last Revised: 8/24/2007
Content Set: Pediatric HouseCalls Online
Copyright 1994-2007 Barton D. Schmitt, M.D.
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