Poly-tussin DM is a cough medicine that is used to relieve cough and chest congestion caused by the common cold, bronchitis, and other respiratory tract infections. It contains the active ingredients dextromethorphan and guaifenesin, which work together to thin mucus, loosen phlegm, and suppress coughing.
What are the active ingredients in poly-tussin DM?
Poly-tussin DM contains two active ingredients:
- Dextromethorphan: This is a cough suppressant that works by reducing activity in the part of the brain that triggers cough reflex. It helps control coughs without affecting mucus production.
- Guaifenesin: This is an expectorant that helps thin mucus secretions and loosen phlegm. It makes coughs more productive in bringing up mucus.
By combining these two ingredients, poly-tussin DM both loosens mucus and suppresses the urge to cough. This provides relief for cough and congestion symptoms.
What is poly-tussin DM used for?
Poly-tussin DM is used to relieve symptoms of:
- Cough
- Chest congestion
- Excess or thick mucus
- Stuffy nose
- Bronchitis
- Common cold
- Flu
- Other respiratory infections
It can provide temporary relief of coughs and congestion caused by these conditions. The dextromethorphan suppresses the urge to cough while the guaifenesin thins mucus secretions in the airways. This combination can help control coughs and loosen phlegm to aid productive coughs.
How does poly-tussin DM work?
Poly-tussin DM works in two ways:
- The dextromethorphan acts on the brain to decrease activity in the cough center. This reduces the urge to cough.
- The guaifenesin increases the flow of water into the bronchial tubes. This thins the mucus secretions, loosens phlegm, and lubricates the airways.
By suppressing the cough reflex and thinning mucus, the ingredients provide temporary relief from coughing and congestion. The expectorant action also allows coughs to be more productive in clearing mucus from the airways.
What are the side effects of poly-tussin DM?
Poly-tussin DM is generally well tolerated when used as directed. However, possible side effects can include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach upset
- Rash
Dextromethorphan can sometimes cause drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting or stomach upset. Guaifenesin is less likely to cause side effects but may occasionally result in rash or stomach discomfort.
Who should not take poly-tussin DM?
Poly-tussin DM should not be used by people who are:
- Younger than 4 years old
- Allergic to dextromethorphan or guaifenesin
- Taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) – antidepressant medications
- Have chronic cough such as occurs with smoking, emphysema, asthma
Children under 4 should not use cough suppressants like dextromethorphan without medical supervision. People with chronic coughs like those caused by asthma or emphysema should see their doctor before using cough medicines containing dextromethorphan.
What are the drug interactions with poly-tussin DM?
Poly-tussin DM can interact with other medications, including:
- Antidepressants, particularly MAOIs – dextromethorphan should not be combined with these
- CNS depressants like benzodiazepines, opioids, alcohol – may increase drowsiness and dizziness
- Other cough and cold medications – avoid doubling up due to risk of overdose
Make sure your doctor is aware of all medications you are taking before starting poly-tussin DM. Avoid alcohol while taking it as it can worsen side effects like drowsiness. Do not combine with other cough and cold products containing the same active ingredients.
What is the proper dosage for poly-tussin DM?
The recommended dosage depends on the patient’s age:
- Children 4-5 years: 5 mL every 4 hours as needed
- Children 6-11 years: 10 mL every 4 hours as needed
- Adults and children over 12: 10-20 mL every 4 hours as needed
Do not exceed 6 doses (4-5 years old) or 4 doses (6+ years old) in 24 hours. Carefully follow the dosage directions based on age and do not give more than prescribed. Measure liquid doses carefully using the measuring cup or syringe provided.
How long does it take for poly-tussin DM to work?
Poly-tussin DM typically begins working within 30-60 minutes after taking a dose. The effects provide temporary relief of cough and chest congestion for about 4-6 hours. If cough or congestion symptoms continue after this time, an additional dose may be taken as directed on the label.
You may need to take poly-tussin DM for a few days for maximum relief as it treats the symptoms but does not cure the underlying cause. Do not take it for more than a week unless directed by your doctor. See a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.
Is poly-tussin DM safe for diabetes?
Poly-tussin DM is generally considered safe for people with diabetes when used occasionally and according to dosage directions. It should have minimal effects on blood sugar levels.
However, it does contain sugar, so people with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar closely to ensure it remains in a healthy range. Speak to your doctor before using if you have diabetes or other medical conditions.
Can you take poly-tussin DM while pregnant?
Poly-tussin DM has not been proven completely safe for use during pregnancy. Pregnant women should speak with their doctor before using this medication.
Dextromethorphan may be acceptable for short-term use in pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. But guaifenesin has not been studied as extensively, so caution is advised.
Pregnant women should always get medical guidance before taking any medications, including over-the-counter cough and cold medicines.
Does poly-tussin DM make you drowsy?
Yes, one of the most common side effects of poly-tussin DM is drowsiness. This is caused by the dextromethorphan acting on the brain to suppress the cough reflex.
The drowsiness is usually mild and temporary, but it can impair coordination and reaction time. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
To reduce drowsiness, take your dose during the daytime and avoid combining with alcohol or other sedating medications or supplements. The drowsiness tends to improve as your body adjusts to the medication over a few days.
Can you take poly-tussin DM while breastfeeding?
Poly-tussin DM has not been proven completely safe for use while breastfeeding. The ingredients can pass into breast milk and potentially cause side effects in the nursing infant.
Breastfeeding women should consult their doctor regarding use of poly-tussin DM. Safer alternative remedies may be recommended to relieve cough and congestion symptoms.
If use is necessary, take the lowest effective dose and watch the baby for drowsiness, adequate feeding, and other possible side effects.
Is poly-tussin DM addictive?
Poly-tussin DM is not considered habit forming when used appropriately as directed for temporary relief of cough and chest congestion.
However, the dextromethorphan component can be abused in higher than recommended doses. This may potentially lead to psychological dependence with chronic recreational use.
Carefully follow the dosage directions and do not exceed the recommended amount per day. Only use for a week or less unless advised by your doctor. Discontinue use if cough lasts more than 7 days or comes back, or if symptoms worsen or persist.
Can you take too much poly-tussin DM?
Yes, it is possible to overdose on poly-tussin DM if you take more than the recommended dosage. Symptoms of overdose can include:
- Extreme drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rapid heartbeat
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- Coma
An overdose can be fatal. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect an overdose. Avoid combining with alcohol or medications that can cause drowsiness or slow breathing.
What should you avoid while taking poly-tussin DM?
Avoid the following while using poly-tussin DM:
- Driving or operating heavy machinery – can cause drowsiness
- Drinking alcohol – increases drowsiness
- Taking other cough/cold medications – risk of overdose due to duplication of ingredients
Avoid decisions or activities requiring alertness if the medication makes you drowsy. Do not drink alcohol or take medications containing dextromethorphan or guaifenesin while taking poly-tussin DM.
What are some alternatives to poly-tussin DM?
Some alternatives for relieving cough and chest congestion include:
- Cough drops or hard candy – coat and soothe throat
- Steam inhalation – loosen mucus so coughs are productive
- Cough suppressants like dextromethorphan alone – control coughing
- Expectorants like guaifenesin alone – thin mucus
- Antihistamines like diphenhydramine – reduce cough from post-nasal drip
- Nasal decongestant sprays or oral decongestants like pseudoephedrine – relieve stuffy nose
- Saline nasal spray – cleanse and moisturize nasal passages
- Honey – coat and soothe throat, some evidence it helps cough
For chronic coughs, prescription medications may be needed. See your doctor if symptoms persist more than 1-2 weeks or get worse despite home treatment.
Key points about poly-tussin DM
- Combination drug containing dextromethorphan and guaifenesin
- Provides temporary relief of cough and chest congestion
- Can cause side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, nausea
- Avoid alcohol and other sedating medications when taking it
- Use caution if pregnant or breastfeeding
- See a doctor if cough lasts more than 1 week or comes back
- Discontinue use if side effects develop or symptoms worsen
Conclusion
Poly-tussin DM can provide effective short-term relief for cough and chest congestion caused by conditions like colds, flu, and bronchitis. It combines dextromethorphan to suppress the cough reflex and guaifenesin to thin mucus. Use carefully following dosage directions and avoid alcohol or operating machinery if it makes you drowsy.
See a doctor if your cough persists longer than 1 week or comes back after stopping the medication. Be cautious using it if pregnant or breastfeeding, and advise your doctor of any other medications you take. When used occasionally as directed, poly-tussin DM can safely provide temporary relief of cough and congestion symptoms.
