How to Take Robitussin DM: Side Effects, Dosage
How to take Robitussin DM: dosing guidelines, common side effects, and precautions for cough relief.
Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
Reviewed by:
Updated Feb, 15
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Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.
How to Take Robitussin DM
How to Take Robitussin DM
Per OTC labeling, Robitussin DM is taken as a liquid. The following dosing information is from the product label.
- Adults and children 12+ years: Per OTC labeling, 10 mL (2 teaspoons) every 4 hours as needed. Do not exceed 60 mL in 24 hours.
- Children 6–11 years: Per OTC labeling, 5 mL (1 teaspoon) every 4 hours as needed. Do not exceed 30 mL in 24 hours.
- Children under 6 years: Per OTC labeling, do not use unless specifically directed by a clinician.
How to measure: Use the dosing cup or an oral medication syringe for accuracy. Kitchen teaspoons are unreliable.
How to take it: Swallow the liquid slowly; you may take it with or without food.
Per OTC labeling, adequate fluid intake throughout the day may help guaifenesin work more effectively, unless you are on fluid restrictions.
Per OTC labeling, if you miss a dose: take it when you remember, but skip it if you are close to the next dose. Do not double up.
Per OTC labeling, when to stop: use only as needed for cough and chest congestion. If symptoms last more than 7 days or are accompanied by fever, consult a clinician.
Warnings Before Taking Robitussin DM
Per OTC labeling, avoid if you use MAO inhibitors or took them within 14 days.
Per OTC labeling, ask your doctor if you have asthma, COPD, or chronic cough.
Per OTC labeling, use caution with liver problems or heavy alcohol use.
Per OTC labeling, check with your clinician if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other sedating medicines.
Robitussin DM Side Effects
Common
Mild
Drowsiness
Per OTC labeling, dextromethorphan may cause drowsiness. This effect may be stronger if taken with other sedating medicines. Avoid driving or operating machinery if drowsiness occurs.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
4–6 hours
Common
Mild
Dizziness
Per OTC labeling, some users may experience lightheadedness or dizziness. Avoid driving until you know how the medication affects you.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–3 hours
Occasional
Mild
Nausea
Per OTC labeling, Robitussin DM can occasionally cause nausea. Taking it with a small snack may help reduce this effect.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
30–90 minutes
Occasional
Mild
Upset Stomach
Per OTC labeling, mild abdominal discomfort may occur. This generally improves as the dose wears off.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–3 hours
Common
Mild
Dry Mouth
Per OTC labeling, a temporary dry or sticky feeling in the mouth may occur. Sipping water typically relieves this effect.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–2 hours
Rare
Mild
Nervousness or Restlessness
Per OTC labeling, a small number of people may feel restlessness or nervousness. If this effect is significant or persistent, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
30–60 minutes
Contact Us for a Personalized Care Plan
Have questions about compounding? Contact Voshell's Pharmacy — we prepare patient-specific medications pursuant to valid prescriptions from your licensed prescriber.
What If You Forgot to Take Robitussin DM
What If You Forgot to Take Robitussin DM?
Per OTC labeling, if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, as long as it is not too close to your next planned dose. If it is almost time for the next one, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
Per OTC labeling, if you are using it only as needed for cough, take your next dose when symptoms call for it.
What If You Took Too Much Robitussin DM
What If You Took Too Much Robitussin DM?
Contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 immediately. For children or if the person is unconscious, call 911 or seek emergency medical care at once. Dextromethorphan toxicity can cause confusion, rapid heartbeat, and seizures at excessive doses.
- Do not take any additional doses until you have spoken with Poison Control or a clinician.
- If symptoms such as marked drowsiness, confusion, rapid heartbeat, or seizures occur, seek emergency medical care immediately.
- Keep this and all medications out of reach of children.
How Much Does Robitussin DM Cost
How Much Does Robitussin DM Cost With Insurance?
Robitussin DM is an over-the-counter medication. Most insurance plans do not cover OTC products, and coverage can vary by plan. Contact your insurance provider or pharmacy for your specific coverage information and any applicable discounts.
Pricing information is subject to change. Contact your pharmacy or insurance plan for current pricing.
How Much Does Robitussin DM Cost without Insurance
Cost of Robitussin DM Without Insurance
Robitussin DM is sold over the counter. Prices vary by store, bottle size, and formulation. Contact your local pharmacy or check retailer websites for current pricing on standard and maximum-strength formulations.
Pricing information is subject to change. Contact your pharmacy for current pricing.
Resources:
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682492.html
https://www.drugs.com/mtm/dextromethorphan-and-guaifenesin.html
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/dextromethorphan-information
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/dextromethorphan-and-guaifenesin-oral-route/description/drg-20062857
