Syrup
Tomephen 10 mg/5 ml Syrup
Generic: Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide
Manufacturer: Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Therapeutic class: Antitussive cough suppressant
What is Tomephen used for?
Tomephen 10 mg/5 ml syrup by Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd. is a cough suppressant medicine available in Bangladesh. It contains Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide and is mainly used for temporary relief of dry, irritating, non-productive cough.
What is Tomephen?
Tomephen 10 mg/5 ml syrup by Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd. is a cough suppressant medicine available in Bangladesh. It contains Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide and is mainly used for temporary relief of dry, irritating, non-productive cough.
Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide works on the cough centre in the brain to reduce the urge to cough. A key caution is that it should not be used with, or within 14 days of stopping, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) because of the risk of serious reactions.
Indications
- Temporary relief of dry, non-productive cough due to minor throat or airway irritation, such as cough associated with common cold.
- Relief of irritating cough where cough suppression is appropriate and advised by a healthcare professional.
Dosage & Administration
Adult dosing depends on the strength of the syrup and the specific product. For immediate-release Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide, commonly used adult regimens are divided doses taken every 4 to 8 hours, with a usual maximum total daily dose of 120 mg. Always follow the product label or the dose prescribed by the doctor, and do not exceed the recommended daily amount.
Side Effects
- Drowsiness, dizziness, or light-headedness.
- Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, or constipation.
- Headache.
- Rash or allergic reaction, rarely severe.
- Confusion, agitation, hallucinations, poor coordination, or excessive sleepiness, especially with overdose or misuse.
- Serotonin syndrome, a rare but serious reaction, especially when combined with serotonergic medicines; symptoms may include fever, sweating, tremor, diarrhoea, agitation, fast heartbeat, or muscle stiffness.
- Breathing difficulty or loss of consciousness may occur in severe overdose and needs emergency medical care.
Precautions & Warnings
Use caution in people with asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema/COPD, smoking-related cough, persistent or recurrent cough, cough with excessive phlegm, liver disease, a history of substance misuse, or when taking medicines that cause drowsiness or affect serotonin. Stop use and seek medical advice if cough lasts more than a few days, returns, or is accompanied by fever, rash, severe headache, chest pain, breathing difficulty, or thick/colored sputum. Use Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide under the guidance of a registered doctor or pharmacist.
Drug Interactions
- MAOIs such as phenelzine, tranylcypromine, isocarboxazid, selegiline, and rasagiline: do not use together or within 14 days due to risk of serious or fatal reactions.
- Serotonergic medicines, including SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, mirtazapine, trazodone, tramadol, triptans, lithium, linezolid, and methylene blue: increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
- Alcohol, sedatives, sleeping tablets, opioids, antihistamines, and other CNS depressants: may increase drowsiness, impaired coordination, and breathing-related risks.
- Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors such as fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine, and bupropion may increase Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide levels and side effects.
Contraindications
- Known allergy or hypersensitivity to Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide or any ingredient of the syrup.
- Current use of an MAOI, or use within the previous 14 days.
- Use in very young children or below the age stated on the product label unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.
Pregnancy & Lactation
During pregnancy or breastfeeding, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide should be used only when clearly needed and after advice from a doctor or pharmacist. Avoid self-medication, especially in the first trimester, near delivery, or when breastfeeding a premature or medically fragile infant.
Storage Conditions
Store the syrup at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of the reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date, and discard if the liquid changes color, smell, or appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tomephen used for?
Can I take Tomephen with antidepressants?
Will Tomephen make me sleepy?
When should I seek medical advice while using Tomephen?
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