Drikof Syrup

Introduction

Drikof Syrup 10 mg/5 ml (DXM) is an antitussive drug which is used to treat coughs. It is an opioid derivative and is usually sold in single ingredient preparations as well as in combination with other ingredients like decongestants, antihistamines, analgesics, expectorants, and anti-nausea drugs. DXM is available in different forms such as tablets, capsules, liquid syrups, and powder for oral or inhaled uses.

Uses for

Drikof Syrup 10 mg/5 ml is primarily used to treat coughs due to minor throat and bronchial irritations such as those caused by colds, inhaled irritants, or allergies. It is also used to suppress dry, hacking coughs resulting from smoking or breathing in noxious fumes. Additionally, it can be used in children to prevent and treat croup.

Brand Name	Drikof
Type	Syrup
Weight	10 mg/5 ml
Generic	Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide
Manufacturer	Chemist Laboratories Ltd.
Available in	English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

DXM works by activating opioid receptors in the brain. This activation of opioid receptors results in an increase in pain relief and anti-nausea effects. Additionally, DXM blocks the transmission of certain cough signals in the brain, thus suppressing the coughing reflex.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

The effects of DXM usually begin within 15 to 30 minutes after ingestion and should last for 4 to 6 hours.

Absorption

DXM is well absorbed and rapidly distributed throughout the body. It is metabolized by the liver before being eliminated in the urine.

Route of Elimination

The primary route of elimination for DXM is through the kidneys. It is eliminated in the urine as metabolites, with only 0.5-2% of the drug remaining in its unchanged form.

Dosage

Adults and Children over 12 years: 15 to 30 mg three to four times per day. However, 60 mg doses up to four times per day have been used without increased side effects.

Children between 6 and 12 years: 5-15 mg up to four times per day.

Children between 2 and 6 years: 2.5-5 mg up to four times per day. The recommended dosage of DXM for adults is 10 mg to 20 mg three times a day. For children, the dose is proportional to the patient’s weight: 5 mg/kg/day in three divided doses. For toddlers under 1 year of age, the dose is 2.5 mg/kg/day in three divided doses.

Administration

DXM is to be taken orally. It can be taken with or without food. The liquid form of DXM should be shaken well before measuring out the correct dose.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of DXM include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, and headache. It may also cause difficulty urinating, insomnia, flushing, rapid heart rate, and confusion.

Toxicity

If taken at a higher than recommended dose, DXM can cause seizures, hallucinations, depression, liver damage, and loss of coordination. Additionally, large doses of DXM can result in impaired judgment, which can lead to accidental injury or death.

Precautions

It is important to exercise caution when taking DXM, as it can cause serious side effects. Before starting the medication, it is important to discuss the patient’s medical history with a healthcare professional. Patients should not drive or operate machinery while taking DXM as the effects can impair mental and physical performance.

Interaction

DXM can interact with other medications, including opioids, benzodiazepines, and alcohol. Alcohol and other medications that can cause drowsiness or impairment should be avoided while taking DXM.

Disease Interaction

DXM can interact with certain medical conditions, such as nervous system depression, asthma, glaucoma, heart or liver disease, seizure disorders, and kidney disease. Before taking DXM, it is important to inform a healthcare professional of any pre-existing medical conditions.

Drug Interaction

DXM can interact with the following medications: opioid analgesics, benzodiazepines, anticholinergics, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, and alcohol.

Food Interactions

It is important to avoid drinking alcohol while taking DXM as it can increase the risk of side effects and toxicity.

Pregnancy Use

DXM should not be used during pregnancy as it may cause harm to an unborn baby.

Lactation Use

DXM has not been evaluated in breastfeeding women, and therefore should not be used while breastfeeding.

Acute Overdose

Signs and symptoms of an acute overdose may include confusion, excitability, seizure, pupil dilation, hypotension, coma, and respiratory depression. If an overdose is suspected, medical attention should be sought immediately.

Contraindication

DXM is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to the active ingredient or any other components of the medication. It should also not be taken by people who have recently had a head or brain injury, shock, or a stroke.

Use Direction

DXM should be taken orally. It can be taken with or without food. The liquid form of DXM should be shaken well before measuring out the correct dose. It is important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer or healthcare professional carefully.