Robitussin Dry Cough Medicine

 

What is Robitussin Dry Cough Medicine and what is it used for?

Robitussin Dry Cough Medicine is a dry cough syrup for the relief of persistent dry, irritant coughs. It contains dextromethorphan, a dextromethorphan cough suppressant that works on the cough reflex to reduce the urge to cough. Plus, it’s a sugar free cough medicine, which can be helpful if you’re avoiding sugar.

 

Who is it suitable for?

• Adults, the elderly, and children aged 12 years and over.
• Not for children under 12 years.

 

Active ingredient and ingredients (exact strengths)

Active ingredient:

• Dextromethorphan hydrobromide 7.5 mg per 5 ml (equivalent to 15 mg per 10 ml).

Other ingredients (excipients):
Glycerol, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium benzoate, disodium edetate, maltitol (E965), ethanol, citric acid anhydrous, amaranth (E123), caramel (E150), levomenthol, cherry/grenadine flavour, sorbitol solution 70%, sodium cyclamate, acesulfame potassium salt, purified water.

 

Important excipient notes:

• Contains sorbitol and maltitol (sources of fructose).
• Contains amaranth (E123) which may cause allergic reactions.
• Contains ethanol (alcohol): 219.3 mg per 10 ml dose.
• Contains sodium benzoate: 12.0 mg per 10 ml dose (relevant for newborn jaundice risk, even though this product is not for under-12s).

 

How to take (dose and administration)

For oral use only.

• Adults, the elderly and children over 12 years: Take 10 ml up to 4 times daily as required.
• Children under 12 years: Do not use.
• Use the dosing cup provided.
• Do not exceed the stated dose.

 

How long can you use it?

• You must contact a doctor if symptoms worsen or do not improve after 7 days.

 

Possible side effects (plain English)

Not everyone gets side effects, but they can happen.

 

Uncommon:

• Stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort
• Dizziness, drowsiness, feeling mentally “foggy” or confused

 

Rare but serious (STOP and seek urgent medical help):

• Allergic reaction: itchy rash, swelling of face/throat, breathing difficulty, fast heartbeat

 

Dependency, addiction and withdrawal (frequency unknown):

• Regular use, especially for a long time, can lead to addiction.
• Withdrawal symptoms after stopping can include restlessness, poor sleep, irritability, anxiety, palpitations, raised blood pressure, nausea, diarrhoea, shaking, sweating.

 

Warnings and precautions

Speak to a pharmacist or doctor before use if:

• Your cough has lasted a long time, or you have asthma/serious asthma attacks
• Your cough comes with fever, rash, or persistent headache
• You have liver problems or severe kidney problems
• You are or have ever been addicted to alcohol, opioids, medicines, or drugs, or have had withdrawal symptoms before

Also:

• Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine.
• Do not use with other cough and cold medicines unless advised (to avoid duplicating ingredients and side effects).

 

Do NOT take this medicine if:

• You are allergic to dextromethorphan or any ingredients
• You have a chest infection, worsening asthma, or severe breathing/respiratory problems
• You are taking (or have taken in the last 14 days):
  • MAOIs (for depression/Parkinson’s)
  • SSRIs (for depression/anxiety)
  • Any other medicines for depression, psychiatric/emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s

 

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking Robitussin Dry Cough Medicine.

 

Driving and using machines

This medicine can make you sleepy or dizzy. Don’t drive or use machinery until you know how it affects you. Driving while impaired by medicines can be an offence.

 

Interactions with other medicines

Do not take with the medicines listed under “Do NOT take” above.

Talk to a pharmacist or doctor before using if you take:

• Quinidine or amiodarone (heart rhythm medicines)
• Terbinafine (fungal infection treatment)
• Cinacalcet (parathyroid condition)
• Methadone
• Certain antidepressants or antipsychotics

 

Serious interaction warning: combining dextromethorphan with certain antidepressants/antipsychotics can cause severe reactions (agitation, hallucinations, coma, fever above 38°C, fast heart rate, unstable blood pressure, muscle stiffness, poor coordination, nausea/vomiting/diarrhoea). Seek urgent help if these occur.

 

When to consult a pharmacist or doctor

Get advice if:

• Your cough lasts more than 7 days
• You develop fever, rash, persistent headache, chest pain, wheeze, or breathlessness
• You have an ongoing medical condition (especially liver/kidney problems)
• You’re on regular medicines (especially mood/Parkinson’s medicines or heart rhythm treatments)
• You think you may be developing dependency or withdrawal symptoms

 

Red flags (get urgent medical help)

• Signs of a severe allergic reaction (swelling, breathing difficulty)
• Severe drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, agitation
• Fast heartbeat, fainting, seizures/convulsions
• Overdose symptoms: vomiting, uncontrolled muscle movements, severe sleepiness, disturbed consciousness, eye movement problems, breathing problems, coma

 

How to store

• Store below 25°C
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date on the carton

 

FAQs

Can I take Robitussin Dry Cough Medicine at the same time as night-time cold remedies?
Not unless a pharmacist says it’s appropriate. Many cough/cold products overlap and increase side effects.

Is this medicine suitable for a chesty (productive) cough?
It’s intended for dry, irritant coughs. If you’re bringing up mucus, get advice before using a cough suppressant.

What if I miss a dose?
Just take the next dose when needed. Don’t double up to make up for a missed dose.

Can this affect sleep?
It can cause drowsiness in some people, but it may also cause restlessness in others. If sleep is disrupted, stop and ask for advice.

Can I use it if I’m diabetic?
It’s described as sugar free cough medicine, but it contains sweeteners/sugar alcohols (like sorbitol/maltitol). If you need tailored advice, ask your pharmacist.