DELSYM
Ingredients: per 5 ml:
- Dextromethorphan 30mg (extended release cough suppressant)
The Dextromethorphan (DM for short) is a cough suppressant. It acts by blocking the
cough reflex center in the brain. It will offer temporary relief (a few hours) to that nagging cough
caused by a "tickle" in the throat. DELSYM is different than other cough suppressants because
it is an extended release suspension designed to last for 12 hours.
WHEN TO USE
Frequent cough, no runny nose or nasal congestion. I use this type of medication for
dry coughs especially at night if the cough prevents my child from going to sleep or
staying asleep. Suppressing the cough will usually help your child get some much-needed rest for a few
hours. Daytime coughs usually don't bother a child and I only use a cough medication during the day if
the cough is interfering with baby's eating, napping and playing. If your child's cough sounds very moist
like he's coughing on secretions and there is a lot of mucous in the nose, then I will use a "multi-
symptom" combination of decongestant, antihistamine and cough suppressant. In this case it will
also be important to follow the non-medical cold treatments as
well.
SAFETY/SIDE EFFECTS
It is safe to use in children 12 months and older for upper respiratory illness (such as colds
and sinus infections). If your child has a lower respiratory tract illness (like pneumonia, bronchiolitis or
asthma) you should ask your physician before using cold or cough remedies. Side effects of
nausea, dizziness, and drowsiness infrequently occur with DM-containing cough syrups.
DOSING CHART
Dose every 12 hours
| <12 months |
Not recommended |
| 12-23 months |
1.25 ml (¼ tsp) |
| 2-5 years |
2.5 ml (½ tsp) |
| 6-12 years |
5ml (1 tsp) |
| >12 years (>95lbs) |
10ml (2 tsp) |
|