What it means
An antitussivean-tee-TUS-ivA drug that reduces coughing.anti- againsttuss cough-ive doingFull entry that acts on the cough center in the brain. It is in many over-the-counter cough and cold products, often marked "DM". At normal doses side effects are mild, such as dizziness and drowsiness. In very high doses it is misused for its mind-altering effects. Taken with MAO inhibitors or some antidepressants, it can cause serotonin syndromesair-uh-TOH-nin SIN-drohmA drug reaction caused by too much serotonin activity in the nervous system.Full entry .
For the nurse
Teach the client to check labels for duplicate ingredients in combination products, to tell the provider about antidepressants, and to keep it away from teens who might misuse it.
At a glance
| Drug class | antitussive |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Delsym; in combinations such as Robitussin DM |
| Also written | Delsym |
Related terms
serotonin syndrome
A drug reaction caused by too much serotonin activity in the nervous system.
over-the-counter medication
A medicine that can be bought without a prescription.
antitussive
A drug that reduces coughing.