Antikof
Generic Name
dextromethorphan hydrobromide
Manufacturer
Generic Pharma Inc.
Country
Bangladesh
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Antikof is a cough suppressant medication used to relieve a dry, non-productive cough associated with colds, flu, or other respiratory conditions. It works by affecting the signals in the brain that trigger the cough reflex.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
15-30 mg every 4-8 hours as needed, not to exceed 120 mg in 24 hours.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, but caution with liver or kidney impairment.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment provided, use with caution and monitor.
How to Take
Oral administration. Measure liquid medicine carefully with a dosing spoon or cup. Do not exceed recommended dosage.
Mechanism of Action
Dextromethorphan acts centrally on the cough center in the medulla oblongata to elevate the cough threshold. It is an NMDA receptor antagonist and sigma-1 receptor agonist. It is structurally related to opioid analgesics but has no analgesic or addictive properties at antitussive doses.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
15-30 minutes
Excretion
Primarily excreted in the urine as unchanged drug and metabolites.
Half life
2-4 hours (for parent drug); 11 hours (for active metabolite dextrorphan)
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) to its active metabolite, dextrorphan.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to dextromethorphan or any component.
- Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors or within 14 days of stopping MAO inhibitors.
- Asthma exacerbation or chronic cough with excessive secretions.
Drug Interactions
MAO Inhibitors
Risk of serotonin syndrome (e.g., agitation, hyperthermia, rapid heart rate, severe changes in blood pressure, seizures, coma).
Antidepressants (e.g., Bupropion)
Increased dextromethorphan levels.
SSRIs (e.g., Fluoxetine, Paroxetine)
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome due to inhibition of CYP2D6.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C). Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, nystagmus, ataxia, respiratory depression, and in severe cases, serotonin syndrome. Treatment is supportive; naloxone may be used in severe cases to reverse CNS effects.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if clearly needed. Consult a doctor. Generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but consult a healthcare professional.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to dextromethorphan or any component.
- Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors or within 14 days of stopping MAO inhibitors.
- Asthma exacerbation or chronic cough with excessive secretions.
Drug Interactions
MAO Inhibitors
Risk of serotonin syndrome (e.g., agitation, hyperthermia, rapid heart rate, severe changes in blood pressure, seizures, coma).
Antidepressants (e.g., Bupropion)
Increased dextromethorphan levels.
SSRIs (e.g., Fluoxetine, Paroxetine)
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome due to inhibition of CYP2D6.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C). Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, nystagmus, ataxia, respiratory depression, and in severe cases, serotonin syndrome. Treatment is supportive; naloxone may be used in severe cases to reverse CNS effects.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if clearly needed. Consult a doctor. Generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but consult a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months
Availability
Pharmacies, supermarkets
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Expired
Clinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of dextromethorphan for cough suppression. Ongoing research explores its potential in other therapeutic areas, such as neurological disorders.
Lab Monitoring
- No specific routine lab monitoring required for typical antitussive use.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients to read the label carefully and not exceed the recommended dose.
- Be aware of potential drug interactions, especially with MAOIs and serotonergic drugs.
- Monitor for signs of abuse or misuse, particularly in adolescents.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not use for persistent or chronic cough (such as occurs with smoking, asthma, or emphysema) or if cough is accompanied by excessive phlegm unless directed by a doctor.
- Do not exceed recommended dose.
- If symptoms worsen or persist for more than 7 days, consult a doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Drink plenty of fluids to help thin mucus and soothe your throat.
- Avoid irritants like smoke and dust.
- Get adequate rest.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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