Why is this medication prescribed?

Dex-Tuss is typically prescribed to relieve coughing caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation due to the common cold, flu, or other respiratory tract infections. It contains two active ingredients:

• Codeine: This is an opioid cough suppressant that works in the brain to help decrease the urge to cough.
• Guaifenesin: This is an expectorant that helps to thin and loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear the air passages.

How should this medicine be used?

Dex-Tuss should be used exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider or as directed on the medication label. Here’s a general guideline for using Dex-Tuss:

• Dosage: Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The dosage may vary depending on your age, weight, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not take more than the recommended dose or take it more frequently than prescribed.
• Administration: Dex-Tuss is usually taken orally with a full glass of water. You can take it with or without food. Shake the liquid form of the medication well before measuring a dose. Use a proper measuring device, such as a medication spoon or cup, to ensure accurate dosage.
• Frequency: Take Dex-Tuss as needed for cough relief, typically every 4 to 6 hours. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or frequency of administration unless instructed by your doctor.
• Duration: Use Dex-Tuss for the shortest duration necessary to relieve your symptoms. Do not use it for longer than recommended without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Avoid Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages while taking Dex-Tuss, as alcohol can increase the risk of side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty breathing.
• Storage: Store Dex-Tuss at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Follow-up: If your symptoms persist or worsen despite using Dex-Tuss, or if you experience any concerning side effects, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

Remember, Dex-Tuss contains codeine, which is an opioid medication. It should be used cautiously and only as prescribed due to the potential for misuse, addiction, and serious side effects. Be sure to discuss any concerns or questions about Dex-Tuss with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other uses for this medicine

Some potential off-label uses for Dex-Tuss might include:

• Chronic cough: Dex-Tuss may be prescribed for persistent cough due to conditions like chronic bronchitis or smoker’s cough.
• Bronchitis: It may be used to alleviate coughing associated with acute or chronic bronchitis.
• Pneumonia: Dex-Tuss might be prescribed to help relieve coughing in individuals with pneumonia.
• Postoperative cough: In some cases, Dex-Tuss may be used to suppress coughing after certain surgical procedures.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions to follow when using Dex-Tuss:

• Medical history: Before taking Dex-Tuss, inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially if you have a history of respiratory problems, asthma, liver or kidney disease, alcohol or drug abuse, mental health disorders, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Allergies: Tell your doctor if you have any allergies to codeine, guaifenesin, or any other medications. Dex-Tuss may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
• Interactions: Dex-Tuss may interact with other medications, including certain antidepressants, antihistamines, muscle relaxants, and sedatives. Inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Driving and operating machinery: Dex-Tuss may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
• Avoid alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Dex-Tuss, as it can increase the risk of side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty breathing.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before taking Dex-Tuss. It’s essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before using this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Overdose: Seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center if you suspect an overdose of Dex-Tuss. Symptoms of overdose may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, shallow breathing, slow heartbeat, fainting, or coma.

By following these precautions and guidelines, you can use Dex-Tuss safely and effectively under the supervision of your healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with Dex-Tuss. However, it’s essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, which can help thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to cough up. Additionally, consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support overall respiratory health and aid in recovery from respiratory infections.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Dex-Tuss, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. Taking too much Dex-Tuss can increase the risk of side effects. If you are unsure about what to do, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for advice.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Dex-Tuss, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Dex-Tuss may include:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Headache
• Blurred vision
• Dry mouth or throat
• Loss of appetite

These side effects are typically mild and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider.

In some cases, Dex-Tuss can cause more severe side effects that require immediate medical attention. These may include:

• Difficulty breathing or shallow breathing
• Irregular heartbeat
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Confusion or hallucinations
• Seizures
• Severe allergic reactions, including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing

If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention.

Additionally, Dex-Tuss contains codeine, which is an opioid medication and can lead to serious side effects, including:

• Respiratory depression (slow or shallow breathing)
• Physical dependence
• Addiction or misuse
• Withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing use

These side effects are more likely to occur with high doses or prolonged use of Dex-Tuss. It’s essential to use this medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to avoid exceeding the recommended dosage or frequency of administration.

If you have any concerns about the side effects of Dex-Tuss or experience any unusual symptoms while taking this medication, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Keep Dex-Tuss at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Store it in a tightly closed container, and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of Dex-Tuss properly according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for proper disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Help: If you suspect an overdose of Dex-Tuss or experience severe symptoms such as extreme drowsiness, confusion, shallow breathing, slow heartbeat, fainting, or coma, seek immediate medical attention. Call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Poison Control: You can also contact a poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance on what to do in case of overdose or ingestion of Dex-Tuss.

What other information should I know?

• Medical Alert: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are taking Dex-Tuss, especially before undergoing any surgical procedures or medical tests.
• Follow-up: Keep all scheduled appointments with your doctor for follow-up evaluations while taking Dex-Tuss. Your doctor may need to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
• Refills: Do not share Dex-Tuss with others, even if they have similar symptoms. It is prescribed specifically for your condition and should not be used by anyone else without a doctor’s recommendation.
• Avoid Activities Requiring Alertness: Dex-Tuss may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or engaging in activities that require mental alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
• Medical Identification: Consider wearing a medical identification bracelet or necklace indicating that you are taking Dex-Tuss, especially if you have a history of respiratory issues or are at risk of respiratory depression due to the medication’s opioid component.
• Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with the potential side effects and risks associated with Dex-Tuss. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about Dex-Tuss, you can use the medication safely and effectively under the guidance of your healthcare provider.