What Is Robitussin?
Robitussin is the brand name for a syrup that contains guaifenesin. This active ingredient belongs to the group of expectorant drugs.
Actually, there are different types of Robitussin, depending on the combination of active ingredients you have. Guaifenesin can be combined with dextromethorphan or pseudoephedrine, depending on the needs of the clinical picture.
Robitussin types
This drug has different presentations, which are classified according to their composition. It will always be a health professional who will decide which type is the most appropriate based on the symptoms and the clinical picture. Let’s see the three ways and what are their uses.
Expectorant
This presentation of Robitussin contains guaifenesin as the only component. It works by reducing the viscosity and facilitating the elimination of mucus. In other words, the secretions become more liquid, and it becomes easier to remove them from the body with less effort.
Guaifenesin is used to relieve chest congestion that occurs as a result of a cold or the common cold. It is also a useful monodrug in flu and chronic bronchitis.
However, it must be considered that Robitussin alleviates the symptoms, but it does not treat the cause of the process that is being suffered. It is not an antibiotic or an antiviral. It aims to reduce signs and symptoms.
This medicine is contraindicated when there is hypersensitivity to any of the components of the formula. It is also not indicated if there is a chronic or persistent cough, such as those derived from tobacco, asthma or emphysema.
Robitussin is also contraindicated if you are diabetic or have gastritis, stomach ulcer or liver disease. Even patients who have been or are being treated with tranquilizers should refrain from consuming it. The same applies to pregnant women or mothers who are breastfeeding.
Robitussin DM
Robitussin DM combines the expectorant action of guaifenesin with the antitussive action of dextromethorphan. Dextromethorphan is an active substance that belongs to the group of antitussive medicines with central action.
Dextromethorphan works by calming a dry and irritating cough. This effect is achieved because it decreases the brain activity that causes coughing.
Then, Robitussin DM will be indicated to treat irritant cough and facilitate the thinning of phlegm. Its effect appears after an hour and a half after taking it, and lasts up to 6 more hours, at which point the dose must be repeated.
Adverse reactions or side effects that it may cause include the following:
- Diarrhea.
- Headache
- Vertigo.
- Urticaria.
- Abdominal pain.
- Mild drowsiness
- Nausea and vomiting
Robitussin PE
Robitusin PE is a presentation that combines guaifenesin and pseudoephedrine in its composition. It is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of cough with congestion, as well as nasal obstruction.
Pseudoephedrine is an active substance derived from ephedrine, and is used to treat rhinitis, nasal congestion, and asthma. Treatment with this syrup can cause some adverse effects, including the following:
- Increase in blood pressure.
- Coronary heart disease when taken together with MAO inhibitor antidepressant medications.
- Agitation, feeling nervous, and shaking.
Robitussin PE is contraindicated if you have hypersensitivity to any of its components . Nor is its use indicated if you are on treatment with MAO inhibitors or have been taking them during the previous two weeks.
This medicine should be used with caution if you have heart disease, hypertension, or diabetes. In addition, it can cause digestive side effects such as pain in the epigastrium and diarrhea. The consumption of alcohol is totally prohibited while you are in treatment with this pharmaceutical form.
Cough is not treated with medicine alone
When you have a cough, it is advisable to treat it only if it prevents you from sleeping or leading a normal life. However, if the cough lasts more than a week, you should see a doctor.
As healthy measures, you should avoid everything that can cause irritation of the respiratory tract, such as dust, smoke and tobacco. It is very helpful to maintain adequate environmental humidity, avoiding sudden changes in temperature.
Another measure that is convenient to adopt is to consume about 2 liters of water a day. This amount of liquid will help you to thin the secretions, facilitating their expulsion.
If necessary, if the cough requires pharmacological help to disappear, it is possible that a health professional will indicate you Robitussin, which has different formulations. It will be the doctor who will tell you which is the right one for your case, at what dose and for how long.
