How to Take Robitussin Capsules

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Robitussin is the brand name for a blend of medications used to relieve coughing and other symptoms of an upper respiratory infection. Different types of Robitussin vary in strength and medications, so always check the label for active ingredients and read the dosage instructions. Low-strength formulas are typically taken 1 or 2 capsules at a time every 4 hours while extra-strength blends are intended to be taken 1 or 2 at a time every 12 hours. Robitussin is only intended for people over 12 years of age, so don't give it to a child younger than 12 unless your doctor says it’s okay.

Steps

Taking Robitussin

Choose a formula that focuses on cough suppression for dry coughs. If you are experiencing dry coughs with no mucus, take a formula that says "cough suppressant" on the label. Robitussin may help you get well faster because long periods of dry coughing can interrupt your sleep and cause chest pain and lightheadedness. The following varieties are best for suppressing a dry cough: 12 Hour Cough Relief Cough & Cold Long-Acting

Take Robitussin DM varieties to quell wet coughing and loosen mucus. Robitussin formulas with "DM" at the end of the title contain an expectorant, which will help break up mucus so you can cough it up easier. It may seem gross, but it's necessary to prevent infections caused by excessive mucus in your lungs and throat. The following varieties are best for breaking up mucus: Maximum Strength Cough + Chest Congestion DM Cough + Chest Congestion DM Multi-Symptom Cold CF

Take 1 or 2 capsules of low-strength Robitussin every 4 hours as needed. Robitussin capsules that contain 10 to 20 mg of dextromethorphan and 200 to 400 mg of guaifenesin should be taken every 4 hours. Take 1 capsule with 8 fluid ounces (240 mL) of water and see how it affects you. If you’re still experiencing harsh coughs, take 2 capsules at the next dosage window (4 hours later). Stop taking the drug and see your doctor if your cough gets worse or doesn’t go away within 7 days. Children 6 to 12 years of age should only take a low-dose formula specially made for children (like Children’s Cough Long-Acting) which comes in liquid form instead of capsules.

Swallow 1 to 2 capsules of extra-strength Robitussin every 12 hours. High-strength formulas containing 30 to 60 mg of dextromethorphan and 600 to 1,200 mg of guaifenesin should only be taken once every 12 hours. For instance, you might take the first dose at breakfast around 8:30 AM to help you get through the day and the second dose at 8:00 PM to help you sleep. Don’t take more than 4 capsules of high-strength Robitussin within a period of 24 hours. Talk to your doctor if your cough persists or worsens over the course of 7 days.

Call an ambulance if you experience severe side effects. While it’s highly unlikely, your body may have an allergic or adverse reaction to Robitussin. If you experience any of the following side effects, call for emergency medical care right away: Seizures or intense tremors Vomiting Severe stomach cramps Trouble breathing or tightening of the throat (anaphylaxis) Swollen tongue or lips Hallucinations

Determining If Robitussin Is Right for You

Avoid taking Robitussin with SSRIs, MAOIs, and other cold-relief medications. Combining prescription or over-the-counter medications with Robitussin can increase the risk of unpleasant side effects and, in some cases, lead to severe conditions like serotonin syndrome. Talk to your doctor before taking Robitussin if you take any of the following medications: Trazodone (Desyrel, Desyrel Dividose, Oleptro) Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Gabapentin (Neurontin or Neuraptine) MAOIs (Azilect, Eldepryl, Zelapar, Marplan, Nardil, Parnate)

See your doctor if your cough is caused by asthma, emphysema, or smoking. Robitussin is meant to relieve temporary coughs caused by the common cold, allergies, or other short-lived conditions. If you suspect your cough is caused by asthma, emphysema, or smoking (including exposure to smoke), talk to your doctor about treating those conditions via other methods. Your doctor may say it’s okay to take Robitussin for quick-relief, but you shouldn’t take it every day for more than 7 days.

Don't drink alcohol 8 hours before or after taking Robitussin. Mixing alcohol and dextromethorphan can increase any drowsiness or dizziness you may feel after taking the drug. It may even cause sedation, which can be dangerous. If you suffer from alcoholism, talk to your doctor before taking Robitussin. Robitussin has a half-life of 4 hours, so it's safest to not take it within 8 hours of drinking alcohol since everyone metabolizes the drug differently.

Be aware of the common side effects of Robitussin. Everyone reacts differently to cough medicines, so acknowledge that you may experience slightly unpleasant (but benign) side effects after taking Robitussin. Taking just 1 capsule and eating something beforehand may decrease your chances of having side effects. You may experience any of the following: Physical side effects: dizziness, difficulty eating, difficulty sleeping, decreased appetite, fast heartbeat, weakness, slight muscle tremors, and nausea. Mental side effects: agitation, nervousness, slight confusion or disorientation.