Extendryl-DM

The d-isomer of the codeine analog of levorphanol. Extendryl-DM shows high affinity binding to several regions of the brain, including the medullary cough center. This compound is an NMDA receptor antagonist (receptors, N-methyl-D-aspartate) and acts as a non-competitive channel blocker. It is one of the widely used antitussives, and is also used to study the involvement of glutamate receptors in neurotoxicity.

used to treat symptoms caused by the common cold, flu, allergies, hay fever, or other breathing illnesses (e.g., sinusitis, bronchitis). Extendryl-DM is a cough suppressant that affects a certain part of the brain (cough center), reducing the urge to cough. Decongestants help relieve stuffy nose symptoms. Antihistamines relieve watery eyes, itchy eyes/nose/throat, runny nose, and sneezing.

Extendryl-DM is a cough suppressant. It affects the signals in the brain that trigger cough reflex.

Extendryl-DM is used to treat a cough.

Extendryl-DM will not treat a cough that is caused by smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

Extendryl-DM may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

For adults and children over 12 years Extendryl-DM prescribed on 15 mg 4 times / day, children aged 6 years - 7.5 mg 4 times / day.

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What is the most important information I should know about Extendryl-DM?

Respiratory depression, obstructive airway disease, asthma. Acute alcoholism, convulsive disorders, head injuries, comatose patients, raised intracranial pressure. Pregnancy (prolonged use or high doses at term).

Use Extendryl-DM as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• Take Extendryl-DM by mouth with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation.
• Do not remove the strip from the pouch until you are ready to take Extendryl-DM. Be sure that your hands are dry when you touch the strip.
• Remove the strip from the pouch and place it onto the tongue. The strip dissolves quickly and can be swallowed with saliva. It may be taken with or without water.
• Use the strip right away after you open the pouch. Do not store it for future use.
• If you miss a dose of Extendryl-DM and you are taking it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Extendryl-DM.

This medication is used for temporary relief of coughs without phlegm that are caused by certain infections of the air passages (e.g., sinusitis, common cold). This product should not usually be used for an ongoing cough from smoking or long-term breathing problems (e.g., chronic bronchitis, emphysema) unless directed by your doctor. This product contains Extendryl-DM. It is a cough suppressant that works by decreasing the feeling of needing to cough.

Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Therefore, do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.

These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not use this product to make a child sleepy. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients. Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).

How to use Extendryl-DM

Take this medication by mouth, usually every 4 to 12 hours as needed or as directed by your doctor. If stomach upset occurs, take with food or milk. Use a medication-measuring device to measure your dose of liquid medication. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. If you are taking a suspension, shake the product well before measuring out your dose.

Dosage is based on the product you are taking and your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. If you are using this medication for self-treatment (without a prescription from your doctor), follow the specific dosing instructions on the packaging to find the correct dose for your age.

If your doctor directs you to take this medication daily, take it regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.

Improper use of this medication (abuse) may result in serious harm (e.g., brain damage, seizure, death). Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or use it for a longer time than prescribed. Properly stop the medication when so directed.

Tell your doctor if your symptoms persist or worsen after more than 1 week or if you also have fever, chills, headache, or rash. These may be signs of a more serious condition.

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What other drugs will affect Extendryl-DM?

MAO inhibitors (including furazolidone, procarbazine, selegiline) when administered simultaneous with Extendryl-DM may cause adrenergic crisis, collapse, coma, dizziness, agitation, increased blood pressure, hyperpyrexia, intracranial hemorrhage, lethargy, nausea, cramps, tremor. In combination with tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline, etc.) Extendryl-DM may appeal serotonin syndrome and possible subsequent death. Amiodarone, fluoxetine, quinidine, inhibiting system cytochrome P450, may increase the drug concentration in the blood. Tobacco smoke can lead to increased secretion of glands in the background of inhibition of cough reflex. Some inhibitors of CYP450 (such as quinidine) increase and extended effects of this medicine.

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What are the possible side effects of Extendryl-DM?

Slight drowsiness/dizziness, nausea, or vomiting may occur. Rarely, some people may experience severe drowsiness/dizziness with normal doses. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.