Гликодин

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Гликодин

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Method of action: Antitussive, Mucolytic

Treatment option:

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Гликодин

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredients Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide, Levomenthol, Terpinhydrate
Form Syrup (Oral Formulation)
Pharmacological class Combination Antitussive, Expectorant, and Counterirritant
General purpose Symptomatic relief of cough
Type Multicomponent drug

Гликодин is an oral formulation presented as a syrup, classified as a combination cough and cold preparation designed for the symptomatic management of cough. This formulation represents a multicomponent drug that integrates three distinct pharmacological functions into a single medicine, aimed at providing broad relief for various aspects of the coughing mechanism. The syrup form is generally preferred for ease of administration in both adult and pediatric patient groups.


What Type of Medicine is Гликодин and How is it Classified?

Гликодин belongs to the pharmacological class of combination agents, uniting a central Antitussive, an Expectorant, and a Counterirritant. This classification signifies that the preparation acts through different mechanisms to manage cough symptoms arising from conditions affecting the respiratory tract. The central antitussive component reduces the frequency of coughing, while the expectorant and counterirritant functions work peripherally to manage mucus and soothe irritation. Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide is an effective, non-narcotic agent for the suppression of the cough reflex.


Composition and Form: What Active Ingredients Define Гликодин?

The therapeutic efficacy of Гликодин is based on the synergistic action of its three active ingredients: Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide, Terpinhydrate, and Levomenthol. Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide is a synthetic cough suppressant, while Terpinhydrate and Levomenthol are compounds that can be derived from natural sources or produced synthetically. Ingredients like Terpinhydrate function by increasing fluid secretions in the respiratory tract, helping make thick mucus easier to clear. The final product is prepared as an aqueous solution with saccharose, providing a smooth and easy-to-consume syrup form suitable for oral administration.


What is the General Purpose of Гликодин?

The general purpose of Гликодин is to provide comprehensive symptomatic relief by targeting key contributors to the discomfort of coughing, such as the persistent cough that may transition into one with excess mucus. It achieves this by combining central cough suppression to reduce the intensity of the reflex, facilitating mucus thinning and removal via its expectorant component, and delivering a local soothing sensation to alleviate throat irritation. This combined action ensures the medicine addresses the urge to cough while also helping the body manage excess bronchial secretions.

Regulatory References

  1. suppression of the cough reflex (NIH, MedlinePlus)

What side effects are possible with Гликодин?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety profile for this combination medicine is structured around effects on specific physiological systems, as documented by regulatory authorities. Adverse reactions are primarily categorized as Nervous System Disorders and Gastrointestinal Disorders.

At therapeutic doses, common side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and mild stomach discomfort or nausea are generally classified as uncommon in official regulatory information. The most frequently observed side effects, when they occur, tend to involve the central nervous system (CNS).


Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

The regulatory safety documentation highlights a specific risk for Serotonin Syndrome—a potentially life-threatening reaction—when the antitussive component (Dextromethorphan) is taken with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or other serotonergic agents. Consequently, the use of this medicine is contraindicated in patients who are currently taking or have recently discontinued MAOIs.

Official labels also detail population-specific safety considerations. Caution is advised for individuals with hepatic impairment due to the drug’s metabolism. Furthermore, the use of the medicine is often contraindicated in pediatric patients below a specified age, depending on the national label, due to safety concerns and a lack of established efficacy in very young children. The potential for acute toxicity and respiratory depression is documented as a serious risk associated with overdose or misuse. These formal classifications and constraints govern the safe use of the preparation.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The overdose profile for Гликодин is primarily driven by overexposure to Dextromethorphan. Regulatory guidance mandates that a suspected overdose is a potentially serious situation requiring immediate medical attention. Individuals must call a local emergency number or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Documented overdose presentations primarily involve the central nervous system, including a progression of altered mental status from agitation or profound drowsiness (somnolence) to coma. Other acute neurological signs officially described are ataxia (unsteady walking), nystagmus (involuntary eye movement), hallucinations, and the occurrence of seizures.

Systemic effects include cardiovascular manifestations such as tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), hypertension (high blood pressure), and elevated body temperature (hyperthermia). The most severe, life-threatening outcomes documented in regulatory sources are respiratory depression, the development of Serotonin Syndrome, and the risk of Rhabdomyolysis.

Special considerations are noted for pediatric patients, who may experience severe breathing problems and apnea. Management is generally supportive, focusing on close monitoring of vital signs and controlling symptoms. Interventions such as Activated Charcoal and the use of Naloxone for respiratory depression are documented procedures in the emergency setting.

Therapeutic Uses of Гликодин

The preparation is generally used for the supportive management of symptoms related to acute respiratory conditions, such as the common cold, influenza, and acute bronchitis. The antitussive component is commonly used to temporarily relieve cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation. This combined preparation is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed to address a variety of distressing manifestations, including the persistent dry cough, thick mucus with chest congestion, and local throat irritation.


Managing the Cough Symptom Cluster

This medication is commonly used to help with symptoms related to heightened physiological activity, specifically the persistent, dry, or hacking cough that creates noticeable functional strain. It assists in easing the overall symptom burden; it is used for managing symptoms of frequent and intense coughing, and contributes to easing the overall symptom load during periods when symptoms interfere with daily functioning. The formulation is also relevant in contexts involving inflammatory or irritative states that lead to a productive cough, where it plays a role in managing symptom clusters by assisting with managing symptoms of viscous mucus and congestion.

The syrup is typically indicated for the temporary relief of cough symptoms associated with minor throat and bronchial irritation, common cold, and influenza.


Quick Fact: Supportive Symptom Management
Symptoms addressed Persistent dry cough, thick mucus congestion, and local throat soreness.
Commonly used in Acute episodes of cold, flu, and bronchitis-related cough.
Supportive Benefit Contributes to easing the overall symptom load and supports general well-being.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview on Dextromethorphan

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Гликодин?

The eligibility for using Гликодин is strictly defined by regulatory guidance, based on age, existing medical conditions, and physiological status. The medicine is primarily intended for adults and children from 6 years of age who do not have documented contraindications.


Absolute Contraindications

Certain populations and conditions are absolutely prohibited from using this medicine:

  • Age: Children under 6 years of age.
  • Physiological Status: Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.
  • Comorbidities: Patients with Bronchial Asthma or Emphysema.
  • Drug Interactions: Patients currently taking or who have taken a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI) within the last 14 days.

Conditional Use and Restrictions

Usage requires caution or is not recommended in the following cases:

Condition Restriction Type
Severe Renal or Hepatic Impairment Caution is required
Diabetes Mellitus Caution is required (due to syrup's saccharose content)
Chronic cough or cough with excessive phlegm Not recommended unless advised by a professional

Eligibility is dependent on the absence of these absolute and conditional constraints, as established by official prescribing information.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The interaction profile of Гликодин is primarily defined by the Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide component, involving significant pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic patterns documented in regulatory labeling.


Formal Contraindications and Restrictions

Co-administration with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) is formally contraindicated due to the documented risk of Serotonin Syndrome. A mandatory separation period of at least 14 days is required after the cessation of MAOI treatment. The medicine is also restricted for use with certain CYP2D6-metabolized drugs that are known to prolong the QT interval, such as Thioridazine and Pimozide.


Metabolic and Exposure-Altering Interactions

The core metabolic interaction involves the CYP2D6 enzyme. Strong inhibitors of CYP2D6, including specific antidepressants like Fluoxetine and Paroxetine, reduce Dextromethorphan clearance. This action results in documented increased plasma concentrations and potential for amplified effects.


Pharmacodynamic and Substance Interactions

  • Serotonergic Agents: Regulatory documents note the risk of additive effects when co-administered with other serotonergic medicines, contributing to the Serotonin Syndrome risk.
  • CNS Depressants: Substances like alcohol and other CNS depressants may potentiate the central nervous system effects of the syrup.
  • Herbal Products: The use of St. John’s Wort is also listed as contributing to the potential risk of Serotonin Syndrome.

Population Considerations

Official labeling notes that patients identified as CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers naturally experience higher drug exposure, which may increase the risk of these documented interactions. Caution is also noted for patients with Hepatic Impairment due to the drug's dependence on liver metabolism.

Mechanism of Action

Central Suppression by Modulating Brainstem Signaling

This component acts on the cough center in the medulla oblongata, where its primary mechanism involves agonism of the Sigma-1 (sigma1) receptor and results in a modulation of the central reflex signal processing. This modulation of neural excitability in the brainstem contributes to a reduction of the central excitability within the reflex arc.

Peripheral Modification of Secretory Fluidity

The expectorant component functions peripherally by engaging in a secretagogue action that directly stimulates bronchial secretory cells. This interaction increases the volume and fluidity of bronchial secretions, which mechanically alters the viscosity of the airway lining fluid and enhances the functional output of the mucociliary apparatus.

Local Desensitization of Sensory Nerves

A third mechanism involves the local desensitization of sensory nerve endings, primarily through agonism of the TRPM8 ion channel. This activation generates a transient somatosensory response and modulates afferent sensory nerve signaling, contributing to a peripheral modulation of sensory input.

Mechanistic Synergy Across Three Domains

The drug's pharmacodynamic action is defined by the synergy of these three distinct mechanisms: central neuro-modulation, peripheral secretory modulation, and local somatosensory desensitization. This combination influences the core neurological and physiological processes governing the respiratory reflex and airway clearance simultaneously.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Administration Protocol for Гликодин Syrup

The administration of Гликодин (Dextromethorphan/Levomenthol/Terpinhydrate combination) follows specific instructions focusing on the proper use of the oral syrup form.

Administration Scope Official Instruction
Route of Administration The medicine is strictly for oral administration (by mouth) as a liquid syrup.
Standard Adult Dosing The typical single dose is 10 mL, administered multiple times daily. The total 24-hour dose must not exceed the specified maximum (e.g., 120 mg Dextromethorphan equivalent).
Frequency and Timing The dose is generally repeated every 6 to 8 hours or three to four times daily. The syrup may be taken with or without food.

Procedural and Use Constraints

Proper use requires specific steps to ensure accurate and safe dosing:

  • Preparation: The syrup bottle must be shaken well before measuring each dose.
  • Measurement: Doses must be measured using a calibrated measuring device provided with the medicine or a proper medication spoon, as household spoons are not accurate.
  • Duration: This medication is for short-term use only. If use is necessary for longer than 7 days, consultation with a healthcare provider is required.
  • Age Restriction: The use of multicomponent cough and cold products is often not recommended for children under 4 years of age in some jurisdictions, or under 2 years in others. The specific label must be consulted for age cut-offs.

Connection to the overall use protocol:

These instructions establish the protocol for using Гликодин as an oral, fixed-schedule, short-term agent. The protocol emphasizes dose precision via calibrated measurement and adherence to fixed intervals and duration limits.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of Studies for Гликодин

Evidence for Symptomatic Relief of Acute Cough

This section summarizes the available research base concerning the primary components of this multicomponent medicine, components that have been studied in research exploring how symptoms change over time in conditions associated with acute or disruptive episodes. Studies were conducted during periods of increased symptom activity to evaluate the main ingredients (a central antitussive and an expectorant) for outcomes related to physical discomfort.

Study Designs and Measured Outcomes

The research base includes short-term Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and literature included in regulatory filings. These trials were typically applied in research contexts involving fluctuating or unstable symptoms, such as conditions associated with acute or disruptive episodes. Research examined outcomes describing episodic or acute changes, including objective measures such as cough frequency counts and cough sound pressure level (CSPL). Additionally, studies monitored patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort, where patients scored their subjective cough severity on various assessment scales. Findings describe patterns observed in these studies over short observation periods.

Studies monitored objective cough activity, and research highlights changes measured during the study period, although evidence quality varies across studies. Some trials described patterns related to patient-reported scores and global assessments of perceived discomfort. However, research exploring short-term symptom changes, particularly for the antitussive component alone, has been associated with variable and mixed findings documented across different studies. Studies contribute to the broader evidence landscape; however, certainty remains low regarding the research explored for these types of fixed-dose combinations.


Evidence in Different Patient Groups

Research has explored outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance in different age groups. Adults experiencing acute cough associated with upper respiratory tract conditions have been observed in studies focusing on episodes where symptoms become more noticeable. These studies contribute to understanding symptom patterns over defined time intervals.

Data are still emerging regarding outcomes in specific special populations for this exact three-component preparation. While some trials have included defined pediatric age groups (e.g., children 6 years and older) when evaluating the cough-suppressant component, comparative evidence for the full combination is lacking. Data for certain groups, such as older adults or individuals with underlying chronic conditions, remain insufficient to establish specific patterns. Study results reflect the specific conditions under which they were conducted and apply only to the populations studied.


Long-Term Studies and Follow-up Durations

Research provides insight into short-term changes, as studies exploring temporary physiological imbalance typically relies on short-term observation. Follow-up durations were limited, often restricted to single-dose observations (monitoring the response for a few hours) or short treatment courses lasting less than one week.

Consequently, long-term effects are not fully established. There is limited information for long-term outcomes, and research provides context but not individual predictions regarding the durability of any symptomatic changes beyond the immediate treatment window.


What is Still Uncertain About Гликодин

Evidence highlights what is known—and what is still uncertain—about this combination. A key limitation is the lack of dedicated Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) that have specifically evaluated the full, fixed-dose combination of Dextromethorphan, Terpinhydrate, and Levomenthol. The need for dedicated trials was observed in studies describing how symptoms are measured in complex multicomponent drugs.

Additionally, research describing the single antitussive component has explored settings with varying symptom burdens, but findings were mixed across the scientific literature. The evidence quality varies across studies, and data are still emerging in some areas. Sample sizes were modest in some trials, and data for certain groups remain insufficient, meaning subgroup findings are uncertain.

Key Studies & References

  1. Dextromethorphan (Oral Route): Drug Information - MedlinePlus

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Гликодин (FAQ)

Q: How long does it take for the syrup to start working, and how long do the effects last?

According to official product information, the main active component, dextromethorphan, is described as typically beginning to exert its antitussive effect within 15 to 30 minutes following administration of the syrup. The duration of the cough-suppressing effect is described as generally having an effect that lasts for 3 to 6 hours. This information relates to the typical pharmacological profile documented in regulatory sources.

Q: Will taking this syrup make me drowsy or affect my ability to drive?

Official product labeling indicates that the medicine may be associated with side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness. Because the syrup may influence alertness and coordination, regulatory documents caution the user regarding activities that require full concentration. The labeling includes cautions regarding operating machinery or driving until the individual understands the potential effects of the medicine.

Q: What should I do if I or someone else takes too much of this syrup?

Official product warnings emphasize that if an overdose of the syrup is suspected, regulatory guidance directs that a doctor or a Poison Control Center should be contacted immediately. The risk of acute toxicity is documented in safety information and is described by regulatory bodies as requiring urgent medical evaluation and attention.

How should Гликодин be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Гликодин?

The storage and disposal of this oral solution must strictly follow regulatory instructions to ensure product quality and safety.

Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement
Temperature Store at controlled room temperature (e.g., between 15°C and 25°C). Do not freeze.
Protection Store in a dark place, protected from light, and keep the container tightly closed.
Safety It is mandatory to keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Гликодин must be disposed of according to local regulatory requirements, often through authorized drug take-back programs. The medicine must not be thrown into household trash or disposed of via wastewater unless explicitly permitted by local authorities.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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