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Tussin DM

Generic name: dextromethorphan and guaifenesin

Brand names: Aquatab DM, Broncotron, Coricidin HBP Chest Congestion & Cough, DayQuil Mucus Control DM, Delsym Cough Plus Chest Congestion DM, Fenesin DM IR, G-Zyncof, Mucinex DM, Phlemex, Robitussin Cough + Chest Congestion DM, Safetussin DM, Siltussin DM, TabTussin DM, Zyncof

Last updated March 25, 2025 0 views Reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm
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What is Tussin DM?

Tussin DM contains a comination of dextromethorphan and guaifenesin. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant and guaifenesin is an expectorant.

Tussin DM is used to treat cough and chest congestion caused by minor throat and bronchial irritations, the common cold, and allergies.

Tussin DM helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions to help drain bronchial tubes.

Tussin DM will not treat a cough that is caused by smoking.

How should I take Tussin DM?

Use Tussin DM exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Cold or cough medicine is only for short-term use until your symptoms clear up.

Always follow directions on the medicine label about giving cough or cold medicine to a child. Do not use the medicine only to make a child sleepy. Death can occur from the misuse of cough or cold medicines in very young children.

Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

The recommended dose of Tussin DM is 10ml every 4 hours for adults and children 12 years and over. Do not take more than 6 doses in any 24-hour period. Tussin DM is not intended for use in children under 12 years of age.

Drink extra fluids to help loosen the congestion and lubricate your throat while you are taking Tussin DM.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, or if you have a fever, rash, or headaches.

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time if you have taken Tussin DM within the past few days.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Warnings

Do not use Tussin DM if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days, such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine.

Before taking this medicine

Do not use Tussin DM if you have taken an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, and tranylcypromine.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have:

  • a cough with mucus; or
  • asthma, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis.

Ask a doctor before using Tussin DM if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

This medicine may contain phenylalanine. Check the medication label if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

Tussin DM side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Tussin DM: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • mood changes;
  • severe headache; or
  • severe dizziness or anxiety, feeling like you might pass out;.

Common Tussin DM side effects may include:

  • dizziness, drowsiness;
  • sleep problems (insomnia);
  • diarrhea; or
  • feeling nervous, restless, anxious, or irritable;.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since Tussin DM is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how Tussin DM will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.

Drinking alcohol with this medicine can cause side effects.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using other cough or cold medicines that may contain similar ingredients.

What other drugs will affect Tussin DM?

Avoid using Tussin DM with other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing (such as opioid medicine, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures).

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine if you are also using any other drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Some medicines can cause unwanted or dangerous effects when used together. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Common questions about Tussin

Does Mucinex help you get pregnant?
Some research suggests that Mucinex may help increase fertility by keeping the cervical mucus thin around the time of ovulation, which ensures sperm can travel freely through the cervix and helps with sperm survival. An increase in fertility can help increase your chances of becoming pregnant. Women with hostile mucus as the only cause of their infertility are the ones most likely to benefit from guaifenesin treatment. You should always talk with your doctor before using Mucinex around the time of conception or while pregnant or breastfeeding. Continue reading
What cold medicine can you take with diabetes?
If you have diabetes and you catch a cold or flu, there are over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that are safe for you to take to help alleviate your symptoms. Check out our suggestions for pain and fever relievers, cough and congestion medications and more. Remember to look for cold and flu medicines that are less likely to affect your blood sugar (glucose) levels, including sugar-free and alcohol-free options, or worsen any diabetes complications you may have. Continue reading
Does Mucinex help with Covid?
Mucinex does not prevent or cure COVID‑19, but it can help some people feel better by easing symptoms like chest congestion and cough. It should be used only for symptom relief and never as a substitute for COVID‑19–specific treatments, such as antivirals prescribed by your doctor. Continue reading

Related medicines

Before you take this medicine: the information on this page is general and may not cover your personal circumstances. Read the label supplied with your medicine and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking other medicines or managing a long-term condition.
General medicine information Consumer-friendly language Source: Drugs.com

Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer. Source page medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm on March 25, 2025.