Delsym: Uses, Dosage, Demographic, Side Effects, Interactions, and Generic Options Delsym is an over-the-counter cough suppressant that is widely used for treating cough due to various respiratory conditions. The active ingredient in Delsym is dextromethorphan polistirex, which provides long-lasting cough relief over 12 hours. In this article, we will cover the uses, dosage, demographic, side effects, interactions, and generic options of Delsym. Uses: Delsym is primarily used for suppressing dry, hacking coughs associated with colds, flu, and allergies. Delsym is not meant for use with coughs that produce mucus or go hand in hand with smoking or chronic lung conditions like asthma or emphysema. Delsym is also used for suppressing coughs before or after surgery. Dosage: The recommended dosage for adults and children ages 12 years and older is 10-20 ml every 12 hours. Children ages 6 to under 12 years should take 5-10 ml of Delsym every 12 hours. Children under 6 years of age should not use Delsym without a doctor's recommendation. Patients should not exceed the recommended dosage under any circumstances. Demographic: Delsym is safe for most adults and children over the age of 6 years. However, patients with liver or kidney disease, asthma, or those who take monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), should consult their doctor before using Delsym. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should also consult their obstetrician or pediatrician before using Delsym. Side Effects: Delsym is generally well-tolerated by most people. However, it may cause certain side effects in some cases, such as dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and stomach upset. Some people may experience allergic reactions like hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If any of these side effects occur, the patient should stop taking Delsym and seek medical attention immediately. Interactions: Delsym may interact with several medications, including MAOIs, sedatives, tranquilizers, and narcotics. Patients should also avoid using Delsym with alcohol or other cold and allergy medications that contain similar active ingredients as Delsym, such as phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine, or guaifenesin. Generic Options: Delsym is available only as a brand-name product. However, there are several generic and store-brand alternatives to Delsym, such as Robitussin DM, Mucinex DM, and Tussin DM, which contain dextromethorphan and guaifenesin as active ingredients. Patients should consult their healthcare provider before choosing a generic option instead of Delsym. Conclusion: Delsym is a widely used cough suppressant that provides long-lasting cough relief over 12 hours. Patients should follow the recommended dosage and safety precautions to avoid potential side effects and interactions. Patients with underlying health conditions, pregnant or nursing women, and children under 6 years of age should consult their healthcare provider before using Delsym or its generic alternatives.