Laitos (Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide)

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide acts on the central cough centre to reduce coughing in several common situations.

• Temporary relief of cough: reduces the frequency and intensity of dry, non‑productive coughs.
• Cough associated with minor throat irritation: eases irritation‑driven coughs.
• Cough associated with bronchial irritation: helps control cough caused by mild bronchial inflammation.

• Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide suppresses cough by acting on the medullary cough centre in the brainstem. It functions as an NMDA receptor antagonist and sigma‑1 receptor agonist, which modulates neuronal activity involved in the cough reflex, thereby decreasing the urge to cough without affecting respiratory function.

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and transient.

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness: feeling unusually sleepy or fatigued.
• Nausea: mild stomach upset or queasiness.
• Dry mouth: reduced saliva production leading to a dry sensation.
• Dizziness: light‑headed feeling, especially when standing quickly.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reactions: rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Hallucinations or vivid dreams: altered perception or visual disturbances.
• Severe skin reactions: Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Respiratory depression: unusually slow or shallow breathing, especially if combined with other depressants.

Before using Laitos, consider the following safety measures.

• Do not exceed the recommended dose: follow the prescriber's instructions or product label.
• Avoid use with MAO inhibitors: concurrent use may increase risk of serotonin syndrome.
• Use caution in liver disease: impaired metabolism may increase drug exposure.
• Avoid operating machinery if drowsy: the medication can cause sedation.
• Keep out of reach of children: accidental ingestion can be hazardous.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide can interact with several other substances.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): risk of severe serotonin syndrome.
• Other dextromethorphan‑containing products: risk of overdose and heightened side effects.
• Certain selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as fluoxetine: increased serotonin levels may precipitate serotonin syndrome.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Alcohol: may enhance drowsiness and central nervous system depression.
• CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, antihistamines): may increase sedation.
• Certain antidepressants (e.g., SNRIs, tricyclics): may require dose adjustment or monitoring for serotonin toxicity.