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Capmist DM

dextromethorphan / guaifenesin / pseudoephedrine
Used for Cough
Used for Cough

Capmist DM is a combination of three medications: dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant), guaifenesin (an expectorant), and pseudoephedrine (a decongestant). It's available behind the counter and is taken by adults and children to treat cough and congestion from allergies or the common cold. Capmist DM comes as a tablet that's taken by mouth, typically every 4 hours. The combination of medications (dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, pseudoephedrine) can also be found under other brand names, such as Poly-Vent DM. Possible side effects of this medication can include sleepiness, dizziness, and headache.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on May 22, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageCostContraindicationsAlternativesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Capmist DM?

What is Capmist DM used for?

Short-term relief of symptoms due to allergies or the common cold:

  • Chest congestion

  • Sinus congestion and pressure

  • Stuffy nose

  • Cough

How Capmist DM works

Capmist DM is a combination of three medications that work together to relieve symptoms caused by allergies and the common cold.

Are you looking for information on Deconex DMX (dextromethorphan / guaifenesin / phenylephrine) instead?
When does Capmist DM start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsCapmist DM, Poly Vent DM
Drug ClassCough suppressant / Expectorant / Decongestant
Controlled Substance ClassificationControlled in some states. See FAQs below.
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription or over-the-counter
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Avg retail price
$15.87(save 11.03%)
GoodRx discount
$14.12
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What are the side effects of Capmist DM?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Other Side Effects

  • Changes in blood pressure (up or down)
  • Headache
  • Trouble sleeping

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Serotonin syndrome: fast heart rate, sweating, muscle stiffness or spasms, high fever, confusion
When do Capmist DM possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Dizziness
Restlessness
Trouble sleeping

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Heart palpitations—rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
  • Increase in blood pressure

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Anxiety, nervousness
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Trouble sleeping
pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Capmist DM

thumbs-up

Pros

Taken by mouth

More convenient to take because it's combination of three medications

Might be an option for children ages 6 years and older

thumbs-down

Cons

Might need to take multiple times a day

Can't adjust the dose of an individual medication in this combination

Pseudoephedrine not a good option for people with high blood pressure

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Capmist DM

pharmacist

  • Before giving Capmist DM to a child, read the directions and dosage on the label very carefully. Different brand names of this medication might have different directions and age cut-offs.

    • You can take Capmist DM with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, try taking the medication with food.

      • If your symptoms worsen or last longer than a week, or you start to have a fever, rash, or headache, stop taking Capmist DM and let your healthcare team know. These might be signs that you need more medical attention.

        • Stop taking Capmist DM and contact your healthcare team if you experience dizziness, nervousness, or trouble sleeping. These might be side effects from the pseudoephedrine or other medications in Capmist DM. Depending on how severe your symptoms are, your care team might lower your dose of Capmist DM or ask you to consider alternative medications.

          • Don't start any new medications while taking Capmist DM, especially other medications containing a cough suppressant, guaifenesin, or decongestants, without talking to a healthcare professional first. Doing so can raise your risk of overdose and severe side effects, including seizures, high blood pressure and heart rate, or even death.

            • Capmist DM shouldn't be taken with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), such as selegiline. This combination can raise your risk for severe side effects, like serotonin syndrome. If you're currently taking an MAOI or have taken one in the last 14 days, ask your care team about safer options to treat your symptoms.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Capmist DM

              How long does it take for Capmist DM to work?
              You might notice certain symptoms improving within 30 minutes to 1 hour after a dose of Capmist DM.
              Do you need a prescription for Capmist DM?
              In most states, Capmist DM can be purchased without a prescription. If Capmist DM is available at your local pharmacy, you can buy it at the pharmacy counter. Keep in mind that Capmist DM is a restricted medication because it contains dextromethorphan and pseudoephedrine, medications that can be misused or cause dependence. In most states, you'll need to be age 18 years or older, have a valid photo identification, and provide a signature when you purchase this medication. Talk with your pharmacist if you have questions about where to buy Capmist DM.
              Does Capmist DM make you sleepy?
              You might feel sleepy after taking Capmist DM because it contains dextromethorphan, which can cause sleepiness. But Capmist DM also contains pseudoephedrine, a medication that can make it difficult for you to fall asleep. Pay attention to how Capmist DM affects your sleep. Speak to your primary care provider if the medication is making you too sleepy or interrupting your sleep and affecting your daily activities. There might be better options for you to relieve your symptoms.
              Can I take ibuprofen with Capmist DM?
              Ask your primary care provider if it's safe for you to take Capmist DM and ibuprofen (Advil) together. Ibuprofen (Advil) and Capmist DM don't directly interact with each other because they work in different ways. But ibuprofen (Advil) isn't a safe option for everyone. For example, ibuprofen (Advil) might worsen kidney problems, so it's not a good choice for people who already have problems with their kidneys. In addition, both the pseudoephedrine in Capmist DM and ibuprofen (Advil) can raise blood pressure, so these medications aren't appropriate for people with high blood pressure.
              Can you take Capmist DM and Mucinex?
              No, you shouldn't take Capmist DM with any Mucinex product. Mucinex isn't a single medication, but it's a brand name that makes several products (including combination medications) for treating cold and flu symptoms. Most Mucinex products already contain dextromethorphan or guaifenesin, and some products also contain a decongestant. Because Capmist DM contains the same or similar ingredients, taking it with a Mucinex product can raise your risk for accidental overdose. Talk with your pharmacist if you've more questions about Capmist DM and Mucinex.
              Is Capmist DM an antibiotic?
              No, Capmist DM isn't an antibiotic and it doesn't actively fight infections. Capmist DM is a cold and allergy medication that a healthcare professional might recommend if you have an upper respiratory infection. It can help relieve certain infection symptoms like cough, sinus congestion, or stuffy nose.
              Can I use Capmist DM if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
              There's not enough information to say if Capmist DM is safe to take while pregnant or breastfeeding. Some studies show a higher risk of birth defects from taking pseudoephedrine (an ingredient in Capmist DM) during pregnancy. Also, pseudoephedrine can potentially lower your milk supply. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, don't take Capmist DM until you've talked to a healthcare professional first about the risks and benefits of taking the medication. They can also discuss with you about other options to treat your cold or allergy symptoms during pregnancy.
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              What are the risks and warnings for Capmist DM?

              Capmist DM can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

              risk-warning

              Serotonin syndrome

              • Risk factors: Taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) 14 days before starting Capmist DM | Taking other medications that raise serotonin levels in your brain

                The dextromethorphan in Capmist DM can raise your risk for serotonin syndrome, a rare, but potentially life-threatening side effect. Your risk is higher if you're also taking other medications that affect serotonin levels, such as certain antidepressants, MAOIs, and certain migraine medications.

                Make sure your healthcare team knows about all the medications you take (including over-the-counter medications and supplements) before starting Capmist DM so they can make sure this medication is safe for you to take. Don't start any new medications while taking Capmist DM without letting your pharmacist or prescriber know. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include fast heart rate, sweating, muscle stiffness or spasms, high fever, and confusion. Get medical help right away if you have any of these symptoms.

                risk-warning

                Accidental overdose

                Capmist DM contains a cough suppressant (dextromethorphan), an expectorant (guaifenesin), and a decongestant (pseudoephedrine), which are in many other over-the-counter products. Using more than one medication containing a cough suppressant, expectorant, and a decongestant can lead to an accidental overdose and cause serious side effects, including high blood pressure or fast heart rate, seizures, or hallucinations (seeing things that are not real). If you're not sure if a product has a cough suppressant, an expectorant, or a decongestant, ask your pharmacist.

                Make sure you read the medication box carefully because there are several manufacturers that make medications similar to Capmist DM and have different amounts of the three main ingredients with different age cut-offs for children who can safely use the medication. If you have any questions on which product is best for you or your child, ask your pharmacist. If you or your loved one experiences an accidental overdose, get medical help right away or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

                risk-warning

                Worsening of medical conditions

                • Risk factors: Cough from smoking, asthma, or emphysema | Mucus-producing cough | Heart disease or high blood pressure | Endocrine problems (e.g., thyroid disease, diabetes) | Urinary problems

                  Don't take Capmist DM if you have any of the risk factors listed above unless your primary care provider said it is safe to do so. Taking Capmist DM can worsen your condition(s) and cause serious side effects. Make sure your healthcare team knows about all medical conditions you have or have had in the past before starting Capmist DM.

                  dosage

                  Capmist DM dosage forms

                  The average cost for 30 tablets of 15mg/400mg/60mg of Capmist DM is $14.12 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 11.03% off the average retail price of $15.87.
                  tablet
                  Tablet
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  15mg/400mg/60mg30 tablets$14.12$0.47

                  Typical dosing for Capmist DM

                  There are several manufacturers that make products that contain dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and pseudoephedrine. They each might have different amounts of medication and the dose might slightly differ. Be sure to check the medication box for the specific instructions for your product.

                  Capmist DM tablets: Each tablet contains 15 mg of dextromethorphan, 400 mg of guaifenesin, and 60 mg of pseudoephedrine.

                  • Adults and children age 12 years and up: The typical dose is 1 tablet by mouth every 4 hours. Don't take more than 4 tablets in a 24-hour period.

                  • Children age 6 years to under 12 years: The typical dose is one-half a tablet by mouth every 4 hours. Don't take more than 2 tablets in a 24-hour period.

                  • Children under 6 years: Ask your child's pediatrician.

                  drug-cost

                  How much does Capmist DM cost?

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                  Capmist DM (brand)
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                  contraindications-icon

                  Capmist DM contraindications

                  Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Capmist DM will not be safe for you to take.
                  alternatives

                  What are alternatives to Capmist DM?

                  There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Capmist DM. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                  Capmist DM
                  Used for:

                  Short-term relief of symptoms due to allergies or the common cold:

                  • Chest congestion

                  • Sinus congestion and pressure

                  • Stuffy nose

                  • Cough

                  $14.12 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Deconex DMX
                  Used for:

                  • Loosen phlegm (mucus) in the lungs to make it easier to cough up

                  • Short-term relief of cough and stuffy nose (nasal congestion)

                  $12.64 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)
                  Used for:

                  • Short-term relief of coughs caused by minor throat or lung irritation (e.g., common cold)

                  • Loosens and breaks up mucus in the airways (chest congestion)

                  $16.09 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

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                  References

                  Best studies we found

                  Capital Pharmaceutical, LLC. (2024). Capmist DM- dextromethorphan hydrobromide, guaifenesin and pseudoephedrine hydrochloride tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  Poly Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2024). Poly-Vent DM- dextromethorphan hbr, guaifenesin and pseudoephedrine hcl tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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