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Compare Delsym vs. Dimetapp

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Dextromethorphan (Delsym) and brompheniramine / phenylephrine (Dimetapp Cold and Allergy) are both over-the-counter medications used to relieve symptoms of the common cold. However, they belong to different medication classes and have distinct uses. Dextromethorphan is an antitussive, which means it helps suppress coughs by acting on the brain's cough center. It is available in both extended-release and immediate-release forms and is typically taken every 6 to 12 hours. Common side effects include nausea and stomach upset, with drowsiness being less common. On the other hand, brompheniramine / phenylephrine is a combination of an antihistamine and a decongestant, used to relieve symptoms like nasal congestion, runny nose, and itchy eyes. It can be taken every 4 hours and can cause dizziness, sleepiness, and dry mouth. While dextromethorphan can interact with medications that raise serotonin levels, brompheniramine / phenylephrine can worsen conditions like high blood pressure and should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Both medications should be used with caution to avoid overdose, especially since they are common ingredients in many cold and flu products.

  • Dextromethorphan (Delsym)
    Brompheniramine/phenylephrine
  • Dextromethorphan (Delsym)
    Brompheniramine/phenylephrine

  • Summary of Delsym vs. Dimetapp

    Summary for Antitussive

    Dextromethorphan (Delsym) is an over-the-counter cough suppressant (antitussive). It helps relieve "dry" cough in adults and children by suppressing the cough reflex. Dextromethorphan (Delsym) is available as an extended-release (ER) cough syrup that's taken by mouth, typically every 12 hours. It also comes as an immediate-release (IR) caplet that's usually taken every 6 to 8 hours. Dextromethorphan might also come in additional formulations, under other brands. Some common side effects of dextromethorphan (Delsym) include nausea and stomach upset. Rarely, it can also make you sleepy.

    Summary for Antihistamine / Decongestant

    Brompheniramine/phenylephrine is a combination medication that helps to temporarily relieve symptoms of cold and allergies, such as watery eyes, stuffy nose, and itchy throat. It's taken by mouth and available in both a liquid and a tablet form, and as lower-cost generic medications.

  • Indications of Delsym vs. Dimetapp

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

    Short-term relief of symptoms from allergies and the common cold:

    •Nasal congestion
    •Runny nose
    •Sneezing
    •Itching of the nose or throat
    •Itchy or watery eyes

  • Pros and Cons of Delsym vs. Dimetapp

    Pros and Const for Antitussive
    Pros
    •Available as pills or oral liquids
    •Sugar-free options available
    •Available over the counter without a prescription
    Cons
    •Might need to take multiple times a day
    •Meant for short-term treatment of cough only
    •Found in many OTC products, so you can accidentally take too much
    Pros and Const for Antihistamine / Decongestant
    Pros
    •Combines two medications into one product for convenience
    •Can treat multiple allergy and common cold symptoms
    •Available over the counter without a prescription
    Cons
    •Might need to take multiple times a day to relieve symptoms
    •More difficult to customize the dose since it's a fixed combination
    •Might not be a good choice for people over 65 years old or people with glaucoma, breathing problems, stomach problems, or urinary problems

  • Common Side Effects of Delsym vs. Dimetapp

    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea
    •Belly discomfort
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness
    •Sleepiness
    •Constipation
    •Dry mouth

  • Warnings of Delsym vs. Dimetapp

    Common Side Effects for
    •Overdose and misuse
    •Medication interactions
    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening of medical conditions
    •Accidental overdose

  • Prices with our coupons for Delsym vs. Dimetapp

    Learn more about Dextromethorphan
    Learn more about Brompheniramine/phenylephrine

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