Dextromethorphan Dosage Table
| Dextromethorphan Dosage Table | ||||||||
| Child's weight more than (pounds) | 16 | 32 | 48 | 64 | 80 | 96 | 130 | lbs |
| Total amount (mg) | 2.5 | 5 | 7.5 | 10 | 12.5 | 15 | 20 | mg |
| Liquid 5 mg/5 ml (tsp) | ½ | 1 | 1½ | 2 | 2½ | 3 | -- | tsp |
| Liquid 7.5 mg/5 ml (tsp) | -- | -- | 1 | 1 | 1½ | 2 | 3 | tsp |
| Liquid 10 mg/5 ml (tsp) | -- | -- | -- | 1 | 1 | 1½ | 2 | tsp |
Indication: Cough suppressant. Dextromethorphan (DM) is present in most cough syrups.
Table Notes:
- AGE LIMIT: Don’t use under 4 years of age. Over 4 years of age: NOT recommended as primary treatment of cough. Use honey instead. Avoid multi-ingredient products in children under 6 years of age. (Reason: FDA recommendations 10/2008).
- DOSAGE: Determine by finding child's weight in the top row of the dosage table.
- ADULT DOSE: 20 mg
- FREQUENCY: Repeat every 6-8 hours as needed
Author and Senior Reviewer: Barton D. Schmitt, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 3/15/2008
Last Revised: 6/27/2008
Content Set: Pediatric HouseCalls Online
Copyright 1994-2008 Barton D. Schmitt, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 3/15/2008
Last Revised: 6/27/2008
Content Set: Pediatric HouseCalls Online
Copyright 1994-2008 Barton D. Schmitt, M.D.