Capron DM

Generic name: dextromethorphan and pyrilamine [ DEX-troe-me-THOR-fan-and-pir-IL-a-meen ]
Other brand names of dextromethorphan and pyrilamine include Capron DM, Capron DMT
Drug class: Upper respiratory combinations

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on May 1, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Capron DM?

Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant and pyrilamine is an antihistamine.

Capron DM is a combination medicine used to treat cough, runny nose, sneezing, itching, and watery eyes caused by allergies, the common cold, or the flu.

Capron DM will not treat a cough that is caused by smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

Capron DM may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Capron DM side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Capron DM may cause serious side effects. Stop using Capron DM and call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe drowsiness or anxiety;

• little or no urinating; or

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out.

Common side effects of Capron DM may include:

• drowsiness;

• nervousness; or

• feeling restless or excited (especially in children).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

Warnings

Do not use Capron DM if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days, such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine.

Do not use this medicine only to make a child sleepy. Death can occur from the misuse of cough or cold medicines in very young children.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to dextromethorphan or pyrilamine.

Do not use Capron DM if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine, and others.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have ever had:

• chronic bronchitis or other breathing problems;

• heart problems;

• glaucoma;

• a thyroid disorder;

• diabetes; or

• an enlarged prostate and urination problems.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

This medicine may contain phenylalanine. Check the medication label if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

Ask a doctor before giving this medicine to a child younger than 12 years old.

How should I take Capron DM?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Cold or cough medicine is only for short-term use until your symptoms clear up.

Always follow directions on the medicine label about giving cough or cold medicine to a child. Do not use the medicine only to make a child sleepy. Death can occur from the misuse of cough or cold medicines in very young children.

Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if you have a fever with a headache, cough, or skin rash.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since dextromethrophan and pyrilamine is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking Capron DM?

Drinking alcohol with Capron DM can cause side effects.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using other cough or cold medicines that may contain similar ingredients.

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.

What other drugs will affect Capron DM?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using dextromethrophan and pyrilamine with any other medicines, especially drugs that can cause drowsiness (such as opioid medication, sleep medicine, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures). Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed here.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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