Dropropizine

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

Dropropizine[edit | edit source]

Chemical structure of Dropropizine

Dropropizine is a cough suppressant (antitussive) medication used to alleviate coughs. It is a non-opioid drug that acts on the central nervous system to reduce the cough reflex. Dropropizine is commonly used in various formulations, including syrups and tablets, and is available in many countries under different brand names.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Dropropizine works by inhibiting the cough reflex at the level of the medulla oblongata, which is part of the brainstem. Unlike opioid antitussives such as codeine, dropropizine does not act on opioid receptors, making it a safer alternative with fewer side effects related to opioid use.

Pharmacokinetics[edit | edit source]

Dropropizine is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract when taken orally. It undergoes metabolism in the liver and is excreted primarily through the kidneys. The onset of action is typically within 30 minutes, and the effects can last for several hours, depending on the formulation and dosage.

Clinical Uses[edit | edit source]

Dropropizine is primarily used to treat dry, non-productive coughs associated with conditions such as the common cold, bronchitis, and other respiratory tract infections. It is not effective for productive coughs, where mucus is present, as it does not have expectorant properties.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of dropropizine include drowsiness, dizziness, and gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea and vomiting. It is generally well-tolerated, but caution is advised when operating machinery or driving due to its sedative effects.

Contraindications[edit | edit source]

Dropropizine should not be used in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the drug. It is also contraindicated in patients with asthma or other respiratory conditions where cough suppression could be harmful.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD