{"id":14876,"date":"2020-08-12T15:47:42","date_gmt":"2020-08-12T19:47:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=14876"},"modified":"2026-01-28T13:44:31","modified_gmt":"2026-01-28T18:44:31","slug":"delsym-vs-robitussin","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/delsym-vs-robitussin\/","title":{"rendered":"Delsym vs. Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels: Differences, Similarities, and Which One is Better For You"},"content":{"rendered":"

Delsym<\/span><\/a> and Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels are over-the-counter cough medicines that temporarily relieve coughing. Both contain the active ingredient dextromethorphan, which helps suppress the cough reflex and provides temporary relief from a persistent cough. While they contain the same active ingredient, there are differences in dosage forms, pricing, and other factors. Continue reading to learn more about Delsym and Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What are the main differences between Delsym and Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Delsym and Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels are two popular over-the-counter medications used to relieve cough symptoms. Both medications are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They both contain the active ingredient dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant that helps temporarily relieve a dry, hacking cough. Both Delsym and Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels use an extended-release formula of dextromethorphan to provide extended relief. Delsym is available as a cough syrup and an oral caplet, while Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels are available in oral capsule form.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It’s important to note that neither of these products includes guaifenesin, an expectorant commonly found in many cough medications. Guaifenesin helps break up and thin mucus, making it easier to clear from the airways, which is beneficial for chest congestion and wet, mucusy coughs.<\/span><\/p>\n

There are also many multi-symptom <\/span>cough, flu, and cold medicines<\/span><\/a> available that contain various ingredients, including guaifenesin, dextromethorphan, <\/span>decongestants<\/span><\/a> like <\/span>pseudoephedrine<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>antihistamines<\/span><\/a> like <\/span>diphenhydramine<\/span><\/a>, and <\/span>acetaminophen<\/span><\/a>. These additional ingredients address symptoms such as mild pain, <\/span>fever<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>stuffy or runny nose<\/span><\/a>, and <\/span>sore throat<\/span><\/a>. This article will specifically compare Delsym and Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Main differences between Delsym and Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels<\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
<\/td>\nDelsym<\/b><\/td>\nRobitussin Long-Acting CoughGels<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Drug class<\/b><\/td>\nCough suppressant; antitussive<\/span><\/td>\nCough suppressant; antitussive<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand\/generic status<\/b><\/td>\nBrand and generic\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nBrand and generic\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the generic name?<\/b><\/td>\nDextromethorphan<\/span><\/p>\n

(dextromethorphan polistirex)<\/span><\/td>\n

Dextromethorphan<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What form(s) does the drug come in?<\/b><\/td>\nOral liquid<\/span><\/p>\n

Oral caplets<\/span><\/td>\n

Oral capsules\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the standard dosage?<\/b><\/td>\nVaries by age; follow dosing directions on the package.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Delsym liquid is dosed every 12 hours as needed, as the long-acting formulation provides up to 12 hours of cough relief.<\/span><\/p>\n

Delsym caplets are dosed every 6 to 8 hours as needed.<\/span><\/td>\n

Ages 12 years and older: Take 2 capsules by mouth every 6 to 8 hours as needed.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
How long is the typical treatment?<\/b><\/td>\nShort-term; taken as needed<\/span><\/td>\nShort-term; taken as needed<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Who typically uses the medication?<\/b><\/td>\nLiquid: adults and pediatric patients 4 years and older<\/span><\/p>\n

Caplet: adults and adolescents 12 years and older<\/span><\/td>\n

Adults and children 12 years and older<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Conditions treated by Delsym and Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels<\/span><\/h2>\n

Delsym and Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels can be used to relieve cough temporarily. They are especially useful in non-productive coughs such as the common cold and bronchitis. These medications help control the impulse to cough, which can be helpful for getting a <\/span>good night’s sleep<\/span><\/a>. However, the medications do not have a direct sedative effect to make you fall asleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

It’s important to note that while Delsym and Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels can help relieve symptoms, they do not treat the underlying cause of an infection. If you have a bacterial infection, <\/span>antibiotics<\/span><\/a> may be required. These over-the-counter medications are meant to provide symptom relief. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical guidance.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
Condition<\/b><\/td>\nDelsym<\/b><\/td>\nRobitussin<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cough<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Cost comparison of Delsym vs. Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels<\/span><\/h2>\n

Both Delsym and Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels are available over the counter in both brand-name and generic options. Prices can vary depending on the product you choose. To find the most cost-effective option, consult with your pharmacist. Typically, insurance plans and Medicare do not cover these medications, though there may be exceptions.<\/span><\/p>\n

Common side effects of Delsym and Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels<\/span><\/h2>\n

Both Delsym and Robitussin Long-Acting CoughGels contain dextromethorphan, which can lead to similar common side effects, including:<\/span><\/p>\n