{"id":629685,"date":"2024-09-09T15:11:07","date_gmt":"2024-09-09T19:11:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=629685"},"modified":"2024-10-25T09:45:49","modified_gmt":"2024-10-25T13:45:49","slug":"delsym-vs-robitussin-dm","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/delsym-vs-robitussin-dm\/","title":{"rendered":"Delsym vs. Robitussin DM: Differences, Similarities, and Which One is Better For You"},"content":{"rendered":"

Delsym<\/span><\/a> and Robitussin DM are two popular over-the-counter medications used to relieve a cough. Both medicines are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Delsym contains the active ingredient dextromethorphan, which works by suppressing a <\/span>dry cough<\/span><\/a>. Robitussin DM contains two active ingredients. The first ingredient is guaifenesin. It is known as an expectorant and works by thinning out mucus, making it easier to expel. The other ingredient is dextromethorphan, which is the same ingredient that is in Delsym. While these medicines are commonly used for cough, they are not the same. Continue reading to learn more about Delsym and Robitussin DM.<\/span><\/p>\n

What are the main differences between Delsym and Robitussin DM?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Main differences between Delsym and Robitussin DM<\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
<\/td>\nDelsym <\/b><\/td>\nRobitussin DM<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Drug class<\/b><\/td>\nCough suppressant<\/span><\/td>\nExpectorant and cough suppressant<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand\/generic status<\/b><\/td>\nBrand and generic <\/span><\/td>\nBrand and generic<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the generic name?<\/b><\/td>\nDextromethorphan<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Guaifenesin and 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 liquid<\/span><\/p>\n

Oral capsules<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

How long is the typical treatment?<\/b><\/td>\nVaries; taken as needed<\/span><\/td>\nVaries; taken as needed<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Who typically uses the medication?<\/b><\/td>\nAdults and children 4 years and older<\/span><\/td>\nAdults and children 4 years and older<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Delsym contains an extended-release form of the active ingredient dextromethorphan, which allows for every 12-hour dosing. Dextromethorphan works as a cough suppressant and can help a dry, hacking cough. On the other hand, Robitussin DM contains both guaifenesin and dextromethorphan, an expectorant and cough suppressant, respectively. The guaifenesin component helps break up and thin out the mucus, making it easier to clear from the airways, and the dextromethorphan helps control the cough. Therefore, Robitussin DM is more suited for those who have chest congestion or when you feel like you have a wet, mucusy cough. <\/span><\/p>\n

It is important to note that there are hundreds of different multi-symptom <\/span>cough, flu, and cold medicines<\/span><\/a> that contain ingredients such as guaifenesin or dextromethorphan. Many also contain other ingredients, like <\/span>decongestants<\/span><\/a> (<\/span>pseudoephedrine<\/span><\/a>), <\/span>antihistamines<\/span><\/a> (<\/span>diphenhydramine<\/span><\/a>), and\/or <\/span>acetaminophen<\/span><\/a>. These help with symptoms such as mild pain, <\/span>fever<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>runny or stuffy nose<\/span><\/a>, and <\/span>sore throat<\/span><\/a>. This article, however, will specifically focus on Delsym and Robitussin DM.<\/span><\/p>\n

 Conditions treated by Delsym and Robitussin DM<\/span><\/h2>\n

Delsym<\/span><\/a> temporarily suppresses a cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, such as from a cold. It helps control the impulse to cough, which can be especially useful for getting a <\/span>good night’s sleep<\/span><\/a>. However, it does not have a direct sedative effect to make you fall asleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

Robitussin DM<\/span><\/a> is both a cough suppressant and an expectorant. It temporarily relieves coughs caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, like those from a <\/span>cold<\/span><\/a>. Additionally, it helps to loosen <\/span>phlegm<\/span><\/a> and thin mucus, making it easier to clear from the bronchial tubes.<\/span><\/p>\n

It’s important to remember that while Delsym and Robitussin DM can help manage symptoms, they do not address the underlying cause of an infection. If you have a bacterial infection, <\/span>antibiotics<\/span><\/a> may be necessary. These over-the-counter products are intended to provide symptom relief as you recover. Consult a healthcare provider for medical advice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Is Delsym or Robitussin DM more effective?<\/span><\/h2>\n

When deciding whether Delsym or Robitussin DM is <\/span>more effective<\/span><\/a>, it depends on the type of cough and symptoms you are experiencing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Delsym is typically more effective for a dry, non-productive cough. Its extended-release (long-acting) dextromethorphan formulation provides long-lasting relief by suppressing the cough reflex, which is helpful for preventing frequent coughing that disrupts sleep or daily activities.<\/span><\/p>\n

Robitussin DM is more suitable for a <\/span>productive cough<\/span><\/a> with mucus. The combination of guaifenesin and dextromethorphan suppresses the cough reflex and helps to thin mucus, making it easier to get rid of. This can be particularly helpful if you are dealing with chest congestion and need to clear mucus from your airways.<\/span><\/p>\n

You can also check with a healthcare provider or pharmacist to determine the best treatment based on your specific symptoms and health condition.<\/span><\/p>\n

Coverage and cost comparison of Delsym vs. Robitussin DM<\/span><\/h2>\n

Both Delsym and Robitussin DM are available over-the-counter in various sizes and formulations, as well as in both brand and generic. Therefore, the price will vary based on product selection. You can always ask your pharmacist to help you select a cost-effective product. Most insurance companies and Medicare prescription plans do not cover these medications, with some exceptions.<\/span><\/p>\n

You can apply a SingleCare discount to your Delsym or Robitussin DM purchase. Note that to use the SingleCare discount, you will need a prescription from a healthcare provider, which the pharmacy staff will use to process the discount.<\/span><\/p>\n

Some pricing examples follow:<\/span><\/p>\n