Dimetapp is an American brand of over-the-counter cold and allergy medicines that is manufactured by Foundation Consumer Brands. At one point, Dimetapp as a household word referred to a single combination preparation marketed to relieve symptoms of the cold, containing brompheniramine (an antihistamine) and phenylephrine (decongestant replacing the formerly used pseudoephedrine, which itself replaced phenylpropanolamine). Variants were created, including Dimetapp DM with the addition of dextromethorphan (an antitussive or cough suppressant). Dimetapp Elixir and Color Free Elixir are intended to relieve nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy watery eyes, and sneezing, whereas Dimetapp DM and Dimetapp DM Color Free Elixir are intended for colds with dry coughs and also to treat whooping cough. Early Dimetapp was flavored with cherry and plum as they were readily available during the time, setting a precedent for its purple color; however, the flavor has been described as a grape candy.
Like many over-the-counter medications, Dimetapp relies on marketing and branding as differentiators of otherwise similar (often identical) branded and unbranded medications to maintain their premium pricing. Additionally, the actual medications are subject to remarketing in other brands. As an example, “Children’s Dimetapp ND” is a 10 mg orally disintegrating loratadine tablet with a “cool blast” flavor additive. The same product with a “Citrus Burst” flavor additive was also manufactured and distributed by Wyeth but branded and marketed as “Alavert” (not “children’s”).
Has Dimetapp been Discontinued?
Dimetapp had not been discontinued. However, Dimetapp Children’s ND Non-Drowsy Allergy brand name has been discontinued in the U.S. But the Children’s Dimetapp Cold and Cough have not been discontinued but were temporarily taken off the market after a batch of the drug was recalled due to potential overdose risks.
According to the manufacturer, the recall was necessitated by the inclusion of wrong-size dosing cups into the drug packages, which could cause parents to put too much medicine in the cup when giving their children the medication.
A communication by the FDA stated that the anomaly was discovered during the review of the packaging documents for the products. The manufacturer (GSK) discovered that the dosing cups for the Children’s Dimetapp product are missing the 10 mL graduation. The dosing cups packaged only have the 20 mL graduation.
There is a potential risk of accidental overdose if caregivers dispensing the syrup do not notice the discrepancies between the graduations printed on the dosing cups and the indicated amounts to be administered (as directed in the instructions for use). Children’s Dimetapp Cold & Cough contains 2 mg brompheniramine maleate USP, 10 mg dextromethorphan HBr USP, and 5 mg phenylephrine HCl USP per 10 mL, and is labeled for children 6 and older, as well as adults. Symptoms of overdose may include any of the following: impaired coordination; brain stimulation causing an increase in energy, elevation in blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration; a lack of energy and enthusiasm; severe dizziness or drowsiness; slow heart rate; fainting; psychotic behavior; restlessness; seizure; decreased respiration; nausea; vomiting; constipation; diarrhea; abdominal pain; visual and hearing hallucinations; urinary retention. As of the date of the recall announcement, GSK Consumer Healthcare has not received any adverse events related to these products or consumer complaints regarding the incorrect dosing cups supplied with the product.
The particular batch of Children’s Dimetapp Cold and Cough affected is:
Lot: CL8292 (Exp. Sep. 2021)
NDC 0031-2234-19
They were distributed nationwide between Feb. 5, 2020, and June 3, 2020, within the United States.
It is important to note that medication discontinuations can occur for various reasons, including changes in manufacturing or distribution, safety concerns, and changes in market demand. If you are concerned about a specific version or formulation of Dimetapp, We recommend speaking with your healthcare provider or contacting the manufacturer directly for more information.
Is Children’s Dimetapp safe?
Yes, Dimetapp cough-and-cold products are safe for children 6 years and older. However, it has not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor.
Dimetapp alternatives
Dimetapp range of over-the-counter cold and allergy medications contain different active ingredients. If you are looking for alternatives to a specific version or formulation of Dimetapp, it is important to consider the active ingredients and the symptoms you are trying to treat.
Here are some examples of active ingredients in Dimetapp and some potential alternatives:
1. Brompheniramine: This is an antihistamine used to treat symptoms of allergies, such as runny nose and sneezing. Some alternative antihistamines include loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and fexofenadine (Allegra).
2. Dextromethorphan: This is a cough suppressant used to treat coughs caused by the common cold or flu. Some alternative cough suppressants include codeine, guaifenesin, and benzonatate.
3. Pseudoephedrine: This is a decongestant used to relieve nasal congestion caused by the common cold, flu, or allergies. Some alternative decongestants include phenylephrine and oxymetazoline.
4. Ibuprofen: This is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain and reduce fever. Some alternative NSAIDs include aspirin and naproxen.
It is important to note that some of these medications may have different side effect profiles, drug interactions, and dosing recommendations. It is recommended that you speak with your healthcare provider or a pharmacist to determine which medication is most appropriate for your individual needs and medical history.
