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Dextromethorphan and Quinidine
Available by prescription only, dextromethorphan and quinidine is a medication prescribed to treat involuntary outbursts of crying or laughing in people with pseudobulbar affect (PBA). This medication comes in the form of a capsule and is typically taken once or twice daily. Although most people tolerate this drug well, side effects may occur and can include dizziness, coughing, and vomiting.
Dextromethorphan and quinidine (Nuedexta™) is a prescription medication approved to treat uncontrolled episodes of laughing or crying in people with a condition known as pseudobulbar affect (PBA). It contains a combination of dextromethorphan hydrobromide and quinidine sulfate.
(Click What Is Dextromethorphan and Quinidine Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
Just like any medicine, dextromethorphan and quinidine can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
If reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of dextromethorphan and quinidine include but are not limited to:
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Coughing
- Vomiting.
(Click Side Effects of Dextromethorphan and Quinidine to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD