Dextromethorphan is best described as:

• A. A decongestant that relieves nasal swelling
• B. A vitamin supplement
• C. A non-prescription sleep aid
• D. An opioid that can be used for cough suppression but may cause constipation

Answer: (D)

Dextromethorphan is best described as an opioid-like cough suppressant. It works by acting on the brain’s cough center to reduce the urge to cough, which is why it’s included in many over-the-counter cough medicines. Because it has opioid-like activity, at higher doses it can cause effects similar to opioids, including slowed gut movement, which can lead to constipation. This potential for opioid-like effects also means there is a risk of misuse, so it should be used as directed and with awareness of interactions and safety precautions. It isn’t a decongestant, which would relieve nasal swelling; it isn’t a vitamin supplement; and while it can cause drowsiness in some people, its primary use is cough suppression, not serving as a sleep aid.