Medullary depression opioids causing

Dextromethorphan (Mediquell, Benylin DM, PediaCare 1, Delsym, Others) [OTC] [Antitussive] Uses Control nonproductive cough Action Suppresses medullary cough center Dose Adults. 10-30 mg PO q4h PRN (max 120 mg/24 h) Peds. 2-6 y 2.5-7.5 mg q4-8h (max 30 mg/24 h) 7-12 y 5-10 mg q4-8h (max 60 mg/24/h) Caution [C, /-] Not for persistent or chronic cough Contra < 2 y. Disp Caps, lozenges, syrup, Liq SE GI disturbances Interactions T Effects W/ amiodarone, fluoxetine, quinidine, terbinafme T risk of serotonin synd Wf sibutramine, MAOIs T CNS depression Wf antihistamines, antidepressants, sedative, opioids, EtOH EMS Will not affect cough caused by asthma,... 

The cause of death in most cases of opioid overdosage is respiratory depression, i.e., an effect of opioids on the respiratory center of the brainstem that inhibits chemore-ceptor responsiveness to CO2. The medullary ventilatory control center is said to have a high density of 1X2 opioid... 

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