Abstract
Dextromethorphan, after administration, is rapidly and extensively transformed into dextrorphan. The aim of this study was to compare the cough-suppressing activity of 6, 12, 24, 48 mg/kg, i.p., of dextrorphan (dextro rotatory isomer of racemorphan) with that of dextromethorphan, using the model of citric acid-induced coughing in the unanaesthetized, unrestrained guinea pig. A significant dose-effect relationship of dextrorphan in reducing citric acid-induced cough was observed. This effect was comparable with that of dextromethorphan. However, at 48 mg/kg, i.p., dextromethorphan had a toxic effect while dextrorphan did not. Because dextrorphan is the major metabolite of dextromethorphan and has antitussive activity comparable to that of dextromethorphan, clinical use of dextrorphan is suggested.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 199-203 |
| Number of pages | 5 |
| Journal | Drugs under Experimental and Clinical Research |
| Volume | 20 |
| Issue number | 5 |
| Publication status | Published - 1994 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Molecular Medicine
- Pharmacology (medical)
- Drug Discovery
- Pharmacology