What is the recommended dosing for Tussonex (corticosteroid and bronchodilator)?

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Tussionex Dosing

I cannot provide dosing recommendations for Tussionex based on the evidence provided, as none of the studies address this medication.

Critical Clarification

The evidence supplied exclusively covers:

  • Biologic therapies for psoriasis (ustekinumab, TNF inhibitors) 1
  • Antiemetic protocols for chemotherapy and radiation therapy 1
  • Nebulizer therapy and bronchodilators for asthma/COPD 1
  • Budesonide inhalation suspension dosing 2, 3
  • Research on bronchodilator and corticosteroid combinations 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

What is Tussionex?

Tussionex is a prescription cough suppressant containing hydrocodone (an opioid) and chlorpheniramine (an antihistamine)—not a corticosteroid and bronchodilator combination as suggested in the expanded question.

Standard Dosing (General Medical Knowledge)

For adults and children ≥12 years:

  • 5 mL (10 mg hydrocodone/8 mg chlorpheniramine) every 12 hours
  • Maximum: 10 mL per 24 hours

For children 6-11 years:

  • 2.5 mL every 12 hours
  • Maximum: 5 mL per 24 hours

Key Safety Points

  • Contraindicated in children <6 years due to risk of fatal respiratory depression
  • Take with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset
  • Do not exceed recommended dose—risk of respiratory depression, sedation, and death
  • Avoid alcohol and CNS depressants during therapy
  • Shake well before use—extended-release suspension

Common Pitfalls

  • Do not use for chronic cough from smoking, asthma, or emphysema without physician guidance
  • Not appropriate for productive cough requiring expectoration
  • Risk of dependence and abuse—schedule II controlled substance
  • Measure with calibrated device only—household spoons are inaccurate

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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