Does Robitussin DM Have Alcohol In It?
In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether or not Robitussin DM contains alcohol.
I want to know if Robitussin DM has alcohol in it?
Aug 21, 2022- Robitussin DM does not contain ethanol (the type of alcohol found in drinks) and is considered alcohol-free. The product does contain menthol, which is a type of alcohol, but it will not show up on tests for ethanol consumption. If you need to avoid alcohol for medical or personal reasons, Robitussin DM is safe to use.
Answer
Thanks for reaching out to us!
Robitussin DM is a combination product that contains the following active ingredients:
- Dextromethorphan (cough suppressant)
- Guaifenesin (expectorant)
Now, when people ask about a product and whether or not it has alcohol in it, they are generally referring to ethanol, the type of alcohol that is in beverages like wine and beer, etc.
Robitussin DM, manufactured by GSK, does not contain alcohol (ethanol) and is considered alcohol-free in that regard. However, it does contain menthol, which is a type of alcohol.
Below, are the inactive ingredients contained in Robitussin DM:
- Anhydrous citric acid
- Carboxymethylcellulose sodium
- FD&C blue no. 1
- FD&C red no. 40
- Glycerin
- Liquid glucose
- Menthol
- Natural and artificial flavors
- Polyethylene glycol
- Propylene glycol
- Purified water
- Sodium benzoate
- Sodium citrate
- Sucralose
- Triacetin
- Xanthan gum
Below is the full drug label for Robitussin DM:
Is Menthol An Issue?
There are many reasons why someone would want to avoid alcohol in a drug product. Menthol will not show up on a urine test that is looking for ethanol consumption, so it is safe in that regard. It also doesn't tend to cause any negative effects unless consumed in extremely large amounts. However, there have been reports of menthol causing issues with breathalyzer tests, but it appears to be relatively uncommon.
If you need to abstain from alcohol (ethanol) consumption, Robitussin DM is safe to use.
Final Words
Thanks again for your question!
References & sources
- Robitussin DM Label — Robitussin.com
- Menthol: a natural analgesic compound — PubMed
- Urine Menthol as a Biomarker of Mentholated Cigarette Smoking — PubMed
Glossary — Terms in This Answer
- Dextromethorphan
- A cough suppressant medicine that reduces the urge to cough.
- Guaifenesin
- An expectorant that helps thin mucus so it's easier to cough up.
- Expectorant
- A type of medicine that helps clear mucus and phlegm from the airways.
- Ethanol
- The type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages like wine and beer.
- Menthol
- A cooling substance derived from mint that is technically a type of alcohol but does not have intoxicating effects.
- Inactive ingredients
- Substances in a medication that don't have a therapeutic effect but help with taste, texture, or preservation.
- Carboxymethylcellulose sodium
- A thickening agent used in medications to give them the right consistency.
- Polyethylene glycol
- A liquid additive used in medications as a solvent and thickening agent.
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Doctor of Pharmacy, board certified clinical pharmacist (BCPS), American Herbalist Guild, Medication Therapy Management certified
Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS, is a licensed pharmacist with more than 13 years of experience across retail pharmacy, clinical pharmacy, medication safety, pharmacy program development, and healthcare administration. He is the founder of HelloPharmacist.com, where he helps patients...
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