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What are the side effects of Delsym?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have had a terrible cough for weeks due to the flu. I decided to try Delsym 12-hour cough. It helped immensely, but the second day I had it, I noticed a bit of restlessness and light sensitivity. I waited to take another dose, and when I did, I took half of the recommended dose for adults.

That was at 10 p.m. last night. Now, at almost 2 p.m. the next day, I am experiencing odd side effects: sweaty palms, a bit of confusion, loss of attention, and light sensitivity. It feels like my eyes are dilated, but they do not appear to be. Every day, I take 20 mg of Vyvanse and 300 mg of Wellbutrin. Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Mahwish Dildar Abbasi

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Mahwish Dildar Abbasi is a skilled Consultant Dermatologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail disorders. She has expertise in managing conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin infections, along with cosmetic dermatology procedures like laser therapy and skin rejuvenation. Known for her patient-centered approach and clinical precision, Dr. Abbasi is dedicated to promoting healthy skin and enhancing patient confidence.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Sorry to hear about what you are going through.

Basically, from your history, you might be suffering from what is known as serotonin syndrome (when your body has too much serotonin, a chemical that helps control mood, sleep, and other body functions). It is a rare but possible condition that can occur when Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) is taken together with Dextromethorphan (Delsym). It can also occur with Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) and Bupropion (Wellbutrin) taken together due to drug interactions, but I assume you must have been taking them for a while now, so it is not that.

The best advice for you is to stop Delsym right away. I would also advise you to consult the doctor who prescribed you the other two drugs to stop or reduce the dosage to rule out serotonin syndrome with them as well.

I hope this helps.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Hemalatha
Published At January 17, 2020
Reviewed At October 14, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Mahwish Dildar Abbasi is a skilled Consultant Dermatologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail disorders. She has expertise in managing conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin infections, along with cosmetic dermatology procedures like laser therapy and skin rejuvenation. Known for her patient-centered approach and clinical precision, Dr. Abbasi is dedicated to promoting healthy skin and enhancing patient confidence.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Hemalatha is a dedicated Dental Surgeon with expertise in preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dental care. She is passionate about promoting oral health and creating personalized treatment plans to suit each patient’s needs. Her clinical approach emphasizes patient comfort, precision, and long-term dental wellness, ensuring a positive and reassuring experience for every individual under her care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Mahwish Dildar Abbasi is a skilled Consultant Dermatologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail disorders. She has expertise in managing conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin infections, along with cosmetic dermatology procedures like laser therapy and skin rejuvenation. Known for her patient-centered approach and clinical precision, Dr. Abbasi is dedicated to promoting healthy skin and enhancing patient confidence.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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