Linctol is a cough suppressant manufactured for use with small animals, especially dogs, by an Australian company Jurax. The liquid is similar to human cough suppressants, contains ephedrine and dextromethorphan, and is usually administered for "kennel cough" in dogs. This disease is caused by a complex of infections in the upper respiratory tract, which is made worse by environmental conditions like poor ventilation, overcrowding, dust and dry air. The side effects that Linctol may trigger if taken by a human in error are due to the active ingredients ephedrine and dextromethorphan.
Common Side Effects of Ephedrine
Common side effects of ephedrine include dizziness, nervousness and anxiety. A patient may also become excited and have trouble sleeping. Headaches, nausea and general weakness are also possibilities, according to Drugs.com.
Severe Side Effects of Ephedrine
Uncommon, severe side effects that need medical attention include having trouble breathing, tightness of the chest, rapid heartbeat and swelling of facial areas. Other possibilities include hives, trouble with urination, seizures, tremors and lightheadedness. Mayo Clinic staff warn Linctol's ingredient ephedrine could induce high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke and was therefore banned in the United States in 2004 by the United States Food and Drug Administration.
Dextromethorphan Side Effects
Dangerous side effects for dextromethorphan include allergic reactions similar to those from ephedrine. Hives, facial swelling and difficulty breathing are among those possibilities. Drugs.com cites hallucinations, confusion, nervousness and extreme dizziness as all needing medical attention. Less severe and more common side effects of the Lactol ingredient dextromethorphan include nausea and stomach upset.
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