title: Dextromethorphan/quinidine: a novel dextromethorphan product for the treatment of emotional lability.
abstract: Dextromethorphan (DM) is among the most widely used, non-narcotic antitussives, with a predictable safety profile. In 1981, a non-opioid, high-affinity brain recognition site for DM was discovered, and since then a unique neuropharmacological profile has emerged for this 'old' drug , suggesting novel applications. However, an extensive body of research for DM alone in treating various neurological conditions has been inconsistent. This may be largely due to its rapid first-pass metabolism. DM is currently being reintroduced as the active ingredient in a novel combination product in which low-dose quinidine is added to inhibit its breakdown, elevating blood levels of DM and increasing its likelihood of reaching neuronal targets . This has opened new possibilities for therapeutic use; the best evidence at present being for neurological disorders affecting emotional control.
authors.affiliation: Center for Neurologic Study, 9850 Genesee Ave, Suite 320, La Jolla, California 92037, USA. cns@cts.com
authors.forename: Richard Alan
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Smith
mesh_terms: D000342:Affective Symptoms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000523:psychology; D001682:Biological Availability; D003915:Dextromethorphan / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006801:Humans; D019964:Mood Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000378:metabolism / Q000523:psychology; D011802:Quinidine / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics
chemical_list: D003915:Dextromethorphan; D011802:Quinidine