Dextromethorphan is in the form of dextromethorphan hydrobromide (DXM•HBr) when sold as an over-the-counter cold and cough medicine. What does HBr stand for? What type of reaction is necessary to convert DXM to the HBr form and what is the purpose of converting the drug to this form?

• A. The HBr means that the drug is in its salt form. It is converted to its salt form via a neutralization reaction which increases its solubility in water and its absorptivity in the body.
• B. The HBr means that the drug is in its acidic form. It is converted to its acidic form via a precipitation reaction which decreases its solubility in water and improves its delivery to the body.
• C. The HBr means that the drug is in its salt form. It is converted to its salt form via a precipitation reaction which decreases its solubility in water and improves its delivery to the body.
• D. The HBr means that the drug is in its acidic form. It is converted to its acidic form via a neutralization reaction which increases its solubility in water and its absorptivity in the body.

Answer: (A)