Bromdex-DM

Bromhexine (4mg) + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (5mg) + Ammonium Chloride (50mg)
Price: Syrup: ₹70 - ₹95 for 100ml; Tablets: ₹45 - ₹60 for 10 strips
Mfr: Mankind Pharma Ltd. | Form: Syrup, Tablets

📋 Clinical Overview

A fixed-dose combination (FDC) antitussive and mucolytic agent used for the symptomatic relief of productive and non-productive cough associated with respiratory tract conditions. Bromhexine is a mucolytic, Dextromethorphan is a centrally-acting antitussive, and Ammonium Chloride is an expectorant. This combination is widely prescribed in India for acute cough due to its triple-action mechanism.

💊 Dosage & Administration

Adult: 1-2 tablets (or 5-10 ml syrup) three to four times daily. Maximum: 8 tablets or 40 ml syrup in 24 hours.

Note: Take with a full glass of water. Can be taken with or without food. For syrup, use the measuring cup provided. Maintain adequate hydration.

⚠️ Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to Bromhexine, Dextromethorphan, Ammonium Chloride, or any excipient.
  • Severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C).
  • Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min).
  • Patients on Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of stopping them (risk of serotonin syndrome).

🔬 Mechanism of Action

The combination works synergistically: Bromhexine reduces mucus viscosity, Dextromethorphan suppresses the cough reflex in the medulla, and Ammonium Chloride increases bronchial secretions and promotes expulsion.

🤕 Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Gastric irritation/upset
  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache

🤰 Special Populations

Pregnancy: Category C (US FDA). Bromhexine and dextromethorphan cross the placenta. Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk. Avoid in first trimester. Indian context: Prescribe with extreme caution.

Driving: May cause dizziness/drowsiness. Patients should not drive or operate machinery until effect is known.

🔄 Drug Interactions

MAO Inhibitors (Phenelzine, Selegiline)Risk of serotonin syndrome, hyperpyrexia, death.Contraindicated
SSRIs/SNRIs (Fluoxetine, Sertraline, Venlafaxine)Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.Major
CNS Depressants (Alcohol, Benzodiazepines, Opioids)Additive sedation and respiratory depression.Major
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Quinidine, Paroxetine)Increased dextromethorphan levels, increased toxicity risk.Moderate
CYP3A4 Inducers (Rifampicin, Carbamazepine)Decreased dextromethorphan efficacy.Moderate
Urinary Alkalinizers (Sodium Bicarbonate, Acetazolamide)Decreased renal excretion of dextromethorphan, increasing levels.Moderate
Anticholinergics (Atropine, Oxybutynin)Increased risk of constipation, urinary retention.Moderate

🔁 Alternatives to Bromdex-DM

Same composition (Bromhexine (4mg) + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (5mg) + Ammonium Chloride (50mg)), different brands:

Bro-Zedex TusQ-DX Cofdex-B Ascoril-D