Phenergan Plus Syrup: Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Severe abdominal pain or vomiting blood
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Seizures or severe dizziness
- Decreased urine output
- High fever unresponsive to treatment
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is acepam syrup used for?
This medicine is a combination syrup containing paracetamol and promethazine. It is used to relieve symptoms of allergies, cold, and cough, and to reduce fever and pain. It works by blocking histamine and reducing pain signals in the brain. It should be taken as prescribed, usually every 4-6 hours, and should not be used for more than a few days without medical advice.
- Generic Name: Paracetamol (125mg) + Promethazine (2.5mg)
- Manufacturer: Medicross Pharmaceuticals
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 acepam syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा एलर्जी, सर्दी-खांसी, बुखार और दर्द में राहत के लिए दी जाती है। इसमें पैरासिटामोल और प्रोमेथाज़ीन होते हैं, जो मिलकर खुजली, छींक, नाक बहना और शरीर दर्द को कम करते हैं। यह सिरप बच्चों और बड़ों दोनों के लिए उपयुक्त है, लेकिन डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना लंबे समय तक नहीं लेनी चाहिए।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, मुँह सूखना, धुंधली दृष्टि और जी मिचलाना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन एलर्जी, लीवर की समस्या या खून की बीमारी हो सकती है। अगर त्वचा पीली पड़े, पेशाब गहरा हो या सांस लेने में तकलीफ हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। शराब और अन्य नींद लाने वाली दवाओं से बचें। गाड़ी चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। बच्चों को 2 साल से कम उम्र में न दें। लंबे समय तक बिना सलाह के न लें।
💊 acepam syrup Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Relieves sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watery eyes associated with seasonal or perennial allergies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Common cold","description":"Helps reduce fever, body aches, and nasal congestion, and provides mild sedation to promote rest.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Cough","description":"May help suppress cough through sedative and antihistamine effects, though evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Nausea and vomiting","description":"Promethazine component provides antiemetic effect, useful in various conditions.","evidence":"Well-established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Insomnia","description":"Sometimes used off-label for short-term management of insomnia due to sedative effects.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Motion sickness","description":"Promethazine is effective for motion sickness, but combination with paracetamol is not standard.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Allergic rhinitis
Also treats: Common cold, Cough, Nausea and vomiting
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Paracetamol (125mg) + Promethazine (2.5mg) |
| Brand Name | acepam syrup |
| Manufacturer | Medicross Pharmaceuticals |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | RESPIRATORY |
| Action Class | |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep the bottle tightly closed. Do not refrigerate unless specified. Keep out of reach of children. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
Paracetamol acts primarily in the central nervous system to reduce pain and fever, though its exact mechanism is not fully understood. It may inhibit prostaglandin synthesis in the brain and modulate pain pathways. Promethazine is a first-generation antihistamine that blocks histamine H1 receptors, leading to reduced allergic symptoms. It also has anticholinergic and sedative effects by crossing the blood-brain barrier and blocking central H1 receptors, which contributes to drowsiness and antiemetic action.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take acepam syrup
Strength: Each 5 mL of syrup contains Paracetamol 125 mg and Promethazine 2.5 mg.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose is 10-15 mL (2-3 teaspoons) every 4-6 hours as needed for symptoms, not to exceed 4 doses in 24 hours. However, dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Follow your doctor's instructions exactly. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing based on age and weight. This medicine is contraindicated in children under 2 years due to risk of respiratory depression. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the sedative and anticholinergic effects of promethazine. Use with caution and consider lower doses. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal and hepatic function. |
| Renal Impairment | Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Paracetamol dose should be reduced or avoided in severe liver disease. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | For adults, the maximum daily dose of paracetamol should not exceed 4000 mg (equivalent to 32 mL of this syrup) from all sources. Promethazine maximum daily dose should not exceed 100 mg. Do not exceed the recommended dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of acepam syrup
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Warfarin | Major | |
| Alcohol | Major | |
| MAOIs | Major | |
| Benzodiazepines | Moderate | |
| Tricyclic antidepressants | Moderate | |
| Fluoxetine | Moderate | |
| Rifampin | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor | |
| Activated charcoal | Minor | |
| Grapefruit juice | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Alcohol
- Other CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids)
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Warfarin
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine, tricyclic antidepressants)
- CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine)
- CYP2D6 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine)
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can enhance the sedative effects of promethazine and increase the risk of liver toxicity from paracetamol. Concurrent use may lead to severe drowsiness, respiratory depression, and potential liver damage.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Hypersensitivity to paracetamol, promethazine, or any component of the formulation.","Severe liver impairment or active liver disease.","Severe kidney impairment.","Children under 2 years of age (due to risk of respiratory depression).","Patients with asthma or severe respiratory depression.","Patients with glaucoma or prostatic hypertrophy (due to anticholinergic effects).","Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors."]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Do not exceed recommended dose; risk of liver damage from paracetamol.","Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased sensitivity to anticholinergic effects.","May cause urinary retention; caution in patients with prostatic hypertrophy.","May lower seizure threshold; use with caution in epileptic patients.","Do not use for prolonged periods without medical supervision.","Consult doctor if symptoms persist or worsen."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Paracetamol is considered safe during breastfeeding. Promethazine may pass into breast milk and could cause drowsiness in the infant. Use with caution and consult your doctor.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose can cause severe liver damage from paracetamol and severe CNS depression, respiratory depression, and cardiac arrhythmias from promethazine. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment includes activated charcoal if within 1-2 hours, N-acetylcysteine for paracetamol toxicity, and supportive care for promethazine overdose. Monitor liver and renal function, and provide symptomatic treatment.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose to catch up.
Additional Safety Advice
Do not exceed the recommended dose. Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants while taking this medicine. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Do not use for longer than directed without consulting a doctor. Keep out of reach of children. If you have liver or kidney disease, or a history of seizures, use with caution and under medical supervision. Do not take other products containing paracetamol while on this medicine to avoid overdose.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are more susceptible to the sedative and anticholinergic effects of promethazine, such as confusion, urinary retention, and falls. Use with caution and consider lower doses. Regular monitoring for adverse effects is recommended.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Paracetamol is generally considered safe, but promethazine should be used with caution, especially during the first trimester.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
After surgery, use this medicine with caution as it may increase sedation and respiratory depression, especially if combined with other sedatives. Consult your surgeon or anesthesiologist before use.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it may interact with anesthetics or other medications used during dental procedures. It may also cause dry mouth, which can affect dental health.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise or activities requiring alertness while taking this medicine due to the risk of drowsiness and dizziness. Light activities are fine if you feel up to it.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine can cause significant drowsiness, which may impair your ability to drive, operate machinery, or perform tasks requiring mental alertness. It is best to avoid such activities until you know how the medicine affects you. Inform your employer if your job requires alertness.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve within a few days, if they worsen, or if you experience any serious side effects. Do not stop abruptly if you have been taking it regularly for a long time without medical advice.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine can lead to tolerance to its sedative effects, and prolonged use of promethazine may cause tardive dyskinesia or other movement disorders. Paracetamol overuse can cause liver damage. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function is advised if used for extended periods. It is not intended for long-term use without medical supervision.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Can help relieve nasal congestion without medication.
Evidence: Well-establishedFor allergic eye symptoms, may be used instead of oral antihistamines.
Evidence: Well-establishedHelps loosen mucus and relieve cough.
Evidence: Limited💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
This medicine does not interact with vaccines. However, if you are scheduled for a vaccine, inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of the prescription. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If traveling across time zones, adjust dosing intervals as advised by your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying medications. Keep it in your carry-on luggage if flying.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine usually starts working within 30-60 minutes after oral administration.
A: You should avoid taking other products containing paracetamol to prevent overdose. Consult your doctor before combining with other cold medicines.
A: It is not recommended for children under 2 years. For older children, consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing.
A: Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, and nausea. Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention.
A: No, alcohol should be avoided as it increases the risk of sedation and liver damage.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for acepam syrup
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
synergan syrupBrussels Laboratories Pvt Ltd ₹15.00 46.7% CHEAPER
-
phenargan plus oral suspensionAbbott ₹16.17 42.5% CHEAPER
-
febrinil p 125 mg/2.5 mg syrupManeesh Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹16.48 41.4% CHEAPER
-
molzin tabletIntel Pharmaceuticals ₹18.75 33.3% CHEAPER
-
citazine suspensionOyster Labs Ltd ₹24.84 11.7% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure allergies permanently.
Fact: This medicine only provides symptomatic relief and does not cure allergies. - Myth: It is safe to take this medicine with alcohol.
Fact: Alcohol increases the risk of severe drowsiness and liver damage. - Myth: More medicine means faster relief.
Fact: Taking more than the recommended dose can cause serious harm, including liver damage.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Paracetamol + Promethazine syrup (various manufacturers)
Brand Alternatives
- Phenergan Plus Syrup