afex tablet - Terbutaline (2.5mg) + Bromhexine (4mg) medicine

Afex Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

No reviews yet
🏭 Eden Healthcare Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 16, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 16, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Blood in sputum or vomit
  • Severe chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Irregular or rapid heartbeat
  • Severe headache with visual changes
  • Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is afex tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination of Terbutaline and Bromhexine used to treat bronchospasm and thick mucus in conditions like asthma and bronchitis. It works by relaxing airway muscles and thinning mucus.

  • Generic Name: Terbutaline + Bromhexine
  • Manufacturer: Eden Healthcare Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 afex tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा टर्ब्यूटलीन और ब्रोमहेक्सिन का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग अस्थमा, ब्रोंकाइटिस और अन्य श्वसन संबंधी समस्याओं में सांस लेने में कठिनाई और बलगम को कम करने के लिए किया जाता है। यह वायुमार्ग की मांसपेशियों को आराम देकर और बलगम को पतला करके काम करती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में कंपन, घबराहट, सिरदर्द, धड़कन बढ़ना और जी मिचलाना शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और कुछ समय में ठीक हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन यदि आपको सीने में दर्द, सांस लेने में तकलीफ, या एलर्जी की प्रतिक्रिया हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। खुराक से अधिक न लें। यदि आपको हृदय रोग, उच्च रक्तचाप, मधुमेह, थायरॉइड या गुर्दे/यकृत की समस्या है तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। इस दवा के साथ शराब न लें। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं तो डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? The Indian pharmaceutical market is expected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

💊 afex tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Bronchial asthma","description":"Used to relieve bronchospasm and facilitate breathing in patients with asthma.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Bronchitis","description":"Helps in loosening mucus and relieving cough in acute and chronic bronchitis.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)","description":"Provides symptomatic relief by relaxing airways and thinning mucus.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Productive cough","description":"Aids in clearing thick mucus from the respiratory tract.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Not established from the available information.","description":"Not established from the available information.","evidence":"Not established from the available information."}]

Primary treatment for: Bronchial asthma

Also treats: Bronchitis, COPD, Productive cough

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Terbutaline + Bromhexine
Brand NameAskafex TR Suspension
ManufacturerEden Healthcare Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action ClassBronchodilator + Mucolytic
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with food to reduce stomach upset.
2
Stay well hydrated throughout the day to help thin mucus.
3
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
4
Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
5
Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days.
6
Report any unusual heart palpitations or tremors to your doctor.
7
If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels regularly as this medicine may affect them.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Wheezing
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Productive cough
This medicine helps in thinning mucus.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionTerbutaline is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Bromhexine is also rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. However, oral bioavailability of terbutaline is reduced due to first-pass metabolism.
DistributionTerbutaline distributes widely into body tissues, including the lungs. Bromhexine and its metabolites are distributed to various tissues, with high concentrations in the lungs, liver, and kidneys.
Protein BindingTerbutaline is approximately 25% bound to plasma proteins. Bromhexine is extensively bound to plasma proteins (approximately 95%).
MetabolismTerbutaline undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver, primarily by conjugation to sulfate and glucuronide metabolites. Bromhexine is metabolized in the liver to several metabolites, including ambroxol.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of terbutaline is approximately 3 to 4 hours. The elimination half-life of bromhexine is approximately 1 to 2 hours.
ExcretionTerbutaline and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine. Bromhexine and its metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine and to a lesser extent in feces.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of terbutaline is approximately 10-15% due to first-pass metabolism. The oral bioavailability of bromhexine is approximately 70-80%.
Onset of ActionBronchodilation from terbutaline occurs within 30 minutes after oral administration. Mucolytic effect of bromhexine may take a few hours to become noticeable.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations of terbutaline are reached within 2 to 4 hours after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations of bromhexine are reached within 1 to 2 hours.
Duration of ActionThe bronchodilator effect of terbutaline lasts for approximately 4 to 6 hours. The mucolytic effect of bromhexine lasts for several hours.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients with complementary actions. Terbutaline is a selective beta-2 adrenergic receptor agonist that binds to beta-2 receptors on bronchial smooth muscle, leading to relaxation and bronchodilation. Bromhexine is a mucolytic agent that reduces the viscosity of mucus by depolymerizing mucopolysaccharide fibers, thereby facilitating its expulsion from the respiratory tract.

Mechanism Steps

1
Beta-2 receptor activation: Terbutaline binds to beta-2 adrenergic receptors on bronchial smooth muscle cells, activating intracellular cyclic AMP signaling.
2
Bronchial smooth muscle relaxation: Increased cyclic AMP leads to relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle, resulting in bronchodilation and easier breathing.
3
Mucolytic action of Bromhexine: Bromhexine breaks down acidic mucopolysaccharide fibers in mucus, reducing its viscosity and making it easier to cough up.
4
Enhanced mucociliary clearance: The combined effect of bronchodilation and mucus thinning helps clear airways and improve respiratory function.

💡 How to Take afex tablet

Strength: Each tablet contains Terbutaline 2.5 mg and Bromhexine 4 mg.

1Take this medicine orally with a glass of water.
2Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
3Take it with food to reduce stomach upset.
4Follow the dosage schedule prescribed by your doctor.
5Do not take more than the prescribed dose.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is one tablet taken orally two to three times a day, or as directed by your physician. The dose may vary depending on the severity of the condition and your response to treatment. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially cardiovascular effects. Use with caution and dose adjustment may be required. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is 3 tablets (7.5 mg terbutaline and 12 mg bromhexine) in divided doses. Do not exceed this dose without medical advice.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Caffeine
Limit
May increase nervousness and tremors.
Alcohol
Avoid
May increase drowsiness and cardiovascular effects.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of afex tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Tremors (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves with continued use. If bothersome, consult your doctor.
Nervousness (Common (5-10%))
Try relaxation techniques. Consult doctor if persistent.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. Use over-the-counter pain relief if needed, but consult doctor first.
Palpitations (Common (5-10%))
Report to your doctor if you have heart conditions or if palpitations are severe.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food to reduce stomach upset.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Chest pain or irregular heartbeat (Rare (<0.1%))
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience chest pain, palpitations, or irregular heartbeat.
Severe hypokalemia (Rare (<0.1%))
Report muscle weakness, cramps, or fatigue to your doctor.
Paradoxical bronchospasm (Rare (<0.1%))
If breathing worsens after taking this medicine, seek immediate medical help.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Restlessness
Consult your doctor if it interferes with daily activities.
Sleep disturbances
Avoid taking close to bedtime. Consult doctor if persistent.
Muscle cramps
Stay hydrated and report to doctor if severe.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Propranolol Major
MAOIs Major
Tricyclic antidepressants Major
Furosemide Moderate
Corticosteroids Moderate
Theophylline Moderate
Digoxin Minor
Anticholinergics Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Non-selective beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol)
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Diuretics (e.g., furosemide)
  • Corticosteroids
  • Xanthine derivatives (e.g., theophylline)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the sedative effects and cardiovascular side effects of this medicine. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to terbutaline, bromhexine, or any component of the formulation","Severe cardiovascular disease","Hyperthyroidism","Diabetes mellitus (uncontrolled)","Severe hepatic or renal impairment"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, including coronary insufficiency, arrhythmias, and hypertension.","May cause hypokalemia; monitor potassium levels, especially in patients on diuretics or corticosteroids.","May cause tremors and nervousness; advise patients to avoid driving or operating machinery if affected.","Not recommended for use in children under 12 years without medical advice.","Do not exceed the recommended dose.","Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Terbutaline is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Bromhexine is also likely excreted in breast milk. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe tachycardia, tremors, palpitations, hypokalemia, and hypotension. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Monitor cardiac function and electrolyte levels.

⏰ 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 the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Inform your doctor if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems, or liver or kidney disease. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it may increase drowsiness and heart rate. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel dizzy or shaky. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the cardiovascular effects of this medicine. Use with caution and monitor heart rate and blood pressure regularly.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist if you are taking this medicine before surgery. It may interact with certain anesthetic agents.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it may cause dry mouth or interact with certain dental medications.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce respiratory effort.
🥗
Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
😴
Practice breathing exercises regularly.
💧
Stay hydrated to help thin mucus.
🧘
Get adequate rest and sleep.
🌞
Avoid allergens and pollutants that trigger symptoms.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise if you experience tremors, palpitations, or dizziness after taking this medicine. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include plenty of fluids to help thin mucus.
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Limit processed and fried foods.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause tremors or dizziness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. It may also cause nervousness, which can impact your concentration.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects or your symptoms worsen, contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor will advise you on whether to stop or adjust the dose.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine should be monitored by a doctor. It may cause tremors, palpitations, and hypokalemia. Regular monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, and potassium levels may be required. Do not use for prolonged periods without medical supervision.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Steam inhalation

Can help loosen mucus and ease breathing.

Evidence: Limited
Chest physiotherapy

Helps clear mucus from airways.

Evidence: Moderate
Avoiding triggers

Reducing exposure to allergens and pollutants can help prevent symptoms.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Consult your doctor about vaccinations, especially influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, which are recommended for patients with respiratory conditions.

📦 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 your prescription. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, adjust your dosing schedule accordingly, but consult your doctor for specific advice. Keep enough supply for your trip and carry it in your hand luggage.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 45-year-old office worker with chronic bronchitis
Started this medicine as prescribed for chronic bronchitis. Within a few days, noticed significant improvement in breathing and easier coughing up of mucus. Emphasized taking with food to prevent stomach upset.
💡 Lesson: Consistency with prescribed dose and taking with food improves both efficacy and tolerability.
👤 A 60-year-old retired teacher with asthma
Used this medicine during asthma exacerbations. Found relief from wheezing and chest tightness. Experienced mild tremors initially, which subsided after a week. Advised to avoid caffeine to reduce tremors.
💡 Lesson: Side effects like tremors are usually temporary and can be managed by avoiding caffeine and consulting the doctor if persistent.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 30 minutes to an hour after taking it. However, the full effect may take a few hours.

Q: Can I take it with other medicines?

A: Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, as this medicine can interact with certain drugs like beta-blockers, MAOIs, and diuretics.

Q: Is it safe during pregnancy?

A: Consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy. It should be used only if clearly needed and prescribed.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my heart?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for afex tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure asthma.
    Fact: This medicine provides symptomatic relief but does not cure asthma. It should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
  • Myth: It is safe to take extra doses for faster relief.
    Fact: Taking more than the prescribed dose can lead to serious side effects. Always follow your doctor's instructions.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Terbutaline + Bromhexine combination tablets from other manufacturers

Brand Alternatives

  • Afex Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Terbutaline 2.5 mg + Bromhexine 4 mg","key_difference":"Combines bronchodilation with mucolytic action."},{"medicine":"Terbutaline + Ambroxol","composition":"Terbutaline + Ambroxol","key_difference":"Ambroxol is a metabolite of bromhexine with similar mucolytic action."},{"medicine":"Salbutamol + Bromhexine","composition":"Salbutamol + Bromhexine","key_difference":"Salbutamol is another beta-2 agonist with similar effects."}]

😊 Was this information helpful?

Browse Medicines A-Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Back to Medicines Directory