alcold bm syrup - Bromhexine (4mg) + Chlorpheniramine Maleate (2mg) medicine

Alcold BM Syrup: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Esquire Drug House 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 16, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Established for symptomatic relief of cough and cold; evidence for combination is based on individual components.
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

  • Difficulty breathing or swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat
  • Severe drowsiness or confusion
  • Blood in cough or vomit
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is alcold bm syrup used for?

This medicine is a combination syrup containing bromhexine (mucolytic) and chlorpheniramine maleate (antihistamine) used for relief of cough, mucus, and allergic symptoms. It works by thinning mucus and blocking histamine. It can cause drowsiness, so avoid driving. Take as prescribed by your doctor.

  • Generic Name: Bromhexine + Chlorpheniramine Maleate
  • Manufacturer: Esquire Drug House
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 alcold bm syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा ब्रोमहेक्सिन और क्लोरफेनिरामाइन मेलिएट का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग कफ, बलगम और एलर्जी के लक्षणों जैसे छींक, नाक बहना और आंखों में पानी आना के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। ब्रोमहेक्सिन बलगम को पतला करता है जिससे उसे खांसकर बाहर निकालना आसान हो जाता है, और क्लोरफेनिरामाइन एलर्जी को कम करता है। यह दवा नींद ला सकती है, इसलिए वाहन चलाने से बचें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, मुंह सूखना, चक्कर आना और जी मिचलाना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी, तेज धड़कन या भ्रम हो सकता है। यदि सांस लेने में कठिनाई, चेहरे या गले में सूजन हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। खुराक से अधिक न लें। नींद आ सकती है, इसलिए वाहन चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। शराब का सेवन न करें। यदि आपको ग्लूकोमा, प्रोस्टेट की समस्या, अस्थमा, या लीवर/किडनी की बीमारी है तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। 7 दिनों से अधिक उपयोग न करें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 alcold bm syrup Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Productive cough with thick mucus","description":"Helps loosen and thin mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough out.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Relieves sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes due to allergies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Common cold with cough and congestion","description":"Provides symptomatic relief of cough and nasal congestion associated with the common cold.","evidence":"Established"}]

Off-label uses: []

Primary treatment for: Cough and cold with allergic rhinitis

Also treats: Productive cough, Allergic rhinitis, Common cold

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Bromhexine + Chlorpheniramine Maleate
Brand NameAus-Q Tablet
ManufacturerEsquire Drug House
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action ClassMucolytic + Antihistamine
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep the bottle tightly closed.
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 or milk to reduce stomach upset.
2
Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
3
Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine.
4
Use a proper measuring cup or spoon to ensure accurate dosing.
5
Do not use for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor.
6
If you have high blood pressure, glaucoma, or prostate problems, inform your doctor before use.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Productive cough with thick mucus
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Sneezing and runny nose
This medicine helps with allergic symptoms.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionBromhexine is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Chlorpheniramine maleate is also well absorbed orally, with peak plasma levels reached within 2 to 6 hours.
DistributionBromhexine is widely distributed to tissues, including the lungs. Chlorpheniramine is distributed throughout the body and crosses the blood-brain barrier, which explains its sedative effects.
Protein BindingBromhexine is approximately 95% bound to plasma proteins. Chlorpheniramine is about 72% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismBromhexine undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver, primarily by CYP3A4, to active metabolites. Chlorpheniramine is metabolized in the liver by CYP2D6 and other enzymes.
Half-LifeBromhexine has a terminal half-life of about 6.5 hours. Chlorpheniramine has a half-life of 12 to 43 hours, with an average of about 20 hours.
ExcretionBromhexine metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine. Chlorpheniramine and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine.
BioavailabilityBromhexine oral bioavailability is about 75-80% due to first-pass metabolism. Chlorpheniramine oral bioavailability is approximately 25-50%.
Onset of ActionBromhexine's mucolytic effect begins within 30 minutes to 1 hour. Chlorpheniramine's antihistamine effect starts within 30 to 60 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimeBromhexine peak plasma concentration occurs at about 1 hour. Chlorpheniramine peak plasma levels are reached in 2 to 6 hours.
Duration of ActionBromhexine's effect lasts about 6 to 8 hours. Chlorpheniramine's effects last 4 to 6 hours, but drowsiness may persist longer.

How It Works

Bromhexine is a mucolytic that reduces the viscosity of mucus by breaking down acidic mucopolysaccharide fibers, thereby facilitating its removal from the respiratory tract. Chlorpheniramine maleate is a first-generation antihistamine that competitively blocks histamine H1 receptors, reducing allergic symptoms such as sneezing, rhinorrhea, and lacrimation. It also has anticholinergic properties that contribute to dry mouth and urinary retention.

Mechanism Steps

1
Bromhexine breaks down mucus: Bromhexine depolymerizes acidic mucopolysaccharide fibers in mucus, reducing its thickness and making it easier to expel.
2
Chlorpheniramine blocks histamine: Chlorpheniramine competitively binds to H1 receptors, preventing histamine from triggering allergy symptoms like sneezing and runny nose.
3
Anticholinergic action: Chlorpheniramine also blocks acetylcholine receptors, leading to reduced secretions and side effects like dry mouth.

💡 How to Take alcold bm syrup

Strength: Each 5 mL contains Bromhexine 4 mg and Chlorpheniramine Maleate 2 mg.

1Shake the bottle well before use.
2Use a measuring cup or spoon to measure the dose accurately.
3Take orally with or without food.
4Follow the prescribed dose and frequency.
5Do not exceed the recommended dose.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is 5-10 mL (1-2 teaspoons) every 4 to 6 hours as needed, not to exceed 6 doses in 24 hours. 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 sedative and anticholinergic effects. Use with caution and consider lower doses. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult your doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in hepatic impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseFor adults, the maximum daily dose is 60 mL (12 teaspoons) in 24 hours. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases drowsiness and dizziness.

⏰ 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 alcold bm syrup

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (10-20%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery. If persistent, consult your doctor.
Dry mouth (Common (5-10%))
Sip water or chew sugarless gum. Consult doctor if severe.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Rise slowly from sitting or lying position. Avoid alcohol.
Nausea (Uncommon (1-5%))
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency medical help immediately if you experience swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing.
Fast or irregular heartbeat (Rare (<0.1%))
Contact your doctor immediately if you notice palpitations or chest discomfort.
Hallucinations or confusion (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop the medicine and seek medical attention if you experience confusion or see things that are not there.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Blood dyscrasias
Report unusual bruising or bleeding to your doctor.
Liver enzyme elevation
Inform your doctor if you notice yellowing of eyes or skin.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAO inhibitors Major
Alcohol Major
Benzodiazepines Moderate
Tricyclic antidepressants Moderate
Fluoxetine Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • MAO inhibitors
  • CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Anticholinergics (e.g., atropine, tricyclic antidepressants)
  • CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can significantly increase drowsiness, dizziness, and impairment of motor skills. Combining alcohol with chlorpheniramine can also increase the risk of respiratory depression.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to bromhexine or chlorpheniramine","Newborns and premature infants","Narrow-angle glaucoma","Urinary retention due to prostatic hypertrophy","Severe liver disease","MAO inhibitor therapy within 14 days"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Use with caution in patients with asthma, glaucoma, or prostatic hypertrophy.","Do not use for chronic cough without medical evaluation.","Not recommended for children under 2 years without medical advice."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Chlorpheniramine passes into breast milk and may cause drowsiness in the infant. Bromhexine is also excreted in breast milk. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, tachycardia, and seizures. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage may be considered if within 1-2 hours of ingestion. Monitor vital signs and provide supportive care.

⏰ 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. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as it can cause drowsiness. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Inform your doctor if you have glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, difficulty urinating, asthma, or liver or kidney disease. Do not use this medicine for longer than 7 days without consulting a doctor. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before use.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the sedative and anticholinergic effects of chlorpheniramine. Use with caution and consider lower doses. Monitor for confusion, urinary retention, and falls.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

Consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of this combination in pregnancy is not well established.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

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

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it can cause dry mouth and may interact with sedatives used during dental procedures.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated to help thin mucus.
🥗
Use a humidifier to ease breathing.
😴
Avoid allergens like dust and pollen.
💧
Get plenty of rest to support recovery.
🧘
Wash hands frequently to prevent infections.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise while taking this medicine because it can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Light activity is fine if you feel up to it.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink warm fluids like soup and tea.
Include vitamin C rich foods.
Avoid cold drinks and ice cream.
Eat light, easily digestible meals.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause drowsiness, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is best to avoid these 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 symptoms persist beyond 7 days, worsen, or if you experience any serious side effects. Do not stop abruptly if you have been taking it for a long time without medical advice.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended without medical supervision. Prolonged use of chlorpheniramine may lead to tolerance and increased side effects. Bromhexine is generally well tolerated for short-term use. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function may be advised if used for extended periods.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Steam inhalation

Helps loosen mucus and relieve congestion.

Evidence: Traditional
Saline nasal rinse

Can help clear nasal passages.

Evidence: Established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific interactions with vaccines are known. However, if you are scheduled for a vaccine, inform your doctor about this medicine.

📦 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

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from direct sunlight. If traveling across time zones, continue your regular dosing schedule as prescribed. 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.

👤 A 35-year-old man with seasonal allergies and productive cough
He was prescribed this medicine for his cough and runny nose. He took it as directed and noticed relief within a day. He experienced mild drowsiness, so he avoided driving. He was advised to stop after 5 days as symptoms improved.
💡 Lesson: This medicine effectively relieves cough and allergy symptoms but can cause drowsiness; avoid driving and follow the prescribed duration.
👤 A 28-year-old woman with common cold and thick mucus
She started this medicine and found that her cough became more productive and easier to clear. She took it with food to prevent nausea. She was careful not to exceed the dose and stopped after 4 days when symptoms resolved.
💡 Lesson: Taking with food improves tolerability, and limiting use to a few days prevents unnecessary side effects.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts working within 30 to 60 minutes after taking a dose.

Q: Can I take it on an empty stomach?

A: It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food reduces the chance of stomach upset.

Q: Is it safe for children?

A: Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • 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 alcold bm syrup

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 any type of cough.
    Fact: It is only for productive cough with mucus and allergic symptoms. It is not effective for dry cough or infections requiring antibiotics.
  • Myth: It is safe to take with alcohol.
    Fact: Alcohol increases drowsiness and can be dangerous. Avoid alcohol completely.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Bromhexine + Chlorpheniramine Maleate syrup (various manufacturers)

Brand Alternatives

  • Alcold BM Syrup

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Alcold BM Syrup","composition":"Bromhexine 4mg + Chlorpheniramine 2mg","primary_use":"Productive cough with allergy"},{"medicine":"Bromhexine + Dextromethorphan","composition":"Bromhexine + Dextromethorphan","primary_use":"Dry cough"}]

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