Ascodex Cough Syrup: Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, and Safety
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 shortness of breath
- Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Severe rash, blistering, or peeling skin
- Chest pain or palpitations
- Confusion, hallucinations, or severe drowsiness
- Blood in vomit or black, tarry stools
- Cough lasting more than 7 days or worsening
- Fever, rash, or persistent headache accompanying cough
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is aldrex syrup used for?
This medicine is a combination cough syrup containing bromhexine (a mucolytic) and dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant). It is used for short-term relief of dry, irritating cough in adults and children over 12 years. It works by thinning mucus and reducing the cough reflex. Do not use for more than 7 days without medical advice.
- Generic Name: Bromhexine + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide
- Manufacturer: Alkem Laboratories Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 aldrex syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा ब्रोंकाइटिस, सर्दी-खांसी और श्वसन तंत्र में जलन के कारण होने वाली सूखी खांसी के इलाज में उपयोग की जाती है। इसमें ब्रोमहेक्सिन और डेक्सट्रोमेथोर्फन दो सक्रिय तत्व होते हैं। ब्रोमहेक्सिन बलगम को पतला करता है जिससे वह आसानी से निकल जाता है, और डेक्सट्रोमेथोर्फन दिमाग में खांसी के केंद्र को शांत करके खांसी को रोकता है। यह दवा 12 साल से बड़े बच्चों और वयस्कों के लिए है। इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना 7 दिन से ज्यादा नहीं लेना चाहिए।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, जी मिचलाना, उल्टी, पेट में असहजता और सूखा मुंह शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और कुछ समय में ठीक हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन अगर आपको त्वचा पर चकत्ते, सूजन, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, या दिल की धड़कन तेज होने जैसी समस्या हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। खुराक या अवधि न बढ़ाएं। अगर आपको नींद या चक्कर आते हैं तो वाहन न चलाएं और मशीनरी से दूर रहें। शराब का सेवन बिल्कुल न करें। अगर आप गर्भवती हैं, स्तनपान करा रही हैं, या आपको लिवर या किडनी की बीमारी है, तो डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। 12 साल से छोटे बच्चों को बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के यह दवा न दें। अगर खांसी 7 दिन से ज्यादा रहे या बुखार, दाने या सिरदर्द के साथ बढ़े, तो दवा बंद करें और डॉक्टर से मिलें।
💊 aldrex syrup Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Dry, irritating cough","description":"This medicine provides symptomatic relief of non-productive cough by suppressing the cough reflex and thinning mucus.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Cough associated with common cold","description":"Used to reduce cough frequency and severity in viral upper respiratory tract infections.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Cough due to mild respiratory tract irritation","description":"Helps alleviate cough caused by inhaled irritants or mild bronchitis.","evidence":"Moderate"}]
Off-label uses: []
Primary treatment for: Dry cough
Also treats: Common cold, Upper respiratory tract infection, Mild bronchitis
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Bromhexine + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide |
| Brand Name | Ascodex Cough Syrup |
| Manufacturer | Alkem Laboratories Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | RESPIRATORY |
| Action Class | Mucolytic and Antitussive |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate. Keep the bottle tightly closed. |
| 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
This medicine combines two active ingredients with complementary actions. Bromhexine is a mucolytic agent that reduces the viscosity of mucus by breaking down acidic mucopolysaccharide fibers in bronchial secretions, thereby facilitating mucus clearance. Dextromethorphan hydrobromide is a centrally acting cough suppressant that acts on the cough center in the medulla oblongata. It binds to sigma-1 receptors and possibly NMDA receptors, but its primary antitussive effect is mediated through agonism at sigma-1 receptors and antagonism at NMDA receptors, leading to elevation of the cough threshold. Together, they reduce cough frequency and make mucus easier to expel.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take aldrex syrup
Strength: Syrup: Bromhexine 4 mg + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 5 mg per 5 mL.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is 10 mL (two teaspoons) orally every 4 to 6 hours, not to exceed 60 mL in 24 hours. However, the exact dose and frequency must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and severity of symptoms. Do not self-medicate or exceed the prescribed dose. Use the measuring cup or spoon provided with the product to ensure accurate dosing. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients (above 65 years) may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness and dizziness. Use with caution and consider a lower starting dose. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal and hepatic function. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with severe renal impairment, dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In patients with severe hepatic impairment, dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose for adults is 60 mL of syrup (containing bromhexine 48 mg and dextromethorphan hydrobromide 60 mg) in 24 hours. Do not exceed this dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of aldrex syrup
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| MAO inhibitors | Major | |
| SSRIs | Major | |
| CYP2D6 inhibitors | Major | |
| Alcohol | Moderate | |
| Benzodiazepines | Moderate | |
| Opioids | Moderate | |
| Antihistamines (sedating) | Moderate | |
| Amiodarone | Moderate | |
| Haloperidol | Moderate | |
| Propafenone | Moderate |
🚨 Major Interactions
- MAO inhibitors (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine)
- SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine)
- CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., quinidine, fluoxetine)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids)
- Antihistamines (sedating)
- Amiodarone, haloperidol, propafenone
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be strictly avoided while taking this medicine. Both dextromethorphan and alcohol are central nervous system depressants, and their combined use can lead to excessive drowsiness, dizziness, impaired judgment, and increased risk of accidents. Alcohol may also increase the risk of liver toxicity, especially with bromhexine. Do not drive or operate machinery if you have consumed alcohol.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Hypersensitivity to bromhexine, dextromethorphan, or any component of the formulation","Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors or within 14 days of stopping MAO inhibitor therapy","Severe hepatic impairment","Severe renal impairment","Children under 12 years of age (unless prescribed by a doctor)","Productive cough with excessive mucus (may impair mucus clearance)"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of use.","Avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience drowsiness or dizziness.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Use with caution in patients with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory conditions.","Consult a doctor if cough persists for more than 7 days, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache.","Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease.","Do not use in children under 12 years without medical advice.","Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.","Keep out of reach of children.","Do not use if the seal is broken or if the syrup has changed color or consistency."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Not established from the available information. It is not known whether bromhexine or dextromethorphan are excreted in human breast milk. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, hallucinations, confusion, rapid heartbeat, and in severe cases, respiratory depression, seizures, and coma. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote for bromhexine or dextromethorphan. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion is recent. 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
Always follow the dose and duration prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose or use this medicine for longer than 7 days without medical advice. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel drowsy or dizzy after taking this medicine. Do not consume alcohol while taking this product, as it can increase drowsiness and impair judgment. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Do not use this medicine in children under 12 years without a doctor's guidance. If you have a history of liver or kidney disease, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), consult your doctor before use. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Do not use this medicine if the seal is broken or if the syrup has changed color or consistency. If your cough persists for more than 7 days, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache, stop the medicine and consult a doctor.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. Use with caution and consider a lower starting dose. Monitor for falls and avoid driving. Consult a doctor for dose adjustment based on renal and hepatic function.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. The safety of bromhexine and dextromethorphan during pregnancy is not well established. Use only if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
After surgery, cough suppression may be beneficial to prevent strain on surgical sites, but consult your surgeon before using this medicine. It may interact with anesthetics and other medications. Use only under medical supervision.
🦷 Dental Procedures
If you are undergoing dental procedures, inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine. Dry mouth is a common side effect and may affect dental work. Also, cough suppression may be beneficial during dental procedures, but consult your dentist.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise if you feel drowsy or dizzy after taking this medicine. Light activity is fine if you feel well. Listen to your body and rest when needed.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine can cause drowsiness and dizziness, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. It is best to take it when you can rest. If you need to work, inform your supervisor if you feel drowsy.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop taking this medicine and consult a doctor if your cough persists for more than 7 days, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache. Also stop if you experience any serious side effects such as allergic reactions, hallucinations, or severe drowsiness. Do not stop abruptly if you have been taking it for a long time without consulting your doctor.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended. Prolonged use of dextromethorphan can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. Bromhexine long-term use may cause gastrointestinal disturbances. If your cough persists for more than 7 days, consult a doctor to rule out underlying conditions. Do not use this medicine for chronic cough without medical evaluation.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Can soothe throat irritation and reduce cough frequency.
Evidence: Well-established for symptomatic reliefHelps loosen mucus and relieve congestion.
Evidence: Commonly used, limited evidenceCan help clear nasal passages and reduce postnasal drip.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are unwell with a cough, it is best to postpone vaccination until you recover, as per your doctor's advice.
📦 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
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children
❌ DON'T
Do not use after expiry date
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Bring a copy of your prescription in case of customs checks. Store it at room temperature and protect it from direct sunlight. If traveling across time zones, continue your regular dosing schedule as prescribed; do not double doses. Keep the bottle tightly closed and upright to prevent leakage. If you are flying, pack it in your carry-on luggage if you need it during the flight, but check local regulations regarding liquid medicines.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine usually starts working within 15-30 minutes after taking a dose. The cough suppressant effect lasts about 4-6 hours.
A: Yes, you can take it with or without food. Taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.
A: Consult your doctor before taking this medicine during pregnancy. The safety is not well established.
A: 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.
A: This medicine is intended for dry, irritating cough. It may not be suitable for productive cough with thick mucus. Consult your doctor.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for aldrex syrup
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
vistadex capsuleCadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹10.31 60% CHEAPER
-
vistadex syrupCadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹14.65 43.2% CHEAPER
-
p dex syrupMen-Care Pharmaceuticals ₹20.00 22.4% CHEAPER
-
ascodex cough syrupGlenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹21.68 15.9% CHEAPER
-
imcuf dmr syrupImmuna Life Sciences ₹31.88 23.7% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure any type of cough.
Fact: This medicine is only for dry, irritating cough. It is not effective for productive cough with thick mucus, and may be harmful in such cases. - Myth: It is safe to take this medicine for weeks.
Fact: This medicine should not be used for more than 7 days without medical advice. Prolonged use may mask underlying conditions. - Myth: You can take this medicine with alcohol.
Fact: Alcohol increases the risk of drowsiness, dizziness, and other CNS side effects. Avoid alcohol completely. - Myth: This medicine is safe for children under 12.
Fact: This medicine is not recommended for children under 12 years without a doctor's prescription.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Bromhexine + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Syrup (various manufacturers)
Brand Alternatives
- Ascodex Cough Syrup (Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd)