Avicof Syrup: Complete Medicine Guide for Cough and Allergy Relief
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 dizziness or fainting
- Fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat
- Inability to urinate or severe lower abdominal pain
- Confusion, hallucinations, or seizures
- Yellowing of skin or eyes, or dark urine
- Severe rash or hives
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is avicof syrup used for?
This medicine is a combination syrup containing Chlorpheniramine Maleate (an antihistamine) and Ammonium Chloride (an expectorant). It is used for temporary relief of cough, runny nose, sneezing, and other allergy symptoms. It works by blocking histamine and thinning mucus. It may cause drowsiness, so avoid driving. Do not use for more than 7 days without medical advice.
- Generic Name: Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Ammonium Chloride
- Manufacturer: Avalanche Pharmaceuticals
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 avicof syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा क्लोरफेनिरामाइन मेलिएट और अमोनियम क्लोराइड का संयोजन है। इसका उपयोग एलर्जी के कारण होने वाले नाक बहने, छींक आने, खुजली वाली आंखों और बलगम वाली खांसी में राहत के लिए किया जाता है। क्लोरफेनिरामाइन एलर्जी को कम करता है और अमोनियम क्लोराइड बलगम को पतला करके खांसी को आसान बनाता है। यह दवा नींद ला सकती है, इसलिए गाड़ी चलाने से बचें। इसका उपयोग 7 दिनों से अधिक न करें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, मुंह सूखना, चक्कर आना, जी मिचलाना और पेट खराब होना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में तेज धड़कन, पेशाब रुकना, भ्रम, और एलर्जी की गंभीर प्रतिक्रिया हो सकती है। यदि कोई गंभीर लक्षण दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। निर्धारित मात्रा से अधिक न लें। दवा लेने के बाद नींद आ सकती है, इसलिए वाहन चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। शराब का सेवन न करें। यदि आपको ग्लूकोमा, पेशाब की समस्या, लीवर या किडनी की बीमारी है तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। 7 दिनों से अधिक उपयोग न करें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।
💊 avicof syrup Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Relieves sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and throat irritation associated with seasonal or perennial allergies.","evidence":"Well-established for chlorpheniramine component"},{"condition":"Cough with excessive mucus","description":"Helps loosen bronchial secretions and makes cough more productive due to ammonium chloride expectorant action.","evidence":"Traditionally used; supportive evidence"},{"condition":"Postnasal drip","description":"Reduces mucus thickness and allergic symptoms contributing to postnasal drip and throat clearing.","evidence":"Common clinical use"},{"condition":"Common cold with allergic features","description":"Provides symptomatic relief of runny nose, sneezing, and cough in uncomplicated upper respiratory infections.","evidence":"Symptomatic use supported by guidelines for short-term relief"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Pruritus (itching) due to other causes","description":"Antihistamine component may relieve itching from insect bites or mild skin allergies, but syrup form is not ideal for topical itching.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Motion sickness","description":"Sedating antihistamines are sometimes used for motion sickness, but this combination is not specifically approved for this purpose.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Allergic rhinitis and cough with excessive mucus
Also treats: Common cold, Postnasal drip, Sinusitis (symptomatic relief)
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Ammonium Chloride |
| Brand Name | Avicof Syrup |
| Manufacturer | Avalanche Pharmaceuticals |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | RESPIRATORY |
| Action Class | Antihistamine + Expectorant |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed. Do not freeze. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture, or as indicated on the packaging. |
| 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
Chlorpheniramine Maleate competitively blocks histamine H1 receptors on effector cells, reducing allergic responses such as vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and sensory nerve stimulation. Ammonium Chloride is an expectorant that is thought to increase bronchial secretion volume and reduce mucus viscosity, aiding its expulsion through coughing. The combination provides symptomatic relief of allergy and cough.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take avicof syrup
Strength: Each 5 mL of syrup contains Chlorpheniramine Maleate 4 mg and Ammonium Chloride 125 mg.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose is 5 to 10 mL (1 to 2 teaspoons) every 4 to 6 hours as needed, not to exceed 6 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. This medicine is not recommended for children under 2 years of age. For children 2 to 12 years, dosing must be determined by a pediatrician based on weight and clinical condition. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients (above 65 years) are more sensitive to the anticholinergic and sedative effects of chlorpheniramine. Use with caution and consider lower doses. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal and hepatic function. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with renal impairment, chlorpheniramine clearance may be reduced. Ammonium chloride can worsen metabolic acidosis. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In patients with hepatic impairment, chlorpheniramine metabolism may be reduced, increasing the risk of side effects. Use with caution and consider dose reduction. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose for adults is 60 mL (12 teaspoons) in 24 hours, not to exceed 6 doses. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of avicof syrup
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| MAOIs | Major | |
| Alcohol | Major | |
| Benzodiazepines | Major | |
| Opioids | Major | |
| Tricyclic antidepressants | Major | |
| Fluoxetine | Moderate | |
| Paroxetine | Moderate | |
| Ketoconazole | Moderate | |
| Furosemide | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Central nervous system depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids)
- Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine, tricyclic antidepressants)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine)
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin)
- Diuretics (e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide)
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can significantly increase drowsiness, dizziness, and impairment of judgment and motor skills. Combining alcohol with chlorpheniramine can also increase the risk of central nervous system depression and respiratory depression.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity to chlorpheniramine, ammonium chloride, or any component of the formulation","Severe liver disease","Severe kidney disease","Narrow-angle glaucoma","Urinary retention or prostatic hypertrophy with residual urine","Severe asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (unless directed by a doctor)","MAOI therapy within the last 14 days","Children under 2 years of age (due to risk of severe respiratory depression)"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of confusion, dry mouth, and urinary retention.","Use with caution in patients with glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy, or urinary retention.","Do not use for chronic cough or cough with excessive secretions without medical advice.","Do not exceed recommended dose; overdose can cause serious toxicity.","Consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or are accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache.","Not recommended for children under 2 years of age.","Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before use."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Chlorpheniramine is excreted in breast milk and may cause drowsiness in the nursing infant. Ammonium chloride is also excreted in breast milk. This medicine is not recommended during breastfeeding unless the potential benefit outweighs the risk. Consult your doctor.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose can cause severe drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, respiratory depression, and cardiac arrhythmias. Ammonium chloride overdose can cause metabolic acidosis, hyperchloremia, and hypokalemia. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote. If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a healthcare professional.
⏰ 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
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness. Inform your doctor if you have glaucoma, prostate enlargement, urinary retention, liver disease, kidney disease, or breathing problems. Do not use this medicine for longer than 7 days without medical advice. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, 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, including confusion, dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. Use with caution and consider lower doses. Regular monitoring for side effects is recommended.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. The safety of this combination during pregnancy is not well established, and it is generally recommended to avoid unnecessary medications during pregnancy. Discuss alternative treatments for your symptoms.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
After surgery, use this medicine with caution as it can increase sedation and respiratory depression, especially if you are taking other pain medications. Consult your surgeon or anesthesiologist before use.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. The anticholinergic effects can cause dry mouth, which may increase the risk of dental caries and oral discomfort. Your dentist may recommend saliva substitutes or other measures.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
This medicine may cause drowsiness and dizziness, which can affect your coordination and balance. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that require mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. If you exercise, do so with caution and stay hydrated.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine can cause drowsiness, which may affect your ability to drive, operate machinery, or perform tasks requiring mental alertness. It is best to avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. If your job requires alertness, discuss with your doctor about timing doses or alternative treatments.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve within 7 days, if they worsen, or if you experience any serious side effects. Do not stop abruptly if you have been taking it for a long time without consulting your doctor, as withdrawal symptoms are possible with prolonged antihistamine use.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended. Prolonged use of chlorpheniramine can lead to tolerance, dependence, and increased risk of side effects such as cognitive impairment, especially in the elderly. Ammonium chloride can cause metabolic acidosis and electrolyte imbalances with prolonged use. If you need this medicine for more than 7 days, consult your doctor for evaluation of the underlying cause.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Helps clear nasal passages and reduce postnasal drip without medication.
Evidence: Well-establishedCan help loosen mucus and soothe airways.
Evidence: Traditionally used, some evidenceReducing exposure to allergens can decrease the need for medication.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are acutely ill with a fever, it is generally advisable to postpone vaccination until you recover. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container with cap tightly closed
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
❌ 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, carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Bring a copy of your prescription in case you need to show it at customs. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If traveling across time zones, continue your regular dosing schedule as closely as possible, but do not double dose. If you are flying, keep the medicine in your carry-on luggage to avoid temperature extremes in checked baggage.
💰 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 to 60 minutes after taking a dose. You may notice relief from runny nose and sneezing first, while cough relief may take a bit longer as mucus thins.
A: You should avoid taking other medicines that contain antihistamines or cough suppressants without consulting your doctor, as this can increase the risk of side effects. Always inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking.
A: This medicine is not recommended for children under 2 years of age. For children 2 to 12 years, consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing.
A: Consult your doctor before taking this medicine during pregnancy. The safety of this combination in pregnancy is not well established, and ammonium chloride is generally not recommended.
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 dose.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for avicof syrup
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
zecof syrupWinmac Laboratories Ltd ₹30.80 13.6% CHEAPER
-
cofrid syrupAbyss Pharma Pvt Ltd ₹32.81 7.9% CHEAPER
-
tricos syrupAtlantic Pharma Ltd ₹42.19 18.4% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure the common cold.
Fact: This medicine only relieves symptoms; it does not cure the underlying viral infection. - Myth: It is safe to take this medicine with alcohol.
Fact: Alcohol increases drowsiness and other side effects; it should be avoided. - Myth: This medicine is safe for children under 2 years.
Fact: It is not recommended for children under 2 years due to risk of serious side effects. - Myth: You can take this medicine indefinitely for chronic cough.
Fact: It should not be used for more than 7 days without medical advice; chronic cough needs evaluation.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Ammonium Chloride syrup (various manufacturers)
Brand Alternatives
- Avicof Syrup (this medicine)