Avkof Syrup: Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, 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
- Slow, shallow, or difficult breathing
- Severe drowsiness or difficulty waking up
- Confusion, hallucinations, or unusual behavior
- Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Rash, itching, or severe skin reactions
- Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
- Seizures or convulsions
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is avkof syrup used for?
This medicine is a combination of codeine (an opioid antitussive) and triprolidine (an antihistamine) used for short-term relief of dry cough and allergic symptoms in adults and children above 12 years. It works by suppressing the cough reflex and reducing allergic secretions. It should not be used in children under 12, during breastfeeding, or in patients with respiratory conditions.
- Generic Name: Codeine + Triprolidine
- Manufacturer: Afive Pharma
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 avkof syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा कोडीन और ट्राइप्रोलिडीन का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग सूखी खांसी और एलर्जी के लक्षणों जैसे नाक बहना, छींक आना और आंखों में पानी आना के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह 12 वर्ष से अधिक उम्र के बच्चों और वयस्कों में उपयोग की जाती है। यह खांसी की प्रतिक्रिया को दबाती है और एलर्जी के कारण होने वाले स्राव को कम करती है। इस दवा का उपयोग केवल डॉक्टर की सलाह पर ही करें और निर्धारित अवधि से अधिक न लें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, मुंह सूखना, जी मिचलाना, उल्टी, कब्ज और धुंधली दृष्टि शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में सांस लेने में कठिनाई, गंभीर नींद, भ्रम, मतिभ्रम और एलर्जी प्रतिक्रियाएं शामिल हो सकती हैं। यदि आपको सांस लेने में परेशानी, गंभीर चक्कर या एलर्जी के लक्षण महसूस हों तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। खुराक बढ़ाएं नहीं और न ही निर्धारित समय से अधिक बार लें। इस दवा के साथ शराब और अन्य नींद लाने वाली दवाओं का सेवन न करें। गाड़ी चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें जब तक कि आपको पता न चल जाए कि यह दवा आप पर कैसा असर करती है। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें। 7 दिनों से अधिक समय तक बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के उपयोग न करें।
💊 avkof syrup Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Dry cough associated with allergic rhinitis","description":"This medicine suppresses the cough reflex and reduces nasal secretions, providing relief from dry, irritating cough and associated allergy symptoms.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Cough due to upper respiratory tract infection","description":"Used for short-term symptomatic relief of dry cough in adults and children above 12 years.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Allergic cough","description":"Triprolidine helps control allergic components while codeine reduces cough frequency.","evidence":"Established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Pain relief","description":"Codeine component may provide mild to moderate pain relief, but this combination is not primarily indicated for pain.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Dry cough associated with allergic rhinitis
Also treats: Upper respiratory tract infection, Allergic cough
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Codeine + Triprolidine |
| Brand Name | Avkof Syrup |
| Manufacturer | Afive Pharma |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | RESPIRATORY |
| Action Class | Antitussive + Antihistamine |
| 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. |
| 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
Codeine is a prodrug that is metabolized by CYP2D6 to morphine, which then binds to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system. This binding inhibits the cough reflex in the medulla oblongata and also produces analgesia. Triprolidine is a first-generation antihistamine that competitively blocks histamine H1 receptors, reducing allergic symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. It also has anticholinergic effects that help dry respiratory secretions.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take avkof syrup
Strength: Each 5 mL of syrup contains codeine phosphate 10 mg and triprolidine hydrochloride 1.25 mg.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose is 5 mL to 10 mL (one to two teaspoons) every 4 to 6 hours as needed for cough, not to exceed 4 doses in 24 hours. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 40 mL. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not use for more than 7 days without medical advice. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. This medicine is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age due to the risk of serious respiratory depression. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate cough management in children. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients (above 65 years) are more sensitive to the effects of codeine and triprolidine. Start with a lower dose and monitor closely for drowsiness, confusion, and respiratory depression. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Renal Impairment | Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose reduction may be necessary. Consult a clinician for individualized dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose reduction may be necessary. Consult a clinician for individualized dosing. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | Maximum daily dose is 40 mL (containing 40 mg codeine and 5 mg triprolidine) in adults. Do not exceed this limit. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of avkof 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 | |
| Alcohol | Major | |
| Benzodiazepines | Major | |
| Fluoxetine | Moderate | |
| Rifampicin | Moderate | |
| Anticholinergics | Moderate | |
| Naloxone | Moderate | |
| Beta-blockers | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor | |
| Caffeine | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- MAO inhibitors
- CNS depressants (alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, antipsychotics)
- CYP2D6 inhibitors (fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine)
- CYP3A4 inducers (rifampicin, carbamazepine, phenytoin)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Anticholinergic drugs (tricyclic antidepressants, antipsychotics)
- Opioid antagonists (naloxone, naltrexone)
- Beta-blockers
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be strictly avoided while taking this medicine. The combination can cause severe drowsiness, respiratory depression, and impaired motor skills, increasing the risk of accidents and overdose.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Children under 12 years of age","Known hypersensitivity to codeine, triprolidine, or any component","Respiratory depression or conditions with reduced respiratory reserve (e.g., severe asthma, COPD)","Acute asthma attack","Paralytic ileus or bowel obstruction","Breastfeeding","Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors or within 14 days of stopping them","Severe hepatic or renal impairment"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery.","Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine.","Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased sensitivity to side effects.","Prolonged use can lead to physical and psychological dependence.","Do not use for chronic cough without medical evaluation.","May cause constipation; increase fluid and fiber intake.","Use with caution in patients with head injury, increased intracranial pressure, or seizure disorders.","Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Not recommended during breastfeeding. Codeine can pass into breast milk and cause serious adverse effects in the infant, including excessive drowsiness, difficulty breathing, and feeding problems. Triprolidine may also cause drowsiness in the infant.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose can cause severe respiratory depression, extreme drowsiness, coma, and death. Seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment includes supportive care, airway management, and administration of naloxone (an opioid antagonist) for codeine toxicity. Triprolidine overdose may cause anticholinergic symptoms such as dry mouth, flushing, tachycardia, and hallucinations; management is symptomatic and supportive.
⏰ 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
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase the dose or take it more frequently than directed. Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants such as sedatives, tranquilizers, and sleeping pills while taking this medicine, as they can increase drowsiness and respiratory depression. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use for a dry cough that lasts more than 7 days or is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache. Inform your doctor if you have a history of drug abuse, liver or kidney disease, thyroid problems, or difficulty urinating. Do not stop suddenly after prolonged use without medical advice.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are more sensitive to the sedative and respiratory depressant effects of codeine and triprolidine. Use with caution, start with a lower dose, and monitor closely for confusion, falls, and respiratory depression.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy or are pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Codeine and triprolidine may harm the fetus. Prolonged use near term can cause neonatal withdrawal syndrome.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
After surgery, this medicine should be used with caution as it can add to the effects of anesthesia and other pain medications, increasing the risk of respiratory depression. Consult your surgeon before use.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure, as it can interact with anesthetics and sedatives used during dental work, increasing drowsiness and respiratory depression.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise or activities requiring alertness while taking this medicine, as it can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Light activities are fine if you feel well, but listen to your body and rest if you feel tired.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine can cause significant drowsiness and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is advisable to avoid work that requires mental alertness until you know how the medicine affects you. Inform your employer if your job involves operating heavy machinery.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop taking this medicine if your cough persists beyond 7 days, if you develop a fever, rash, or persistent headache, or if you experience any serious side effects. Do not stop abruptly after prolonged use without consulting your doctor, as withdrawal symptoms may occur.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine can lead to physical and psychological dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation. It may also cause chronic constipation, persistent drowsiness, and cognitive impairment. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function is advised for prolonged use. It should not be used for chronic cough without a thorough medical evaluation.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Non-opioid antitussive that suppresses cough without dependence risk.
Evidence: Well-establishedHelps clear nasal passages and reduce postnasal drip.
Evidence: EstablishedNatural remedies that soothe the throat and reduce cough.
Evidence: Traditional💉 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 cough, it is best to postpone vaccination until you recover, as advised by your doctor.
📦 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 along with a copy of your prescription. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing intervals as advised by your doctor. Check local customs regulations regarding controlled substances, as codeine may be restricted in some countries. Do not leave the medicine in a hot car or checked luggage.
💰 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.
A: It should only be used for short-term relief, typically not more than 7 days, unless directed by your doctor.
A: No, it is contraindicated in children under 12 years due to the risk of serious breathing problems.
A: No, alcohol should be strictly avoided as it can cause severe drowsiness and respiratory depression.
A: Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, and constipation.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for avkof syrup
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
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r codex syrupR.B. Remedies Pvt Ltd ₹62.81 48.5% CHEAPER
-
wallrex t syrupWallace Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd ₹84.38 30.8% CHEAPER
-
cedo t syrupSilicon Pharma ₹112.50 7.7% CHEAPER
-
codifem syrupFemgrace Formulations ₹112.50 7.7% CHEAPER
-
codisum syrupAnisum Lifesciences ₹112.50 7.7% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can be used for any type of cough.
Fact: It is only for dry cough and should not be used for productive cough with phlegm. - Myth: It is safe to take this medicine for a long time.
Fact: Prolonged use can lead to dependence and other serious side effects. - Myth: This medicine is safe for children.
Fact: It is contraindicated in children under 12 years due to risk of severe respiratory depression.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Codeine + Triprolidine syrup (generic)