Brocif Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide for Patients and Caregivers
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing
- Severe watery diarrhoea, blood or mucus in stool, or persistent abdominal cramps
- Widespread skin rash with blisters, peeling skin, or mouth sores
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, or severe tiredness
- Decreased urine output, swelling of the legs, or blood in urine
- Unusual bruising or bleeding, or persistent fever with weakness
- Seizures or confusion, especially in patients with kidney disease
- Chest pain, palpitations, or fainting
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is brocif tablet used for?
This medicine is an oral combination of cefalexin 250 mg, an antibiotic, and bromhexine 4 mg, a mucolytic. It is used for bacterial respiratory tract infections with thick mucus. It should be taken exactly as prescribed, usually two to three times a day, and the full course must be completed.
- Generic Name: Cefalexin + Bromhexine
- Manufacturer: Zephyr Medicare Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 brocif tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा सेफालेक्सिन 250 मिलीग्राम और ब्रोमहेक्सिन 4 मिलीग्राम का संयोजन है। यह मुख्य रूप से श्वसन तंत्र के बैक्टीरियल संक्रमण में दी जाती है, जहाँ गाढ़ा बलगम जमा हो जाता है और खाँसी से निकलने में कठिनाई होती है। सेफालेक्सिन बैक्टीरिया को मारता है और ब्रोमहेक्सिन बलगम को पतला करता है, जिससे खाँसी आसान हो जाती है। यह दवा सर्दी-जुकाम जैसे वायरल संक्रमण में नहीं दी जाती। इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के अनुसार पूरा कोर्स करना बहुत जरूरी है, वरना संक्रमण दोबारा हो सकता है।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में जी मिचलाना, उल्टी, पेट दर्द, दस्त, भूख कम लगना और हल्का चक्कर आना शामिल हैं। कुछ लोगों को त्वचा पर हल्का दाना या खुजली भी हो सकती है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव कम होते हैं, लेकिन अगर चेहरे, होंठ या गले में सूजन आए, साँस लेने में तकलीफ हो, तेज दस्त या मल में खून आए, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें। बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के दवा बंद न करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें, भोजन के साथ लेने से पेट की तकलीफ कम हो सकती है। पूरा कोर्स पूरा करें, भले ही आराम महसूस होने लगे। यह दवा दूसरों के साथ साझा न करें। अगर आपको किडनी या लिवर की बीमारी है, पेनिसिलिन या सेफालोस्पोरिन से एलर्जी है, या आप गर्भवती हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं, तो डॉक्टर को पहले बताएं। दवा लेते समय शराब न पिएं। अगर दवा लेने के बाद तेज दस्त, चक्कर, या एलर्जी के लक्षण दिखें, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
💊 brocif tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Acute bacterial bronchitis","description":"Used when a bacterial chest infection produces thick mucus and a productive cough, helping to clear the airways while treating the infection.","evidence":"Commonly prescribed in clinical practice"},{"condition":"Bacterial pneumonia (mild, community-acquired)","description":"May be used in selected mild cases where cefalexin-susceptible bacteria are suspected and mucus is thick, but severe pneumonia needs hospital-based therapy.","evidence":"Limited to selected cases"},{"condition":"Bacterial upper respiratory tract infection with thick mucus","description":"Prescribed when a bacterial throat or sinus infection is accompanied by thick secretions that are hard to clear.","evidence":"Commonly prescribed in clinical practice"},{"condition":"Acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis","description":"Used when chronic bronchitis flares with increased sputum thickness and signs of bacterial infection.","evidence":"Commonly prescribed in clinical practice"},{"condition":"Tracheobronchitis with viscid secretions","description":"Helps thin sticky airway secretions while cefalexin targets susceptible bacteria in the respiratory tract.","evidence":"Limited to selected cases"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Mucolytic support in non-infective chronic airway disease","description":"Bromhexine alone is sometimes used to thin mucus in chronic airway conditions, but the antibiotic component is not appropriate without a bacterial infection.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Bacterial respiratory tract infections with thick mucus
Also treats: Acute bronchitis, Chronic bronchitis exacerbation, Bacterial pneumonia (mild, selected cases), Bacterial sinusitis with thick secretions, Tracheobronchitis
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Cefalexin + Bromhexine |
| Brand Name | Brocif Tablet |
| Manufacturer | Zephyr Medicare Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI INFECTIVES |
| Action Class | Cephalosporin antibiotic + Mucolytic |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store this medicine at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C in a dry place. Keep it in the original container with the lid tightly closed. Protect it from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Do not store it in the bathroom or near the kitchen stove. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets. |
| Shelf Life | The shelf life of this medicine is typically 24 months from the date of manufacture when stored as directed. Always check the expiry date printed on the pack before use. Do not use the medicine after the expiry date, and dispose of expired tablets safely according to local guidelines. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information for this specific fixed-dose combination. Antibiotic use should follow local antimicrobial stewardship guidelines and national treatment guidelines. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information for this specific fixed-dose combination. In India, antibiotic prescribing should follow the Indian Council of Medical Research antimicrobial resistance surveillance and treatment guidance, and clinicians should avoid unnecessary antibiotic use. |
👨⚕️ 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 works through two separate mechanisms. Cefalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that binds to penicillin-binding proteins in the bacterial cell wall and blocks the cross-linking of peptidoglycan, which weakens the wall and causes the bacteria to burst and die. Bromhexine is a mucolytic that reduces the viscosity of bronchial secretions by breaking down the structure of mucus and stimulating the production of thinner serous fluid, making it easier to cough out. Together, the antibiotic targets susceptible bacteria while the mucolytic helps clear the airways so the patient can breathe and cough more effectively.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take brocif tablet
Strength: Each tablet contains cefalexin 250 mg and bromhexine 4 mg in an immediate-release oral dosage form.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is one tablet taken two to three times a day, depending on the severity of the infection and the doctor's assessment. The exact dose and duration must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, kidney function, liver function, and response to treatment. Do not change the dose or stop the medicine early without medical advice. Complete the full course as prescribed. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing of this fixed-dose combination is not established from available information. Cefalexin and bromhexine doses in children depend on weight, age, and the specific infection, and this tablet strength may not be suitable for all children. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing and formulation. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may need a lower dose or longer dosing interval, especially if kidney function is reduced. Kidney function should be checked before and during treatment in older adults. Elderly patients are also more likely to take other medicines, so the doctor should review all drugs for interactions. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with reduced kidney function, the dose of cefalexin may need to be reduced or the dosing interval lengthened. This is especially important when creatinine clearance is low. Bromhexine dose adjustment in kidney disease is not well established. A qualified clinician should determine the appropriate dose based on kidney function tests. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Caution is advised in patients with liver disease because bromhexine is metabolised in the liver. The dose may need to be adjusted or the medicine avoided in severe liver impairment. Liver function should be monitored if there is any concern. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose of this medicine depends on the prescribed strength and frequency and must be determined by a qualified clinician. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. Taking more than the recommended dose increases the risk of side effects, especially stomach upset, kidney irritation, and allergic reactions. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of brocif tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Warfarin | Major | |
| Gentamicin | Major | |
| Furosemide | Moderate | |
| Methotrexate | Major | |
| Probenecid | Moderate | |
| Oral contraceptives | Moderate | |
| Theophylline | Moderate | |
| Codeine cough syrups | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor | |
| Iron supplements | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Warfarin and other oral anticoagulants
- Aminoglycoside antibiotics such as gentamicin
- Loop diuretics such as furosemide
- Methotrexate
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Probenecid
- Oral contraceptives
- Cough suppressants containing codeine or dextromethorphan
- Theophylline
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine. It can increase the risk of stomach irritation, nausea, and dizziness, and it may worsen dehydration if diarrhoea occurs. Alcohol can also place extra stress on the liver while the body is handling bromhexine metabolism. If you drink regularly, discuss this with your doctor before starting the medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known allergy or hypersensitivity to cefalexin, other cephalosporins, or any component of this medicine","Previous severe allergic reaction to penicillin antibiotics, because of the risk of cross-reactivity","Use in patients with a history of anaphylaxis to beta-lactam antibiotics","Not recommended for viral respiratory infections such as the common cold or influenza","Should not be used without medical supervision in severe kidney impairment","Should not be used in patients with a known bromhexine allergy"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Tell your doctor about any allergy to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics before taking this medicine.","Use with caution in patients with kidney disease, and dose adjustment may be needed.","Use with caution in patients with liver disease because bromhexine is metabolised in the liver.","Stop the medicine and seek medical help immediately if a severe allergic reaction occurs.","Prolonged use can lead to overgrowth of non-susceptible bacteria or fungi, including oral thrush.","Antibiotic-associated diarrhoea can occur; do not treat it with anti-diarrhoeal medicines without asking your doctor.","This medicine may cause dizziness in some patients; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Do not use this medicine to treat viral infections, as it will not help and may cause unnecessary side effects.","Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.","Complete the full prescribed course even if you feel better early."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Cefalexin passes into breast milk in small amounts and is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but it may occasionally cause loose motions or thrush in the infant. Bromhexine safety during breastfeeding is not well established. Breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before using this medicine and watch the baby for diarrhoea, rash, or irritability.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhoea, and in severe cases, kidney irritation or seizures, especially in patients with kidney disease. There is no specific antidote for this combination. Treatment is supportive and includes stopping the medicine, maintaining hydration, and monitoring kidney function and vital signs. In case of a large overdose, contact a poison control centre or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Do not try to induce vomiting unless a healthcare professional advises it.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember, provided there is enough time before your next scheduled dose. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose. If you miss several doses, contact your doctor for advice, because incomplete antibiotic courses can allow the infection to return.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, with or without food, but taking it with a meal may reduce stomach upset. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew it unless your doctor advises otherwise. Complete the full course even if you start feeling better after two or three days, because stopping early can allow the infection to return and can encourage antibiotic resistance. Do not share this medicine with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms. Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems, liver problems, asthma, or a history of allergy to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine because it can worsen stomach irritation and dizziness. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor before taking this medicine. Keep all follow-up appointments so your doctor can check whether the infection is clearing.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are more likely to have reduced kidney function, which can raise cefalexin levels and increase the risk of side effects. Kidney function should be checked before and during treatment, and the dose may need adjustment. Elderly patients may also take multiple medicines, so interactions should be reviewed carefully. Watch for dizziness, confusion, or falls while on this medicine.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are trying to conceive or are pregnant, tell your doctor before taking this medicine. Cefalexin is generally considered acceptable in pregnancy when clearly needed, but bromhexine safety in pregnancy is not well established. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks. Do not self-medicate with antibiotics while planning pregnancy.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
If you are recovering from surgery, tell your surgeon and anaesthetist about this medicine. Antibiotics can interact with other medicines used during and after surgery, and kidney function may need monitoring. Do not start or stop this medicine around surgery without medical advice.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. Antibiotics can affect the balance of bacteria in the mouth and may interact with other medicines used during dental work. Your dentist may coordinate with your doctor if you need antibiotics for a dental infection.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Mild activity such as walking is usually fine if you feel up to it, but avoid strenuous exercise while you have an active infection, fever, or breathlessness. Rest is important for recovery. If you experience chest pain, dizziness, or worsening breathlessness during activity, stop and seek medical advice.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause dizziness or stomach upset in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Most people can continue desk work, but rest is advised if you have fever or significant breathlessness. Follow your doctor's advice about returning to work, especially if you have a contagious infection.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop this medicine only when your doctor tells you to stop, or if you complete the prescribed course. Seek immediate medical advice if you develop a severe allergic reaction, severe diarrhoea, or any serious side effect. Do not stop the antibiotic early just because you feel better, as this can cause the infection to return.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended unless specifically advised by a doctor. Prolonged antibiotic use can lead to antibiotic resistance, overgrowth of non-susceptible bacteria or fungi, and rare blood or liver effects. If long-term therapy is needed, your doctor may monitor kidney function, liver function, and blood counts. Do not continue this medicine beyond the prescribed duration without medical review.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Helps loosen thick mucus and soothe the airways, and can complement medical treatment.
Evidence: Well-established for symptom reliefTechniques to help clear airway secretions may be useful in selected patients with thick mucus.
Evidence: Limited to selected patientsCan help relieve nasal congestion and post-nasal drip in upper respiratory infections.
Evidence: Well-established for symptom relief💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There is no known interaction between this medicine and routine vaccines. However, if you are unwell with fever, your doctor may advise delaying vaccination until you recover. Annual influenza and pneumococcal vaccination may be recommended for people with chronic respiratory disease to prevent future infections.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in the original container with the lid tightly closed
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
❌ DON'T
Do not store in the bathroom cabinet
✅ DO
Keep out of the reach of children and pets
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
Carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label visible. Keep a copy of your prescription with you, especially for international travel, because antibiotics may be checked at customs. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight during travel, and do not leave it in a hot car. If you are crossing time zones, continue your doses at the same interval as prescribed; ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice on adjusting the schedule. Carry enough tablets for the entire trip plus a few extra days in case of delays. Declare the medicine if required by local customs rules.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: You may begin to notice easier coughing within one to two days, but fever and infection symptoms usually improve over 24 to 72 hours. Complete the full course as prescribed.
A: Yes, you can take it with or without food. Taking it with a meal may reduce stomach upset.
A: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember if there is enough time before the next dose. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip it and continue your regular schedule. Do not double dose.
A: It is best to avoid alcohol because it can worsen stomach irritation, dizziness, and dehydration.
A: Cefalexin is generally considered acceptable in pregnancy when needed, but bromhexine safety is not well established. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
A: No. Stopping early can allow the infection to return and can promote antibiotic resistance. Complete the full prescribed course.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for brocif tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
mucokef 250 mg/4 mg capsuleEli Lilly and Company India Pvt Ltd ₹27.65 54.6% CHEAPER
-
Resporidex 250 mg/4 mg CapsuleSun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd ₹50.45 17.2% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure any cough or cold.
Fact: This medicine contains an antibiotic and should not be used for viral coughs or colds. It only helps when a susceptible bacterial infection is present. - Myth: You can stop the antibiotic once you feel better.
Fact: Stopping early can allow the infection to return and can promote antibiotic resistance. Complete the full prescribed course. - Myth: This medicine is safe to share with family members who have similar symptoms.
Fact: Antibiotics should never be shared. The dose and choice depend on the individual patient and the specific infection. - Myth: Taking antibiotics with alcohol is always safe.
Fact: Alcohol can worsen stomach irritation, dizziness, and dehydration while on this medicine, so it is best avoided. - Myth: More tablets will make you recover faster.
Fact: Taking more than the prescribed dose increases the risk of side effects and does not speed up recovery.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Cefalexin 250 mg + Bromhexine 4 mg tablet
Brand Alternatives
- Brocif Tablet