Alkof LS Syrup: Comprehensive 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 swelling of face, lips, or throat
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Hallucinations or confusion
- Seizures
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- Difficulty urinating
- High fever with rash
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is cetdex syrup used for?
This medicine is a combination of cetirizine (an antihistamine) and dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant) used to treat dry cough and allergic symptoms. It works by blocking histamine and suppressing the cough reflex. It is available as a syrup and is taken orally every 6-8 hours as needed. Do not exceed the recommended dose and avoid alcohol.
- Generic Name: Cetirizine + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide
- Manufacturer: Digmedi Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 cetdex syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा एलर्जी के कारण होने वाली सूखी खांसी, छींक, नाक बहना और गले में खुजली के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। इसमें सेटिरिज़िन और डेक्सट्रोमेथोर्फन दो सक्रिय तत्व होते हैं। सेटिरिज़िन एलर्जी को कम करता है और डेक्सट्रोमेथोर्फन खांसी को दबाता है। यह सिरप के रूप में उपलब्ध है और इसे मुँह से लिया जाता है।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, मुँह सूखना, थकान और जी मिचलाना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में एलर्जी की प्रतिक्रिया, सीरोटोनिन सिंड्रोम, भ्रम, मतिभ्रम और पेशाब रुकना शामिल हो सकते हैं। यदि आपको कोई गंभीर लक्षण दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। खुराक से अधिक न लें। दवा लेने के बाद गाड़ी चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें क्योंकि इससे नींद आ सकती है। शराब का सेवन न करें। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं तो डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।
💊 cetdex syrup Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis with cough","description":"Relieves sneezing, runny nose, and dry cough associated with allergic rhinitis.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Common cold with dry cough","description":"Provides symptomatic relief from dry, irritating cough due to common cold.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Allergic cough","description":"Suppresses cough reflex and reduces allergic symptoms in patients with allergic cough.","evidence":"Well-established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Pruritus due to urticaria","description":"Cetirizine component may relieve itching in urticaria, but dextromethorphan is not indicated for this.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Allergic cough
Also treats: Allergic rhinitis, Common cold
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Cetirizine + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide |
| Brand Name | Alkof Syrup |
| Manufacturer | Digmedi Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | RESPIRATORY |
| Action Class | Antihistamine + Antitussive |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. 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 distinct mechanisms. Cetirizine is a selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist that inhibits the binding of histamine to H1 receptors on effector cells, thereby reducing allergic symptoms such as sneezing, rhinorrhea, and itching. Dextromethorphan hydrobromide is a centrally acting cough suppressant that acts on the cough center in the medulla oblongata, increasing the cough threshold. It is a non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist and also interacts with sigma-1 receptors, contributing to its antitussive effect. Together, they provide relief from allergic cough by addressing both the allergic component and the cough reflex.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take cetdex syrup
Strength: Each 5 mL of syrup contains Cetirizine 5 mg and Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is 5 mL to 10 mL (equivalent to 5 mg cetirizine and 10 mg dextromethorphan per 5 mL) taken orally every 6 to 8 hours as needed for cough and allergic symptoms, not to exceed 30 mL in 24 hours. However, dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not self-medicate. Follow your doctor's prescription exactly. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, dizziness, and anticholinergic effects. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal function. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosing. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with renal impairment, dose reduction may be required for cetirizine. Dextromethorphan does not require adjustment in renal impairment, but caution is advised. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In patients with hepatic impairment, dextromethorphan metabolism may be reduced, increasing the risk of side effects. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose for adults is 30 mL of this syrup (providing 30 mg cetirizine and 60 mg dextromethorphan) in divided doses. Do not exceed this dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of cetdex 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 | |
| CNS depressants | Moderate | |
| Anticholinergics | Moderate | |
| Theophylline | Minor | |
| Ritonavir | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- MAO inhibitors (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine)
- SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline)
- CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., quinidine, fluoxetine, paroxetine)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Alcohol
- CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids)
- Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., benztropine, oxybutynin)
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness, dizziness, and impair motor skills. The combination may also increase the risk of central nervous system depression.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity to cetirizine, dextromethorphan, or any component of the formulation","Use within 14 days of MAO inhibitor therapy","Severe liver disease","Chronic cough with excessive mucus production","Children under 2 years of age"]
⚠️ 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 patients with asthma, COPD, or respiratory depression.","Use with caution in patients with glaucoma, urinary retention, or prostate enlargement.","Do not use for chronic cough or cough with excessive phlegm without medical advice.","Consult doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or worsen.","Do not exceed recommended dose.","Keep out of reach of children."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Cetirizine and dextromethorphan may pass into breast milk. Limited data are available. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding. Alternative options may be considered.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose may cause severe drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, tachycardia, hypertension, and in severe cases, respiratory depression, seizures, and coma. Seek emergency medical attention immediately. 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
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 may cause drowsiness. Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase drowsiness and impair motor skills. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Do not use this medicine for a chronic cough or cough with excessive phlegm without medical advice. Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not use if the seal is broken or the syrup is discolored. If symptoms persist for more than 7 days or worsen, consult your 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 anticholinergic effects. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal function. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. It should be used only if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Consult your doctor before taking this medicine after surgery, as it may interact with other medications or affect recovery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it may cause dry mouth and increase the risk of dental issues. It may also interact with medications used during dental procedures.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise or activities requiring alertness until you know how this medicine affects you, as it may cause drowsiness and dizziness.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause drowsiness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid such activities until you know how it affects you. It may also reduce your productivity if you feel sleepy. Plan your tasks accordingly.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor if your cough persists for more than 7 days, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or difficulty breathing. 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 dextromethorphan may lead to tolerance and dependence. Cetirizine may cause ongoing drowsiness. Regular monitoring of renal and hepatic function may be needed if used for extended periods. Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Helps soothe dry cough and congestion.
Evidence: LimitedNatural remedy for soothing throat and cough.
Evidence: LimitedHelps with nasal congestion and allergic rhinitis.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
No specific interactions with vaccines are known. However, if you are unwell with a cough, consult your doctor before getting vaccinated.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate
✅ 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
When traveling with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging with the prescription label. Bring a copy of your prescription in case of customs checks. Store it at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or cold. If crossing time zones, continue taking it as needed for symptoms, but do not exceed the maximum daily dose. Avoid taking it before driving or operating machinery during travel.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts relieving allergic symptoms within 1 hour and cough suppression within 15-30 minutes.
A: Consult your doctor before combining with other cold medicines, as they may contain overlapping ingredients or interact.
A: This medicine is not recommended for children under 2 years. For older children, consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing.
A: Consult your doctor before taking this medicine during pregnancy. It should be used only if clearly needed.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for cetdex syrup
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
xpen d syrupPenta Biotech Pvt Ltd ₹32.81 6.3% CHEAPER
-
alernyl 5 mg/10 mg syrupManeesh Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹46.20 32% COSTLIER
-
Tucin D Junior SyrupI.I.F.A Health Care ₹48.75 39.3% COSTLIER
-
zonatus dmr syrupAvron Pharma Pvt Ltd ₹51.56 47.3% COSTLIER
-
zescoryl dx syrupZovaitalia Healthcare Pvt Ltd ₹54.83 56.7% 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, allergic cough. It is not effective for productive cough with phlegm. - Myth: It is safe to take this medicine with alcohol.
Fact: Alcohol increases drowsiness and CNS depression. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. - Myth: This medicine is safe for children under 2 years.
Fact: This medicine is not recommended for children under 2 years due to risk of serious side effects.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Cetirizine + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide syrup