costus dx syrup - Chlorpheniramine Maleate (2mg) + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (10mg) medicine

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🏭 Human Biolife India Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 24, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for symptomatic relief of cough and cold.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 24, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
  • Hallucinations or confusion
  • Seizures
  • Blood in vomit or stool

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is costus dx syrup used for?

This medicine is a sugar-free syrup containing chlorpheniramine maleate and dextromethorphan hydrobromide, used to treat dry cough and allergic symptoms. It works by blocking histamine and suppressing the cough reflex.

  • Generic Name: Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide
  • Manufacturer: Human Biolife India Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 costus dx syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा सूखी खांसी और एलर्जी के लक्षणों जैसे नाक बहना, छींक आना और आंखों में पानी आना के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। यह शुगर-फ्री सिरप है, इसलिए मधुमेह रोगी भी इसका उपयोग कर सकते हैं, लेकिन डॉक्टर की सलाह से।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, मुंह सूखना, जी मिचलाना और धुंधली दृष्टि शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी, मतिभ्रम, अनियमित दिल की धड़कन या पेशाब में कठिनाई हो सकती है।

सुरक्षा सलाह: दवा की खुराक से अधिक न लें। जब तक आपको पता न चले कि यह दवा आपको कैसे प्रभावित करती है, वाहन न चलाएं। शराब न पिएं। ग्लूकोमा, प्रोस्टेट बढ़ने, थायरॉइड या लिवर/किडनी रोग हो तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 costus dx syrup Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Dry cough","description":"Suppresses non-productive cough by acting on the cough center in the brain.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Relieves runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes due to allergies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Common cold","description":"Provides symptomatic relief of cough and nasal symptoms associated with common cold.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: []

Primary treatment for: Dry cough and allergic rhinitis

Also treats: Common cold, Allergic cough

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide
Brand NameAlex Junior Syrup
ManufacturerHuman Biolife India Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action ClassAntihistamine + Antitussive
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Shelf Life24 months from date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine only for dry cough; it is not effective for productive cough with phlegm.
2
Avoid driving or operating machinery after taking this medicine as it may cause drowsiness.
3
Do not use this medicine for more than 7 days without consulting your doctor.
4
If you have diabetes, this sugar-free formulation is suitable, but monitor your blood sugar levels.
5
Do not combine with other cough and cold medicines without checking with your doctor.
6
Keep the measuring cup clean and use it only for this medicine.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Dry cough
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Runny nose
This medicine helps relieve this symptom.
Likely Use
❌
Productive cough with phlegm
This medicine is not for productive cough.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionChlorpheniramine is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Dextromethorphan is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
DistributionChlorpheniramine distributes widely into body tissues. Dextromethorphan crosses the blood-brain barrier.
Protein BindingChlorpheniramine is about 72% bound to plasma proteins. Dextromethorphan is about 60-70% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismChlorpheniramine is metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes. Dextromethorphan is metabolized in the liver by CYP2D6.
Half-LifeChlorpheniramine: 12-43 hours. Dextromethorphan: 2-4 hours.
ExcretionChlorpheniramine and its metabolites are excreted mainly in urine. Dextromethorphan and its metabolites are excreted in urine.
BioavailabilityChlorpheniramine: 25-50%. Dextromethorphan: 10-20% due to first-pass metabolism.
Onset of ActionChlorpheniramine: 30-60 minutes. Dextromethorphan: 15-30 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimeChlorpheniramine: 2-6 hours. Dextromethorphan: 2-3 hours.
Duration of ActionChlorpheniramine: 4-6 hours. Dextromethorphan: 3-6 hours.

How It Works

This medicine combines an antihistamine and a cough suppressant. Chlorpheniramine maleate blocks histamine H1 receptors, reducing allergic symptoms. Dextromethorphan hydrobromide acts on the central nervous system to suppress the cough reflex by reducing sensitivity of cough receptors in the brain.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine H1 receptor blockade: Chlorpheniramine binds to H1 receptors, preventing histamine from causing allergic symptoms like sneezing and runny nose.
2
Cough reflex suppression: Dextromethorphan acts on the cough center in the medulla oblongata to raise the threshold for cough reflex.
3
Anticholinergic effect: Chlorpheniramine also has anticholinergic properties that help dry up secretions.

💡 How to Take costus dx syrup

Strength: Each 5 mL contains Chlorpheniramine Maleate 2 mg and Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg.

1Shake the bottle well before use.
2Use the measuring cup or spoon provided to measure the correct dose.
3Take orally, with or without food.
4Do not exceed the recommended dose.
5Wash the measuring cup after each use.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is 5-10 mL every 4-6 hours as needed, not to exceed 60 mL in 24 hours. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to side effects. Use with caution and lower doses may be appropriate. Consult a doctor.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be needed. Consult a doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in hepatic impairment. Dose adjustment may be needed. Consult a doctor.
Maximum Daily Dose60 mL in 24 hours for adults.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases drowsiness and dizziness.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of costus dx syrup

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (10-20%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery. Usually resolves with continued use.
Dry mouth (Common (5-10%))
Sip water or chew sugarless gum. Consult doctor if persistent.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Rise slowly from sitting or lying position. Avoid alcohol.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing.
Hallucinations (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately.
Irregular heartbeat (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency medical care if you feel palpitations or chest discomfort.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Blood dyscrasias
Report unusual bruising or bleeding to your doctor.
Seizures
Seek immediate medical attention.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAO inhibitors Major
CNS depressants Major
Alcohol Moderate
Anticholinergics Moderate
CYP2D6 inhibitors Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • MAO inhibitors
  • CNS depressants

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Alcohol
  • Anticholinergic drugs

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medicine as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness, and may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to chlorpheniramine, dextromethorphan, or any component","Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors","Children under 6 years of age","Chronic cough with excessive mucus","Asthma or COPD without medical advice"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery.","Do not use for chronic cough or cough with excessive phlegm.","Use with caution in patients with glaucoma, prostate enlargement, or urinary retention.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Do not exceed recommended dose.","Consult doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan may pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before use.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe drowsiness, hallucinations, seizures, or respiratory depression. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.

⏰ 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.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

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 as it can increase drowsiness. Inform your doctor if you have glaucoma, prostate enlargement, thyroid problems, or liver/kidney disease. Do not use for chronic cough or cough with excessive mucus unless advised by a doctor. Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Do not use after the expiry date.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. Use with caution and lower doses may be appropriate.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

Consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Consult your doctor before using 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 affect oral health.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
🥗
Use a humidifier to ease dry cough.
😴
Avoid exposure to allergens like dust and pollen.
💧
Get adequate rest to help your body recover.
🧘
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise while taking this medicine as it may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Light activities are fine if you feel up to it.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink warm fluids like herbal tea with honey.
Avoid cold and sugary drinks that may irritate the throat.
Include vitamin C rich foods to boost immunity.
Eat light, easily digestible meals.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause drowsiness, affecting your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid tasks requiring alertness until you know how it affects you.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine when your symptoms improve or as advised by your doctor. 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 may lead to tolerance, dependence, or increased side effects. Use only for short-term relief of symptoms. If symptoms persist beyond 7 days, consult a doctor.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Steam inhalation

Helps relieve cough and congestion.

Evidence: Well-established
Honey and warm water

Soothes the throat and reduces cough.

Evidence: Traditional

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No known interactions with vaccines. However, consult your doctor before vaccination if you are unwell.

📦 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

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription copy. Store at room temperature and protect from direct sunlight. If traveling across time zones, continue with your regular dosing schedule as advised by your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with seasonal allergies and dry cough
She was prescribed this medicine for her dry cough and runny nose. She took it as directed and noticed relief within 30 minutes. She experienced mild drowsiness, so she avoided driving. She stopped the medicine after 5 days when symptoms resolved.
💡 Lesson: This medicine provides quick relief for dry cough and allergy symptoms but may cause drowsiness; avoid driving.
👤 A 50-year-old man with diabetes and common cold
He was concerned about sugar in cough syrups. His doctor prescribed this sugar-free syrup. He took it for 3 days and his cough improved without affecting his blood sugar levels.
💡 Lesson: Sugar-free formulations are safe for diabetics, but always consult your doctor before use.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 30-60 minutes after taking a dose.

Q: Can I take this medicine at night?

A: Yes, but it may cause drowsiness, so it is often taken at bedtime if cough interferes with sleep.

Q: Is this medicine safe for children?

A: It is not recommended for children under 6 years. For older children, consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for costus dx syrup

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

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, non-productive cough. It is not effective for cough with phlegm.
  • Myth: It is safe to take this medicine for a long time.
    Fact: This medicine should be used only for short-term relief. Prolonged use may cause side effects.

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

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