Grilinctus CD Syrup: Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Very slow or shallow breathing
- Extreme sleepiness or difficulty waking up
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or chest tightness
- Fast, irregular, or very slow heartbeat
- Severe confusion or hallucinations
- Inability to pass urine
- Seizures
- Cough lasting more than 3 weeks or accompanied by blood
- Fever with chest pain or breathlessness
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is histolate syrup used for?
This medicine is a prescription cough syrup containing chlorpheniramine maleate and codeine. It is used for short-term relief of dry, irritating cough in adults. It should not be used in children, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with alcohol. It can cause drowsiness and dependence, so it should be used only as prescribed and for the shortest time possible.
- Generic Name: Chlorpheniramine Maleate (4mg) + Codeine (10mg)
- Manufacturer: Ornate Labs Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 histolate syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा सूखी, खुजली वाली और बलगम रहित खांसी के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। इसमें क्लोरफेनिरामाइन मेलिएट और कोडीन दो सक्रिय तत्व होते हैं। क्लोरफेनिरामाइन एलर्जी के लक्षणों जैसे नाक बहना और गले में खुजली को कम करता है, जबकि कोडीन दिमाग में खांसी के केंद्र पर असर डालकर खांसी को दबाता है। यह दवा केवल वयस्कों के लिए है और बच्चों को नहीं दी जानी चाहिए। इसका इस्तेमाल केवल कुछ दिनों तक ही करना चाहिए, क्योंकि कोडीन की लत लग सकती है। गर्भवती और स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाओं को यह दवा नहीं लेनी चाहिए। शराब के साथ इसका सेवन बिल्कुल न करें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, मुंह सूखना, धुंधला दिखना, जी मिचलाना, उल्टी, कब्ज और पेशाब करने में कठिनाई शामिल हैं। कुछ लोगों में सांस धीमी या उथली हो सकती है, गंभीर भ्रम हो सकता है, दिल की धड़कन तेज या अनियमित हो सकती है, या एलर्जी की प्रतिक्रिया हो सकती है। अगर सांस लेने में तकलीफ, बहुत ज्यादा नींद, या दिल की धड़कन बहुत धीमी हो जाए, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें और बताई गई अवधि से ज्यादा न लें। कोडीन की वजह से यह दवा नींद और सांस को प्रभावित कर सकती है, इसलिए गाड़ी चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। शराब के साथ इसका सेवन बिल्कुल न करें। बच्चों को यह दवा न दें। गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के दौरान डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना इसका इस्तेमाल न करें। अगर खांसी कुछ दिनों में ठीक न हो या बुखार, सीने में दर्द या सांस लेने में तकलीफ हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
💊 histolate syrup Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Dry, irritating, unproductive cough","description":"This medicine is used for short-term relief of a dry cough that does not produce mucus, especially when it interferes with sleep or daily activities.","evidence":"Established for short-term use"},{"condition":"Allergic cough associated with runny nose and sneezing","description":"The chlorpheniramine component helps reduce allergy symptoms that can trigger throat irritation and cough.","evidence":"Established for allergic symptoms"},{"condition":"Cough due to mild upper respiratory tract irritation","description":"It may be prescribed for a short period when a dry cough persists after a common cold and other causes have been ruled out.","evidence":"Limited to short-term symptomatic relief"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Cough in palliative care","description":"Sometimes used in palliative settings for distressing dry cough, but only under specialist supervision.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis with cough","description":"The antihistamine component may help allergic rhinitis symptoms, but codeine is not a standard treatment for rhinitis alone.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Dry, irritating, unproductive cough
Also treats: Allergic rhinitis with cough, Upper respiratory tract irritation
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Chlorpheniramine Maleate (4mg) + Codeine (10mg) |
| Brand Name | histolate syrup |
| Manufacturer | Ornate Labs Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | RESPIRATORY |
| Action Class | |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of the reach of children. |
| Shelf Life | Not established from the available information. Check the expiry date on the pack and do not use after that date. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. The World Health Organization does not recommend codeine-containing cough syrups for children and adolescents. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. The Indian Council of Medical Research has not issued a specific guideline for this combination product. |
👨⚕️ 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 different mechanisms. Chlorpheniramine maleate blocks histamine H1 receptors, which reduces allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and throat irritation that can trigger cough. Codeine acts directly on the cough center in the brain and also on opioid receptors in the lungs, raising the threshold for the cough reflex and making coughing less frequent and less intense. Codeine is a prodrug that is converted in the body to morphine, which is mainly responsible for its cough-suppressant and pain-relieving effects. The combination provides both antihistamine and central cough-suppressant action, but it also increases the risk of drowsiness and breathing depression.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take histolate syrup
Strength: Each 5 mL of syrup contains chlorpheniramine maleate 4 mg and codeine 10 mg.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is 5 mL to 10 mL taken by mouth every 4 to 6 hours as needed for cough, but the exact dose and frequency must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the severity of the cough, the person's age, weight, liver function, kidney function, and other medicines being taken. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. This medicine should be used for the shortest time possible, usually no more than a few days. Do not take more than the maximum daily dose recommended by your doctor. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. This medicine should not be used in children or adolescents under 18 years of age. Consult a pediatrician for safe alternatives. |
| Elderly Dosage | Older adults are more sensitive to the sedative and breathing-depressant effects of this medicine. The dose may need to be reduced, and the medicine should be used with caution. A doctor should carefully assess the risks and benefits before prescribing it to an elderly person. |
| Renal Impairment | In people with kidney disease, this medicine may accumulate and cause increased side effects. The dose may need to be reduced or the medicine avoided. A doctor should determine the appropriate dose based on kidney function. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In people with liver disease, this medicine may accumulate and cause increased side effects. The dose may need to be reduced or the medicine avoided. A doctor should determine the appropriate dose based on liver function. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose must be determined by a qualified clinician. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. In general, this medicine should be used for the shortest time possible and not more than a few days. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of histolate syrup
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol | Major | |
| Benzodiazepines | Major | |
| Other opioids | Major | |
| MAO inhibitors | Major | |
| CYP2D6 inhibitors | Major | |
| Antihistamines | Moderate | |
| Tricyclic antidepressants | Moderate | |
| Muscle relaxants | Moderate | |
| Anticholinergics | Moderate | |
| CYP3A4 inhibitors | Moderate |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Alcohol
- Other opioid medicines
- Benzodiazepines and other sedatives
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
- CYP2D6 inhibitors such as fluoxetine and paroxetine
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine and cetirizine
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Muscle relaxants
- Anticholinergic medicines such as oxybutynin
- CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole and clarithromycin
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol must be avoided completely while taking this medicine. Both codeine and chlorpheniramine cause drowsiness and slow breathing, and alcohol greatly increases these effects. Combining them can lead to severe sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and even death. If you have consumed alcohol, do not take this medicine until you have discussed it with your doctor.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Children and adolescents under 18 years of age","Known allergy to chlorpheniramine, codeine, or any other ingredient","Severe asthma or other chronic breathing problems","Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with carbon dioxide retention","Paralytic ileus or bowel obstruction","Severe liver disease","Recent head injury or raised intracranial pressure","Use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors within the last 14 days","Pregnancy and breastfeeding"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine can cause severe drowsiness and slow breathing. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you.","Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine.","Do not take this medicine for longer than prescribed because codeine can cause dependence.","Do not give this medicine to children or adolescents.","Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease, asthma, or difficulty passing urine.","Tell your doctor about all other medicines you take, especially sedatives, antidepressants, and antihistamines.","This medicine may affect your ability to think clearly. Avoid making important decisions until you know how it affects you.","If you develop a rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing, stop the medicine and seek emergency help."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
This medicine is not recommended during breastfeeding. Codeine passes into breast milk and can cause serious breathing problems, excessive sleepiness, and poor feeding in the baby. If you are breastfeeding, talk to your doctor about safer alternatives.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine can cause severe drowsiness, slow or shallow breathing, cold and clammy skin, slow heartbeat, and loss of consciousness. If you suspect an overdose, call emergency services immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen. Treatment in hospital may include supportive care, monitoring of breathing and heart function, and administration of an opioid antidote such as naloxone if appropriate. Never try to treat an overdose at home.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are unsure what to do, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor and for no longer than the recommended duration. Do not increase the dose or take it more often than directed, because codeine can slow your breathing and cause dependence. Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or doing anything that requires alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine, as it increases the risk of severe drowsiness and breathing problems. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you take, especially sedatives, sleeping pills, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and antihistamines. Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically advises it. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and never give it to a child unless a doctor prescribes it. Store it at room temperature, away from heat and direct light, and do not use it after the expiry date. If your cough lasts more than a few days or you develop fever, chest pain, or breathlessness, contact your doctor promptly.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Older adults are more sensitive to the sedative and breathing-depressant effects of this medicine. They are also more likely to have liver or kidney disease, which can increase the risk of side effects. The dose may need to be reduced, and the medicine should be used with caution and close monitoring.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine should be avoided if you are planning pregnancy, are pregnant, or think you might be pregnant. Codeine can cause breathing problems and withdrawal symptoms in the newborn. If you are planning pregnancy, talk to your doctor about safer alternatives for cough relief.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
This medicine should be used with caution after surgery, especially after procedures involving the abdomen or chest, because it can slow breathing and cause constipation. It may also interact with other pain medicines and sedatives used after surgery. Always inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It can cause drowsiness and dry mouth, and it may interact with sedatives or pain medicines used during dental work. Do not take extra doses before a dental appointment unless your doctor advises it.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise while taking this medicine because it can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and slow breathing. Light activity such as walking may be okay if you feel well, but stop if you feel dizzy or short of breath.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine can cause significant drowsiness and slow reaction times, which can affect your ability to work, drive, or operate machinery. Avoid driving and operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. If your job requires alertness, discuss with your doctor whether a different medicine would be safer.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop taking this medicine when your cough improves or after the short course prescribed by your doctor. Do not continue it for more than a few days without medical advice. If you have been taking it regularly for more than a few days, talk to your doctor before stopping, as you may need a gradual reduction to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Seek medical advice if your cough persists, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, chest pain, or breathlessness.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended. Prolonged use of codeine can lead to dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms when the medicine is stopped. It can also cause persistent constipation, drowsiness, and mood changes. If you have been using this medicine for more than a few days, talk to your doctor before stopping, as a gradual reduction may be needed. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function may be required if long-term use is unavoidable.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Non-opioid cough suppressants that may be safer alternatives for some adults.
Evidence: Established for short-term dry coughCan soothe the throat and reduce cough frequency, especially at night.
Evidence: Limited but supportiveHelp reduce throat irritation and loosen mucus.
Evidence: SupportiveAddressing allergies, asthma, or infections may resolve the cough without codeine.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
Not established from the available information. There is no known interaction between this medicine and vaccines. If you are due for a vaccination, inform your doctor that you are taking this medicine.
📦 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 cap tightly closed
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and heat
❌ DON'T
Do not store in the bathroom cabinet
✅ DO
Keep out of the reach of children
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
If you are travelling with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging with the prescription label clearly visible. Keep a copy of your prescription with you, as codeine-containing medicines may be controlled in some countries. Store the bottle at room temperature and protect it from heat and direct sunlight. If you are crossing time zones, continue taking the medicine at the intervals prescribed by your doctor, but do not take extra doses to adjust for the time change. Check the customs rules of your destination before travelling, because codeine may be restricted or banned in some countries.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine usually starts to reduce cough within 30 to 60 minutes after taking a dose.
A: It should be used only for a short time, usually no more than a few days, because codeine can cause dependence.
A: No. Alcohol greatly increases the risk of severe drowsiness and slow breathing and should be completely avoided.
A: No. This medicine is not recommended for children or adolescents under 18 years of age.
A: No. This medicine can cause drowsiness and slow reaction times. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you.
A: If you remember within half the dosing interval, take the missed dose. If more than half the interval has passed, skip it and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for histolate syrup
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
codex 4 mg/10 mg expectorantConcept Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹14.06 67.4% CHEAPER
-
cirocod 4mg/10mg linctusCiron Drugs & Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd ₹20.00 53.6% CHEAPER
-
respinex cd 4 mg/10 mg syrupAlembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹24.38 43.5% CHEAPER
-
kodekof syrupFinecure Pharmaceuticals Ltd. ₹26.00 39.7% CHEAPER
-
cofrex syrupTunic Healthcare ₹26.06 39.6% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine is safe for children with cough.
Fact: This medicine is not recommended for children or adolescents under 18 years of age because it can cause serious breathing problems. - Myth: This medicine can be taken for weeks without any risk.
Fact: This medicine contains codeine, which can cause dependence and withdrawal if used for more than a few days. It should be used only for short-term relief. - Myth: It is safe to drink alcohol while taking this medicine.
Fact: Alcohol greatly increases the risk of severe drowsiness and slow breathing and should be completely avoided. - Myth: This medicine treats the underlying cause of cough.
Fact: This medicine only suppresses the cough reflex. It does not treat infections, allergies, or other causes of cough.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Chlorpheniramine maleate and codeine syrup
Brand Alternatives
- Grilinctus CD Syrup