Kumaphyl 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
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Irregular or rapid heartbeat
- Seizures or convulsions
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Decreased urine output or inability to urinate
- Severe abdominal pain
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is kumaphyl syrup used for?
This medicine is a combination syrup containing Chlorpheniramine Maleate (an antihistamine) and Ammonium Chloride (an expectorant). It is used for temporary relief of cough and cold symptoms, including runny nose, sneezing, and cough with mucus. It works by blocking histamine and thinning mucus. It may cause drowsiness, so avoid driving. Do not use in children under 2 years without medical advice.
- Generic Name: Chlorpheniramine Maleate (2mg) + Ammonium Chloride (120mg)
- Manufacturer: Kumayun Drugs Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 kumaphyl syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा एलर्जी और सर्दी-खांसी के लक्षणों जैसे नाक बहना, छींक आना, आंखों में खुजली और बलगम वाली खांसी में राहत के लिए दी जाती है। इसमें क्लोरफेनिरामाइन मेलिएट और अमोनियम क्लोराइड होते हैं। क्लोरफेनिरामाइन एलर्जी को कम करता है और अमोनियम क्लोराइड बलगम को पतला करके निकालने में मदद करता है। यह दवा नींद ला सकती है, इसलिए गाड़ी चलाने से बचें। बच्चों को 2 साल से कम उम्र में बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के न दें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, मुंह सूखना, धुंधली दृष्टि और पेट खराब होना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन एलर्जी, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, दिल की धड़कन अनियमित होना हो सकता है। ऐसा होने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। नींद आ सकती है, इसलिए वाहन चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। शराब का सेवन न करें। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। 2 साल से छोटे बच्चों को न दें। दवा को ठंडी और सूखी जगह पर रखें।
💊 kumaphyl syrup Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Relieves sneezing, runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes associated with seasonal or perennial allergies.","evidence":"Well-established for chlorpheniramine component"},{"condition":"Common cold","description":"Provides symptomatic relief of cough and nasal congestion due to minor upper respiratory tract infections.","evidence":"Commonly used, though evidence for combination is limited"},{"condition":"Cough with thick mucus","description":"Ammonium chloride helps loosen mucus, making cough more productive.","evidence":"Traditionally used as an expectorant"}]
Off-label uses: []
Primary treatment for: Allergic rhinitis and cough associated with upper respiratory tract infections
Also treats: Common cold, Allergic cough, Sinusitis (symptomatic relief)
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Chlorpheniramine Maleate (2mg) + Ammonium Chloride (120mg) |
| Brand Name | kumaphyl syrup |
| Manufacturer | Kumayun Drugs 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 (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed. Do not freeze. |
| 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
Chlorpheniramine Maleate works by competitively blocking histamine H1 receptors on effector cells, thereby reducing allergic symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itching. It also has anticholinergic properties that contribute to drying of secretions. Ammonium chloride acts as an expectorant by irritating the gastric mucosa, which reflexively stimulates respiratory tract secretions, reducing mucus viscosity and making it easier to cough up. The combination provides symptomatic relief of cough and cold due to allergies or mild infections.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take kumaphyl syrup
Strength: Each 5 mL of syrup contains Chlorpheniramine Maleate 2 mg and Ammonium Chloride 120 mg.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose is 5 to 10 mL (1 to 2 teaspoons) every 4 to 6 hours as needed, not to exceed 6 doses in 24 hours. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Use the measuring cup provided with the product for accurate dosing. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children. This medicine is not recommended for children under 2 years of age. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of chlorpheniramine, especially drowsiness, confusion, and anticholinergic effects. Use with caution and consider a lower dose. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Renal Impairment | Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. Ammonium chloride may cause metabolic acidosis. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Chlorpheniramine is metabolized in the liver, and ammonium chloride may worsen hepatic encephalopathy. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose for adults is 60 mL (12 teaspoons) in 24 hours. Do not exceed this dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of kumaphyl syrup
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| MAOIs | Major | |
| Alcohol | Major | |
| Benzodiazepines | Major | |
| Opioids | Major | |
| Tricyclic antidepressants | Moderate | |
| SSRIs | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Central nervous system depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine, tricyclic antidepressants)
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can significantly increase drowsiness, dizziness, and impairment of judgment and motor skills. Combining alcohol with chlorpheniramine can 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 chlorpheniramine, ammonium chloride, or any component of the formulation","Neonates and premature infants","Patients with severe liver disease or hepatic encephalopathy","Patients with severe kidney disease","Patients with narrow-angle glaucoma","Patients with symptomatic prostate enlargement or bladder neck obstruction","Patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until effects are known.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of confusion, dry mouth, and urinary retention.","Use with caution in patients with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory conditions.","May cause urinary retention; caution in patients with prostate enlargement.","May increase intraocular pressure; caution in patients with glaucoma.","Prolonged use may lead to electrolyte imbalances; monitor if used for more than 2 weeks.","Do not exceed recommended dose; overdose can cause serious side effects.","Consult a doctor before use in pregnancy or breastfeeding.","Keep out of reach of children."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Chlorpheniramine is excreted in breast milk and may cause drowsiness in the infant. Ammonium chloride is also excreted in breast milk. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose may cause severe drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, dry mouth, flushing, tachycardia, hallucinations, seizures, and respiratory depression. In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention. 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 use it for longer than recommended without medical advice. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as it may cause drowsiness. Avoid consuming alcohol or other central nervous system depressants while taking this medicine, as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Do not give this medicine to children under 2 years of age unless directed by a pediatrician. Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. If you have kidney disease, heart disease, glaucoma, or prostate enlargement, inform your doctor before taking this medicine. Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are more sensitive to the sedative and anticholinergic effects of chlorpheniramine. They may experience increased drowsiness, confusion, dry mouth, and urinary retention. Use with caution and consider a lower dose. Regular monitoring for falls and cognitive changes is advised.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Chlorpheniramine is generally considered safe in pregnancy but should be used with caution, especially in the first trimester. Ammonium chloride safety in pregnancy is not well established.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
After surgery, use this medicine with caution as it may increase drowsiness and interact with anesthetic agents. Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist about all medications you are taking before surgery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
This medicine may cause dry mouth, which can increase the risk of dental problems. Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It may also interact with sedatives used in dentistry.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise while taking this medicine, especially if you feel drowsy or dizzy. Light activities like walking may be fine if you feel up to it, but listen to your body and rest when needed.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause drowsiness and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid tasks that require full alertness until you know how the medicine affects you. It is best to take it when you can rest, such as at bedtime. If you need to work, inform your employer about your medication if it affects your performance.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve within 7 days, if they worsen, or if you experience any serious side effects. 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 chlorpheniramine may lead to tolerance, dependence, and increased risk of side effects such as drowsiness and anticholinergic effects. Ammonium chloride can cause electrolyte imbalances and metabolic acidosis if used for extended periods. Regular monitoring of renal function and electrolytes may be necessary if long-term use is required.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Helps clear nasal passages and reduce congestion without medication.
Evidence: Well-establishedCan help loosen mucus and soothe irritated airways.
Evidence: Traditionally used, some evidenceSoothes sore throat and may help suppress cough.
Evidence: Some evidence for cough relief💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are scheduled for vaccination, inform your healthcare provider that you are taking this medicine.
📦 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
✅ 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 with the prescription label intact. Bring a copy of your prescription in case you need to show it at customs. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. If you are crossing time zones, continue taking the medicine as prescribed, but adjust the timing gradually to the new local schedule. Do not leave it in a hot car or checked luggage. If you are flying, keep it in your carry-on bag.
💰 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 it.
A: Yes, it can be taken at night. In fact, taking it at bedtime may help manage drowsiness.
A: Consult your doctor before combining with other cold medicines to avoid overlapping ingredients and side effects.
A: Take it as soon as you remember, but if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure the common cold.
Fact: This medicine only provides symptomatic relief; it does not cure the underlying viral infection. - Myth: It is safe to take this medicine with alcohol.
Fact: Alcohol increases drowsiness and other side effects; it should be avoided. - Myth: More medicine means faster relief.
Fact: Taking more than the recommended dose can cause serious side effects and does not speed up recovery.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Ammonium Chloride syrup (various manufacturers)