Dexophan BR Syrup: Comprehensive 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
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Chest pain or palpitations
- Hallucinations or confusion
- Severe allergic reaction (swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat)
- Blood in sputum or vomit
- Cough lasting more than 7 days with fever, rash, or persistent headache
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is recodex syrup used for?
This medicine is a combination cough syrup containing bromhexine (a mucolytic) and dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant). It is used to relieve cough with mucus. It should be taken as prescribed, usually 10 ml three to four times daily for adults. Avoid alcohol and driving. Consult a doctor if cough persists beyond 7 days.
- Generic Name: Bromhexine (4mg/5ml) + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (5mg/5ml)
- Manufacturer: Reco Drugs
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 recodex syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा ब्रोंकाइटिस, सर्दी-खांसी और श्वसन संक्रमण के कारण होने वाली बलगम वाली खांसी के इलाज में उपयोग की जाती है। इसमें ब्रोमहेक्सिन बलगम को पतला करता है और डेक्सट्रोमेथोर्फन खांसी की प्रतिक्रिया को कम करता है। यह दवा केवल डॉक्टर की सलाह पर ही लेनी चाहिए।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, जी मिचलाना, उल्टी, पेट में परेशानी और सिरदर्द शामिल हैं। कुछ लोगों को एलर्जी, घबराहट या दिल की धड़कन तेज हो सकती है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन सांस लेने में कठिनाई, भ्रम या बेहोशी हो सकती है।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार 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। अगर खांसी 7 दिन से अधिक रहे तो डॉक्टर से मिलें। बच्चों को डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना न दें। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से परामर्श करें।
💊 recodex syrup Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Productive cough with thick mucus","description":"Helps loosen and thin mucus in the airways, making it easier to expel.","evidence":"Well-established for bromhexine component"},{"condition":"Dry, irritating cough","description":"Suppresses the cough reflex through central action of dextromethorphan.","evidence":"Well-established for dextromethorphan component"},{"condition":"Acute bronchitis","description":"Provides symptomatic relief of cough associated with acute bronchitis.","evidence":"Commonly used, evidence supportive"},{"condition":"Chronic bronchitis","description":"May help manage cough and mucus in chronic bronchitis, but does not treat underlying disease.","evidence":"Limited, used as adjunct"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Pre-operative cough suppression","description":"Sometimes used to reduce coughing during certain procedures, but not a standard practice.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Cough associated with respiratory tract conditions
Also treats: Acute bronchitis, Chronic bronchitis, Common cold with cough, Upper respiratory tract infection
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Bromhexine (4mg/5ml) + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (5mg/5ml) |
| Brand Name | recodex syrup |
| Manufacturer | Reco Drugs |
| 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. Keep out of reach of children. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture, unless otherwise stated on the packaging. |
| 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 complementary actions. Bromhexine works as a mucolytic by increasing the production of serous fluid in the respiratory tract and breaking down acidic mucopolysaccharide fibers in mucus, thereby reducing mucus viscosity and making it easier to clear. Dextromethorphan hydrobromide acts centrally on the cough center in the medulla oblongata, specifically at sigma-1 receptor sites, to suppress the cough reflex. Together, they address both mucus congestion and the cough reflex, providing symptomatic relief in cough associated with excessive mucus.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take recodex syrup
Strength: Each 5 ml of syrup contains Bromhexine Hydrochloride 4 mg and Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 5 mg.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is 10 ml (two teaspoons) taken three to four times daily, or as directed by a physician. The dose may vary based on the severity of cough and individual response. Do not exceed 40 ml in 24 hours without medical advice. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. |
| 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 effects of dextromethorphan, especially drowsiness and dizziness. Use with caution and consider starting at a lower dose. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal and hepatic function. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with severe renal impairment, dose reduction may be necessary. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In patients with severe hepatic impairment, dose reduction may be necessary. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose for adults is 40 ml of syrup (providing 32 mg bromhexine and 40 mg dextromethorphan hydrobromide) in 24 hours. Do not exceed this without medical supervision. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of recodex 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 | |
| CNS depressants | Moderate | |
| Anticholinergics | Moderate | |
| Amiodarone | Moderate | |
| Grapefruit juice | Moderate | |
| Antibiotics (amoxicillin) | Minor | |
| Diuretics | Minor | |
| Warfarin | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- MAO inhibitors (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine)
- SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine)
- CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., quinidine, terbinafine)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids, alcohol)
- Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants)
- Amiodarone
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine. Both dextromethorphan and alcohol are central nervous system depressants, and their combined use can lead to increased drowsiness, dizziness, impaired judgment, and potentially dangerous respiratory depression. Avoid alcohol completely during treatment.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Hypersensitivity to bromhexine, dextromethorphan, or any component of the formulation.","Concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of stopping MAOI therapy.","Patients with respiratory depression or severe respiratory insufficiency.","Children under 12 years of age (unless specifically prescribed by a pediatrician).","Patients with chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema, unless directed by a doctor.","Patients with cough accompanied by excessive secretions, as cough suppression may be harmful."]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Do not exceed the recommended dose; high doses of dextromethorphan can cause hallucinations, dissociation, and respiratory depression.","May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants during treatment.","Consult a doctor if cough persists for more than 7 days, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache.","Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed.","Not recommended for children under 12 years without medical advice.","If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before use.","Do not use for chronic cough unless advised by a doctor.","Keep out of reach of children; accidental overdose can be dangerous.","Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications, especially antidepressants."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether bromhexine and dextromethorphan are excreted in human breast milk. Because many drugs are excreted in breast milk, caution should be exercised when this medicine is administered to a nursing woman. Consult your doctor before use.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, hallucinations, agitation, rapid heart rate, and in severe cases, respiratory depression, seizures, and coma. If overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote for dextromethorphan or bromhexine. 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 or duration of use. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as it may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase drowsiness and impair judgment. Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver or kidney disease, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Do not use this medicine for a chronic cough that lasts more than 7 days without medical evaluation. Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the central nervous system effects of dextromethorphan, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. Use with caution, starting at a lower dose. Monitor for falls and cognitive changes. Renal and hepatic function should be assessed before use.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy or are pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. The safety of this combination during pregnancy is not well established. Use only if clearly needed and prescribed by a healthcare professional.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
After surgery, cough suppression may be beneficial to prevent strain on surgical sites, but consult your surgeon before using this medicine. It may interact with anesthetics or other postoperative medications. Use only under medical supervision.
🦷 Dental Procedures
If you are undergoing dental procedures, inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine. It may cause dry mouth, which can affect dental work. Also, cough suppression may be beneficial during procedures, but consult your dentist.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise while taking this medicine, especially if you experience drowsiness or dizziness. Light activity is fine if you feel well, but listen to your body and rest when needed.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. It is advisable to take it when you can rest, such as at home. If you need to work, inform your employer if you feel impaired.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop taking this medicine if your cough resolves or if you experience any serious side effects. Do not use for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor. If your cough worsens or persists, seek medical advice. Do not stop abruptly if you have been on long-term therapy without medical guidance.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended. Prolonged use of dextromethorphan can lead to tolerance, dependence, and rare cases of toxicity. Bromhexine is generally well-tolerated, but long-term safety data are limited. If cough persists beyond 7 days, further evaluation is needed to rule out underlying conditions. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function may be advisable with extended use.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Helps loosen mucus and soothe airways.
Evidence: Commonly used, supportiveCan soothe throat and reduce cough frequency.
Evidence: Some evidence for symptomatic reliefHelps clear nasal congestion and postnasal drip.
Evidence: Well-established for upper respiratory symptoms💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are acutely ill with a cough, it is best to postpone vaccination until you recover, as per general medical advice.
📦 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 a copy of your prescription. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If traveling across time zones, adjust dosing times gradually to maintain consistent intervals. Check customs regulations for carrying medications. Keep it in your carry-on luggage if flying, and ensure it is properly sealed to prevent leakage.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: Cough suppression may begin within 15-30 minutes, while mucolytic effects may take a few hours. Full benefit may be seen within 1-2 days of regular use.
A: Yes, you can take it with or without food. Taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.
A: Do not take with other cough suppressants or mucolytics without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to overdose or increased side effects.
A: Take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.
A: Yes, if your symptoms have resolved, you may stop. However, if you have been taking it for a chronic condition, consult your doctor before stopping.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for recodex syrup
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
kufmip-b syrupHD Pharmaceuticals ₹42.19 114.3% COSTLIER
-
qril dm syrupHimalaya Meditek Pvt Ltd ₹45.94 133.3% COSTLIER
-
new cofdex syrupCipla Ltd ₹52.97 169% COSTLIER
-
livetuss dm syrupAlive Healthcare ₹55.50 181.9% COSTLIER
-
kofnok p syrupMedley Pharmaceuticals ₹60.94 209.5% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure any type of cough.
Fact: It is only for symptomatic relief of cough and does not treat the underlying cause. It is not effective for all cough types. - Myth: More syrup means faster relief.
Fact: Taking more than the recommended dose can cause serious side effects and does not speed up recovery. - Myth: It is safe to take with alcohol.
Fact: Alcohol increases the risk of drowsiness and respiratory depression and should be avoided. - Myth: It can be given to young children without doctor's advice.
Fact: It is not recommended for children under 12 years without medical supervision.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Bromhexine + Dextromethorphan syrup (various manufacturers)
Brand Alternatives
- Dexophan BR Syrup