respidex syrup - Diphenhydramine (14.08mg) + Ammonium Chloride (0.138mg) medicine

Respidex Syrup: Complete Medicine Guide

No reviews yet
🏭 Auroma Lifescience Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 21, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate for cough and allergic rhinitis.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 21, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
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
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Confusion or hallucinations
  • Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty swallowing)
  • Blood in vomit or stool
  • Seizures

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is respidex syrup used for?

This medicine is a combination syrup containing diphenhydramine (an antihistamine) and ammonium chloride (an expectorant). It is used to relieve cough and allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy throat. It works by blocking histamine and thinning mucus. It should be taken as directed by a doctor, usually every 4-6 hours, and should not be used for more than a few days without medical advice.

  • Generic Name: Diphenhydramine (14.08mg) + Ammonium Chloride (0.138mg)
  • Manufacturer: Auroma Lifescience Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 respidex syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा खांसी और एलर्जी के लक्षणों जैसे छींक, नाक बहना, गले में खुजली और आंखों में पानी आना के इलाज के लिए उपयोग की जाती है। यह डिपेनहाइड्रामाइन और अमोनियम क्लोराइड का संयोजन है, जो खांसी को कम करने और बलगम को पतला करने में मदद करता है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, मुंह सूखना, धुंधली दृष्टि और पेट खराब होना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन इनमें भ्रम, मतिभ्रम, तेज धड़कन और एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया शामिल हो सकती है। यदि कोई गंभीर लक्षण दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा की अनुशंसित खुराक से अधिक न लें। गाड़ी चलाने या मशीनरी चलाने से बचें क्योंकि यह नींद का कारण बन सकती है। इस दवा के साथ शराब न पिएं। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं, गर्भवती होने की योजना बना रही हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं, तो उपयोग से पहले डॉक्टर से परामर्श करें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें। यदि लक्षण कुछ दिनों में ठीक न हों तो डॉक्टर से मिलें।

💡 Did You Know? The Indian pharmaceutical market is expected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

💊 respidex syrup Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Cough associated with upper respiratory tract infections","description":"This medicine helps relieve cough by reducing throat irritation and thinning mucus, making it easier to expel.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Diphenhydramine provides relief from sneezing, runny nose, and itching due to allergies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Common cold","description":"This medicine may alleviate cough and nasal congestion associated with the common cold.","evidence":"Supportive"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Insomnia","description":"Due to its sedative properties, diphenhydramine is sometimes used off-label for short-term sleep aid.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Motion sickness","description":"Diphenhydramine may be used off-label to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Cough and allergic rhinitis

Also treats: Common cold, Upper respiratory tract infections

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Diphenhydramine (14.08mg) + Ammonium Chloride (0.138mg)
Brand Namerespidex syrup
ManufacturerAuroma Lifescience Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action Class
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep the bottle tightly closed.
Shelf Life24 months from the 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 with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
2
Avoid driving or operating machinery after taking this medicine because it can cause drowsiness.
3
Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine as it can increase sedation.
4
Use a proper measuring device to ensure accurate dosing.
5
Do not use this medicine for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor.
6
If you have a history of asthma or COPD, use this medicine with caution and only under medical supervision.
7
Keep this medicine out of reach of children.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Cough
This medicine is commonly prescribed for cough.
Likely Use
✅
Sneezing
This medicine helps with allergic sneezing.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Body ache
This medicine is not indicated for body ache.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionDiphenhydramine is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Ammonium chloride is also absorbed orally. The syrup formulation allows for rapid absorption.
DistributionDiphenhydramine is widely distributed throughout the body, including the central nervous system, due to its lipophilic nature. Ammonium chloride distributes in extracellular fluids.
Protein BindingDiphenhydramine is approximately 98% bound to plasma proteins. Ammonium chloride is not significantly protein-bound.
MetabolismDiphenhydramine is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by cytochrome P450 enzymes, including CYP2D6. Ammonium chloride is metabolized in the liver to urea and hydrochloric acid.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of diphenhydramine is approximately 4 to 9 hours. The half-life of ammonium chloride is not well established.
ExcretionDiphenhydramine and its metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine. Ammonium chloride is excreted in urine as urea and chloride ions.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of diphenhydramine is approximately 40% to 60%. Bioavailability of ammonium chloride is not well established.
Onset of ActionDiphenhydramine onset of action is typically 15 to 30 minutes after oral administration. Ammonium chloride onset is within 30 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentration of diphenhydramine is reached in about 2 to 3 hours. Peak effect of ammonium chloride is around 1 to 2 hours.
Duration of ActionThe effects of diphenhydramine last about 4 to 6 hours. Ammonium chloride effects last about 4 to 6 hours.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients. Diphenhydramine is a first-generation antihistamine that competitively blocks histamine H1 receptors, reducing allergic symptoms and exerting a sedative effect on the central nervous system. Ammonium chloride is an expectorant that irritates the gastric mucosa, reflexively increasing respiratory tract secretions, which helps thin mucus and facilitates its removal by coughing.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine H1 receptor blockade: Diphenhydramine binds to H1 receptors, preventing histamine from triggering allergic responses such as sneezing, itching, and vasodilation.
2
Central nervous system depression: Diphenhydramine crosses the blood-brain barrier and causes sedation by blocking histaminergic neurotransmission in the brain.
3
Anticholinergic effects: Diphenhydramine also blocks muscarinic receptors, leading to dry mouth, blurred vision, and urinary retention.
4
Expectorant action: Ammonium chloride stimulates gastric mucosa, reflexively increasing respiratory secretions and thinning mucus.

💡 How to Take respidex syrup

Strength: Each 5 mL of syrup contains Diphenhydramine 14.08 mg and Ammonium Chloride 0.138 mg.

1Shake the bottle well before each use.
2Use a measuring cup or spoon to measure the dose accurately.
3Take the medicine orally, with or without food.
4Follow the dosage instructions on the label or as prescribed by your doctor.
5Do not exceed the recommended dose.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 5 to 10 mL (one to two teaspoons) every 4 to 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. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of diphenhydramine, especially sedation and anticholinergic effects. Start with a lower dose and monitor closely. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose for adults is 60 mL of this syrup in 24 hours. Do not exceed this dose.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals or milk
Reduces stomach upset.
Grapefruit
Avoid large amounts
May increase drug levels.

⏰ 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 respidex syrup

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (10-20%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery. If persistent, consult your doctor.
Dry mouth (Common (5-10%))
Sip water or chew sugarless gum. If severe, consult your doctor.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Rise slowly from sitting or lying position. Avoid sudden movements.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Hallucinations or confusion (Rare (<0.1%))
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms.
Urinary retention (Rare (<0.1%))
Consult your doctor if you are unable to urinate.
Rapid or irregular heartbeat (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice palpitations.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Blood dyscrasias
Report any unusual bleeding, bruising, or signs of infection to your doctor.
Seizures
Seek emergency medical help if seizures occur.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAO inhibitors Major
Alcohol Major
Benzodiazepines Major
Tricyclic antidepressants Moderate
Fluoxetine Moderate
Metoclopramide Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • MAO inhibitors
  • Alcohol
  • Other CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine, tricyclic antidepressants)
  • CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol increases the sedative effects of diphenhydramine and should be avoided while taking this medicine. It can also increase the risk of dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired coordination.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to diphenhydramine or ammonium chloride","Newborns and premature infants","Nursing mothers","Patients with narrow-angle glaucoma","Patients with stenosing peptic ulcer","Patients with bladder neck obstruction","Patients with severe liver or kidney disease"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May impair ability to drive or operate machinery.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of confusion and falls.","Use with caution in patients with asthma or COPD.","Do not use for chronic cough without medical advice.","May cause dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention.","Consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Diphenhydramine passes into breast milk and may cause drowsiness in the infant. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe drowsiness, hallucinations, seizures, respiratory depression, and cardiac arrhythmias. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Gastric lavage may be considered if within 1-2 hours of ingestion. There is no specific antidote.

⏰ 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 of this medicine. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as it can cause drowsiness. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness and other side effects. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Do not use this medicine for a chronic cough or a cough with excessive mucus without medical advice. Keep out of reach of children. If symptoms do not improve within a few days or worsen, seek medical attention.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the sedative and anticholinergic effects of diphenhydramine. They may experience confusion, dizziness, and falls. Use with caution and consider lower doses. Consult a doctor before use.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Diphenhydramine is generally considered safe in pregnancy, but ammonium chloride should be used with caution.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Consult your doctor before using this medicine after surgery, as it may interact with anesthetics and other medications. It can also increase the risk of drowsiness and respiratory depression.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it can cause dry mouth and may interact with sedatives used during dental procedures.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated to help thin mucus.
🥗
Use a humidifier to ease cough and congestion.
😴
Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
💧
Get plenty of rest to support recovery.
🧘
Gargle with warm salt water to soothe a sore throat.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise while taking this medicine, especially if you experience drowsiness or dizziness. Light activity is fine if you feel well.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink warm fluids like herbal tea and soup.
Avoid cold drinks and ice cream.
Include honey and ginger in your diet.
Eat light, easily digestible meals.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. It may also reduce your concentration, so be cautious with tasks requiring alertness.

🛑 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 severe 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 diphenhydramine may lead to tolerance, dependence, and cognitive effects. Ammonium chloride may cause metabolic acidosis with prolonged use. Regular monitoring may be required if used for extended periods.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Steam inhalation

Helps loosen mucus and relieve cough.

Evidence: Supportive
Honey and warm fluids

Soothes the throat and reduces cough.

Evidence: Supportive
Saline nasal spray

Helps clear nasal congestion.

Evidence: Supportive

💉 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 about all medicines you are taking.

📦 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

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label. Bring a copy of your prescription in case of customs checks. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, continue your regular dosing schedule as prescribed. Do not leave it in a hot car.

💰 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 cough and sneezing. She took it as directed and found relief within 30 minutes. She experienced mild drowsiness, so she took it at bedtime. She avoided driving after taking it.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine at bedtime can help manage drowsiness while providing relief from cough and allergy symptoms.
👤 A 60-year-old man with a cold and persistent cough
He used this medicine for 3 days and his cough improved. However, he experienced dry mouth and dizziness. He consulted his doctor, who advised him to stop the medicine and recommended other treatments.
💡 Lesson: If side effects are bothersome, consult a doctor. This medicine may not be suitable for everyone, especially the elderly.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 30 minutes after oral administration.

Q: Can I take this medicine with other cold medicines?

A: Consult your doctor before combining with other cold medicines, as they may contain similar ingredients and increase the risk of side effects.

Q: Is this medicine safe for children?

A: Pediatric dosing is not established. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate use in children.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: 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.

Q: Can I take this medicine if I am pregnant?

A: Consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

🤔 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?

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure any type of cough.
    Fact: This medicine is effective for cough associated with allergies or colds, but not for all types of cough, such as those caused by bacterial infections or asthma.
  • Myth: It is safe to take this medicine for a long time.
    Fact: Prolonged use without medical supervision can lead to side effects and may mask underlying conditions. Use only as directed.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Diphenhydramine and Ammonium Chloride Syrup

Brand Alternatives

  • Respidex Syrup

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Respidex Syrup","active_ingredients":"Diphenhydramine + Ammonium Chloride","primary_use":"Cough and allergy relief","sedation":"Yes"},{"medicine":"Diphenhydramine Syrup","active_ingredients":"Diphenhydramine","primary_use":"Allergy relief","sedation":"Yes"},{"medicine":"Guaifenesin Syrup","active_ingredients":"Guaifenesin","primary_use":"Expectorant for cough","sedation":"No"}]

😊 Was this information helpful?

Browse Medicines A-Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Back to Medicines Directory