siokof p syrup - Bromhexine (NA) + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (NA) medicine

Dexbro Syrup: Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Safety

No reviews yet
🏭 Albert David Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 21, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate for symptomatic relief of cough.
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
  • Swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Hallucinations or confusion
  • Chest pain or rapid heartbeat
  • Cough with blood or rust-colored sputum
  • Fever lasting more than 3 days

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is siokof p syrup used for?

This medicine is a combination cough syrup containing bromhexine (mucolytic) and dextromethorphan (cough suppressant). It is used for temporary relief of dry, irritating cough. It should not be used for more than 7 days without medical advice.

  • Generic Name: Bromhexine (NA) + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (NA)
  • Manufacturer: Albert David Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 siokof p syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा ब्रोंकाइटिस और डेक्सट्रोमेथोर्फन का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग सूखी, चिड़चिड़ी खांसी के अस्थायी राहत के लिए किया जाता है। यह बलगम को पतला करती है और खांसी की प्रतिक्रिया को कम करती है। यह आम सर्दी या हल्के श्वसन संक्रमण से जुड़ी खांसी में मदद करती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, मतली, उल्टी, पेट में परेशानी और सिरदर्द शामिल हो सकते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, या मतिभ्रम हो सकते हैं। यदि ऐसा हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा की अनुशंसित खुराक से अधिक न लें। गाड़ी चलाने या मशीनरी चलाने से बचें जब तक आप जान न लें कि यह दवा आपको कैसे प्रभावित करती है। शराब का सेवन न करें। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं तो डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। 7 दिनों से अधिक इस दवा का उपयोग न करें।

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

💊 siokof p syrup Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Dry, irritating cough","description":"Helps suppress the cough reflex and reduce throat irritation associated with dry cough.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Productive cough with thick mucus","description":"Bromhexine thins mucus, making it easier to expel, while dextromethorphan reduces excessive coughing.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Cough due to common cold","description":"Provides symptomatic relief of cough associated with upper respiratory tract infections.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: []

Primary treatment for: Cough

Also treats: Common cold, Upper respiratory tract infection, Bronchitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Bromhexine (NA) + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (NA)
Brand Namesiokof p syrup
ManufacturerAlbert David 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. Do not refrigerate unless specified. Keep out of reach of children.
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
Stay well hydrated throughout the day to help thin mucus.
3
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it increases drowsiness.
4
Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
5
Consult your doctor if cough persists beyond 7 days.
6
Report any unusual drowsiness, dizziness, or allergic reactions immediately.
7
Do not use this medicine for chronic cough without medical evaluation.

🔍 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
❌
Productive cough with phlegm
This medicine may suppress cough reflex and is not ideal for productive cough.
Not Primary
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionBromhexine is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Dextromethorphan is also well absorbed orally. However, specific bioavailability data for this fixed-dose combination is not established from the available information.
DistributionBoth bromhexine and dextromethorphan are distributed widely in the body. Bromhexine crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta. Dextromethorphan is distributed to the brain and other tissues. Protein binding information for the combination is not established from the available information.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismBromhexine undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver. Dextromethorphan is metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes, primarily CYP2D6. Specific metabolic data for the combination is not established from the available information.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of bromhexine is approximately 1-2 hours. Dextromethorphan has a half-life of about 2-4 hours. However, specific half-life for the combination is not established from the available information.
ExcretionBromhexine and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine. Dextromethorphan and its metabolites are also excreted in urine. Specific excretion data for the combination is not established from the available information.
BioavailabilityNot established from the available information.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action for dextromethorphan is typically within 15-30 minutes after oral administration. Bromhexine's mucolytic effect may take a few hours to become noticeable. Specific onset data for the combination is not established from the available information.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations for bromhexine are reached in about 1 hour; for dextromethorphan, about 2-3 hours. Specific data for the combination is not established from the available information.
Duration of ActionThe cough suppressant effect of dextromethorphan lasts approximately 4-6 hours. The mucolytic effect of bromhexine may last longer. Specific duration for the combination is not established from the available information.

How It Works

This medicine combines a mucolytic and a centrally acting cough suppressant. Bromhexine works by breaking down the structure of acidic mucopolysaccharide fibers in mucus, reducing its viscosity and making it easier to clear from the airways. Dextromethorphan hydrobromide acts on the cough center in the medulla oblongata in the brain, raising the threshold for coughing and thereby reducing the frequency and intensity of the cough reflex. It does not have analgesic or respiratory depressant effects at usual doses.

Mechanism Steps

1
Bromhexine breaks down mucus: Bromhexine reduces the viscosity of mucus by depolymerizing mucopolysaccharide fibers, making it easier to cough out.
2
Dextromethorphan suppresses cough: Dextromethorphan acts on the cough center in the brain to reduce the cough reflex.
3
Combined effect: The combination provides both mucus clearance and cough suppression for symptomatic relief.

💡 How to Take siokof p syrup

Strength: Each 5 ml of syrup contains bromhexine hydrochloride 4 mg and dextromethorphan hydrobromide 10 mg.

1Shake the bottle well before use.
2Use a measuring cup or spoon to measure the exact dose.
3Take the medicine orally with or without food.
4Swallow the syrup; do not chew or crush.
5Follow the prescribed frequency and duration.
6Do not exceed the recommended dose.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 10 ml (two teaspoons) three times a day, or as directed by a physician. The dose may vary based on the severity of cough and individual response. Do not exceed the recommended dose. 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 the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness and dizziness. Use with caution and consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.
Renal ImpairmentDose adjustment may be required in patients with renal impairment. Consult a doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentDose adjustment may be required in patients with hepatic impairment. Consult a doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose for adults is 30 ml (6 teaspoons) in divided doses. Do not exceed this without medical advice.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases drowsiness and CNS depression.

⏰ 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 siokof p syrup

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery. Usually resolves on its own.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Sit or lie down until it passes. Consult doctor if persistent.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
Vomiting (Uncommon (1-5%))
Stay hydrated. Consult doctor if severe or persistent.
Stomach discomfort (Common (5-10%))
Take with meals. Consult doctor if it continues.
Headache (Uncommon (1-5%))
Rest and stay hydrated. Consult doctor if severe.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Hallucinations (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop the medicine and consult a doctor immediately.
Respiratory depression (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency medical care if breathing becomes slow or shallow.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Serotonin syndrome
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, or muscle stiffness.
Blood dyscrasias
Consult doctor if you notice unusual bleeding or bruising.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAO inhibitors Major
SSRIs Major
CYP2D6 inhibitors Major
Alcohol Moderate
Benzodiazepines Moderate
Opioids Moderate
Antihistamines Moderate
Antacids 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., alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids)
  • Antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness, dizziness, and the risk of respiratory depression. It may also worsen stomach irritation.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to bromhexine or dextromethorphan","Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors","Children under 12 years (unless prescribed)","Chronic cough with excessive mucus","Severe liver or kidney impairment"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Do not exceed recommended dose","Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you","Avoid alcohol","Consult doctor if cough persists more than 7 days","Use with caution in patients with asthma or COPD","Not for use in children under 12 without medical advice"]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Not established from the available information. Consult your doctor before use.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, and respiratory depression. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote for dextromethorphan; naloxone may be used in severe respiratory depression. Bromhexine overdose may cause gastrointestinal upset. Contact a poison control center or emergency department immediately.

⏰ 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

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 may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase drowsiness and impair judgment. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Do not use this medicine for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor. Keep out of reach of children. If you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, or chronic respiratory conditions like asthma, use only under medical supervision. Do not take this medicine if you are currently taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have taken one in the last 14 days.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. Use with caution and consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

Consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of this medicine during pregnancy is not established.

🏥 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 before any dental procedure, as it may cause dry mouth or interact with anesthetics.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated to help thin mucus.
🥗
Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
😴
Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
💧
Get plenty of rest to support recovery.
🧘
Gargle with warm salt water to soothe throat irritation.
🌞
Avoid cold drinks and ice cream if they trigger cough.

🏋️ 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 or soup.
Include honey and ginger in your diet.
Avoid processed and spicy foods that may irritate the throat.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C.

💼 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.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine and consult a doctor if your cough persists for more than 7 days, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or difficulty breathing. 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. Prolonged use may lead to rebound cough, increased mucus production, or masking of underlying conditions. It should only be used for short-term symptomatic relief. If cough persists beyond 7 days, consult a doctor for evaluation.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Steam inhalation

Helps loosen mucus and soothe airways.

Evidence: Well-established
Honey and warm fluids

Soothes throat and reduces cough.

Evidence: Moderate
Saline nasal drops

Helps clear nasal congestion.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Not established from the available information. Consult your doctor regarding vaccination timing if you are due for any vaccines.

📦 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 a copy of the prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from direct sunlight. If traveling across time zones, adjust dosing times gradually. Check customs regulations for carrying medicines. Keep it in carry-on luggage if possible.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with dry cough due to common cold
She started taking this medicine as prescribed. Within two days, her cough frequency reduced significantly. She experienced mild drowsiness, so she avoided driving. She completed the 5-day course and felt better.
💡 Lesson: This medicine effectively relieves dry cough, but drowsiness can occur; avoid driving until you know how it affects you.
👤 A 50-year-old man with productive cough
He took this medicine for a week without consulting a doctor. His cough worsened because the medicine suppressed his cough reflex, preventing mucus expulsion. He then consulted a doctor who advised stopping this medicine and prescribed a mucolytic only.
💡 Lesson: This medicine is not suitable for productive cough with excessive mucus; always consult a doctor before use.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 30 minutes to an hour after taking it. The cough suppressant effect lasts for about 4-6 hours.

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

A: You should consult a doctor before combining with other cold medicines, as they may contain overlapping ingredients or interact.

Q: Is this medicine safe for children?

A: This medicine is not recommended for children under 12 years without medical advice. 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 siokof p 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, irritating cough. It is not effective for cough with excessive phlegm or chronic cough.
  • Myth: It is safe to take this medicine for weeks.
    Fact: This medicine should not be used for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor.
  • Myth: It is safe for children.
    Fact: This medicine is not recommended for children under 12 years without medical advice.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Bromhexine + Dextromethorphan syrup (generic)

Brand Alternatives

  • Dexbro Syrup

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","active_ingredients":"Bromhexine + Dextromethorphan","primary_use":"Dry cough","sedation":"Mild"},{"medicine":"Bromhexine + Guaifenesin","active_ingredients":"Bromhexine + Guaifenesin","primary_use":"Productive cough","sedation":"None"},{"medicine":"Dextromethorphan + Chlorpheniramine","active_ingredients":"Dextromethorphan + Chlorpheniramine","primary_use":"Allergic cough","sedation":"Moderate"}]

😊 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