Actirex Syrup: Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Safety
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 swelling of face, lips, or throat
- Severe drowsiness or unresponsiveness
- Seizures or convulsions
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Inability to urinate
- Severe abdominal pain or vomiting
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Confusion or hallucinations
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is sputes syrup used for?
This medicine is a combination syrup containing Chlorpheniramine Maleate (an antihistamine) and Ammonium Chloride (an expectorant). It is used to relieve cough, nasal congestion, and allergic symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose. It works by blocking histamine and thinning mucus. It may cause drowsiness, so avoid driving. Do not use without medical advice in children under 2 years, during pregnancy, or if you have glaucoma, urinary retention, or severe heart disease.
- Generic Name: Chlorpheniramine Maleate (2.5mg) + Ammonium Chloride (125mg)
- Manufacturer: Agron Remedies Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 sputes syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा क्लोरफेनिरामाइन मेलिएट और अमोनियम क्लोराइड का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग खांसी, नाक बंद होना, छींक आना, नाक बहना और एलर्जी के लक्षणों से राहत दिलाने के लिए किया जाता है। यह एलर्जी के कारण होने वाली खांसी और जुकाम में प्रभावी है। यह दवा नींद ला सकती है, इसलिए वाहन चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। बच्चों में इसका उपयोग डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना न करें। गर्भवती महिलाएं और स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से परामर्श करें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, मुंह सूखना, धुंधली दृष्टि, जी मिचलाना, पेट खराब होना और सिरदर्द शामिल हैं। कभी-कभी कब्ज, पेशाब रुकना, धड़कन तेज होना और पसीना आना भी हो सकता है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन एलर्जी, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, चेहरे या गले में सूजन हो सकती है। अगर कोई भी दुष्प्रभाव गंभीर या लगातार बना रहे, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। निर्धारित मात्रा से अधिक न लें। इस दवा को लेने के बाद नींद आ सकती है, इसलिए वाहन चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। शराब और अन्य नींद लाने वाली दवाओं के साथ इसका सेवन न करें। यदि आपको ग्लूकोमा, पेशाब रुकने की समस्या, अस्थमा, हृदय रोग, उच्च रक्तचाप, थायरॉइड, गुर्दे या यकृत की बीमारी है, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें। गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के दौरान डॉक्टर से सलाह लें।
💊 sputes syrup Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Relieves sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and nasal itching associated with seasonal or perennial allergies.","evidence":"Well-established for chlorpheniramine component"},{"condition":"Common cold with cough","description":"Provides symptomatic relief of cough, nasal congestion, and postnasal drip; ammonium chloride helps loosen mucus.","evidence":"Commonly used, supportive evidence"},{"condition":"Urticaria","description":"Reduces itching and hives due to allergic skin reactions.","evidence":"Well-established for chlorpheniramine component"},{"condition":"Productive cough","description":"Ammonium chloride acts as an expectorant to thin bronchial secretions and facilitate coughing out mucus.","evidence":"Traditional use, limited clinical trials"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Insomnia","description":"Sometimes used off-label for short-term sleep aid due to sedative effects of chlorpheniramine.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Motion sickness","description":"Occasionally used off-label for prevention of motion sickness due to anticholinergic effects.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Allergic rhinitis and common cold with cough
Also treats: Urticaria, Productive cough, Postnasal drip
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Chlorpheniramine Maleate (2.5mg) + Ammonium Chloride (125mg) |
| Brand Name | sputes syrup |
| Manufacturer | Agron Remedies 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. Do not refrigerate. Keep the bottle tightly closed. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture, or as printed 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
Chlorpheniramine Maleate competitively blocks histamine H1 receptors on effector cells, reducing allergic symptoms such as sneezing, rhinorrhea, and itching. It also has anticholinergic properties that contribute to dry mouth, urinary retention, and drowsiness. Ammonium Chloride is an expectorant that irritates the gastric mucosa, reflexively increasing respiratory tract fluid secretion, which thins mucus and makes cough more productive. It also acts as a mild systemic acidifier, which may help in certain toxicities but is not the primary intended effect in this combination.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take sputes syrup
Strength: Each 5 mL of syrup contains Chlorpheniramine Maleate 2.5 mg and Ammonium Chloride 125 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, and response to therapy. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Use the measuring cup or spoon provided with the product. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing based on age and weight. Do not use in children under 2 years of age without medical advice. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients are more sensitive to the sedative and anticholinergic effects of chlorpheniramine. Use with caution, starting at the lower end of the dose range. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal and hepatic function. |
| Renal Impairment | Use with caution in renal impairment. Ammonium chloride may cause metabolic acidosis and electrolyte disturbances. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a clinician. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Use with caution in hepatic impairment. Chlorpheniramine is metabolized in the liver; ammonium chloride may worsen hepatic encephalopathy. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a clinician. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose for adults is 60 mL (12 teaspoons) in 24 hours, not to exceed 6 doses. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of sputes 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 | |
| CNS depressants | Major | |
| Anticholinergics | Major | |
| CYP2D6 inhibitors | Moderate | |
| CYP3A4 inhibitors | Moderate | |
| Antihypertensives | Moderate | |
| Corticosteroids | Minor | |
| Diuretics | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Central nervous system depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, barbiturates)
- Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine, tricyclic antidepressants, antiparkinson agents)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine)
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin)
- Antihypertensives
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol increases the sedative and central nervous system depressant effects of chlorpheniramine, leading to excessive drowsiness, impaired coordination, and risk of respiratory depression. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Hypersensitivity to chlorpheniramine, ammonium chloride, or any component of the formulation","Severe hypertension or severe coronary artery disease","Narrow-angle glaucoma","Urinary retention or prostatic hypertrophy","Severe hepatic or renal impairment","Metabolic acidosis","MAOI therapy within 14 days","Children under 2 years of age (due to risk of severe respiratory depression)"]
⚠️ 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 due to increased risk of confusion, sedation, and anticholinergic effects.","Use with caution in patients with asthma, COPD, or sleep apnea.","Do not use for chronic cough without medical evaluation.","May cause paradoxical excitation in children.","Prolonged use may lead to tolerance or rebound congestion.","Consult clinician before use in pregnancy or breastfeeding.","Do not exceed recommended dose; overdose can cause serious toxicity.","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. Use with caution; consult your clinician before breastfeeding.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose may cause severe drowsiness, confusion, seizures, respiratory depression, metabolic acidosis, and cardiac arrhythmias. Seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, including gastric lavage if within 1-2 hours, activated charcoal, intravenous fluids, and monitoring of vital signs and electrolytes. There is no specific antidote. Hemodialysis may be considered in severe cases.
⏰ 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 clinician. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as it may cause drowsiness. Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants while taking this medicine. Inform your clinician if you have glaucoma, enlarged prostate, urinary retention, asthma, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid problems, kidney or liver disease, or diabetes. Do not use this medicine for persistent or chronic cough unless advised by a clinician. Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not use if the seal is broken or the syrup is discolored. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, consult your clinician before use. 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, urinary retention, and constipation. Use with caution and at lower doses. Monitor renal and hepatic function.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Chlorpheniramine is generally considered safe in pregnancy but should be used only if clearly needed. Ammonium chloride should be used with caution. Discuss risks and benefits with your clinician.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Consult your doctor before using this medicine after surgery, as it may interact with anesthetics and other medications. It may also increase the risk of urinary retention post-operatively.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it may cause dry mouth and interact with medications used during dental procedures. It may also increase the risk of bleeding if combined with certain drugs.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
This medicine may cause drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities requiring alertness until you know how it affects you. If you exercise, ensure you are well hydrated.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine can cause drowsiness, which may affect your ability to drive, operate machinery, or perform tasks requiring mental alertness. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. It may also cause dry mouth and dizziness, which can impact your comfort at work.
🛑 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 may lead to tolerance, rebound congestion, and increased risk of side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and urinary retention. Prolonged use of ammonium chloride can cause metabolic acidosis and electrolyte imbalances. Regular monitoring of renal function, electrolytes, and blood pH may be required if used for extended periods. Consult your doctor for periodic review.
🌿 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 ease breathing.
Evidence: Traditional useAlternative for allergic rhinitis with fewer systemic side effects.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are acutely ill with fever, consult your doctor before vaccination.
📦 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 your prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from light and moisture. If traveling across time zones, continue your regular dosing schedule as advised by your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying medicines. Do not leave it in a hot car or checked luggage.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: Antihistaminic effects begin within 30 to 60 minutes after taking this medicine.
A: Consult your doctor before combining with other cold medicines to avoid duplicate ingredients and interactions.
A: It should not be used in children under 2 years without medical advice. For older children, consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing.
A: 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.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for sputes syrup
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
actirex syrupBio Sars Pharma Pvt Ltd ₹15.00 23.9% COSTLIER
-
tri cough syrupMaitri Healthcare Pvt Ltd ₹20.63 70.4% COSTLIER
-
oricof syrupOrison Pharma International ₹23.44 93.6% COSTLIER
-
redikuf expectorantReddy Pharmaceuticals ₹24.30 100.7% COSTLIER
-
histacron syrupAcron Pharmaceuticals ₹25.31 109% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Actirex syrup is an antibiotic.
Fact: This medicine is not an antibiotic. It is a combination of an antihistamine and an expectorant used for symptomatic relief of cough and allergy. - Myth: It is safe to take Actirex syrup for any type of cough.
Fact: This medicine is not suitable for all coughs. It should be used only for cough associated with allergy or common cold, and not for chronic cough or cough due to serious conditions without medical evaluation. - Myth: Actirex syrup can be given to infants without a doctor's advice.
Fact: This medicine should not be used in children under 2 years of age without medical advice due to risk of serious side effects.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Ammonium Chloride syrup (various manufacturers)
Brand Alternatives
- Actirex syrup