vistadex capsule - Bromhexine (4mg) + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (5mg) medicine

Abhikof D Syrup: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Cadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 22, 2026
🤰 Pregnancy Category Not established from the available information. Consult your doctor before use. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate for symptomatic relief of cough.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 22, 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

  • Blood in stool or vomit
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Severe headache with visual changes
  • Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output
  • Confusion or hallucinations

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is vistadex capsule used for?

This medicine is a combination cough syrup containing Bromhexine (a mucolytic) and Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (a cough suppressant). It is used for short-term relief of dry and productive cough. It works by thinning mucus and suppressing the cough reflex. It should not be used for chronic cough or in children under 12 without medical advice.

  • Generic Name: Bromhexine (4mg) + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (5mg)
  • Manufacturer: Cadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 vistadex capsule के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा ब्रोमहेक्सिन और डेक्सट्रोमेथोर्फन का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग सूखी और बलगम वाली खांसी के लक्षणों से राहत के लिए किया जाता है। ब्रोमहेक्सिन बलगम को पतला करता है और डेक्सट्रोमेथोर्फन खांसी की प्रतिक्रिया को दबाता है। यह दवा श्वसन पथ के संक्रमण, एलर्जी या पर्यावरणीय कारकों के कारण होने वाली खांसी में मदद करती है। यह दवा केवल अल्पकालिक उपयोग के लिए है और इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना लंबे समय तक नहीं लेना 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 मुंह सूखना या गले में जलन महसूस हो सकती है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन यदि आपको त्वचा पर चकत्ते, खुजली, चेहरे, होंठ या गले में सूजन, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, या भ्रम हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। अनुशंसित खुराक से अधिक न लें। यदि आपको नींद या चक्कर आते हैं तो वाहन चलाने या मशीनरी चलाने से बचें। इस दवा के साथ शराब का सेवन न करें। यदि आपको लीवर या किडनी की बीमारी, अस्थमा या क्रोनिक ब्रोंकाइटिस है तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? Over 80% of the antiretroviral drugs used globally to combat AIDS are supplied by Indian pharmaceutical companies.

💊 vistadex capsule Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Productive cough with thick mucus","description":"Helps thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to expel, while suppressing excessive cough reflex.","evidence":"Well-established for short-term symptomatic relief"},{"condition":"Dry, irritating cough","description":"Dextromethorphan suppresses the cough reflex, providing relief from non-productive cough.","evidence":"Well-established for short-term use"},{"condition":"Cough associated with common cold or flu","description":"Provides symptomatic relief of cough and chest congestion.","evidence":"Commonly used, evidence supports symptomatic benefit"}]

Off-label uses: []

Primary treatment for: Cough

Also treats: Common cold, Influenza, Allergic rhinitis, Bronchitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Bromhexine (4mg) + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (5mg)
Brand Namevistadex capsule
ManufacturerCadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action Class
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a cool, dry place. Protect from light and moisture. Do not refrigerate. 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 to reduce stomach upset.
2
Stay well hydrated throughout the day to help loosen mucus.
3
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
4
Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
5
Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days.
6
Report any unusual bleeding or bruising 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 thick mucus
This medicine helps thin mucus and suppress cough.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Chest pain
This medicine is not for chest pain; seek medical attention.
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. Food may slightly delay absorption but does not significantly affect overall bioavailability.
DistributionBromhexine distributes widely into body tissues, including lung tissue. Dextromethorphan is widely distributed and crosses the blood-brain barrier to exert central effects.
Protein BindingBromhexine is approximately 95% bound to plasma proteins. Dextromethorphan is about 60-70% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismBromhexine undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver, primarily by CYP3A4, to active metabolites. Dextromethorphan is metabolized in the liver by CYP2D6 to dextrorphan, its active metabolite.
Half-LifeBromhexine: approximately 1-2 hours. Dextromethorphan: approximately 2-4 hours (longer in poor CYP2D6 metabolizers).
ExcretionBromhexine metabolites are excreted mainly in urine. Dextromethorphan and its metabolites are excreted primarily in urine as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates.
BioavailabilityBromhexine: approximately 20-30% due to first-pass metabolism. Dextromethorphan: approximately 10-20% due to first-pass metabolism.
Onset of ActionBromhexine: within 30-60 minutes. Dextromethorphan: within 15-30 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimeBromhexine: 1-2 hours. Dextromethorphan: 2-3 hours.
Duration of ActionBromhexine: 6-8 hours. Dextromethorphan: 4-6 hours.

How It Works

This medicine combines two agents with complementary actions. Bromhexine works 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 acts centrally on the cough center in the medulla oblongata, specifically at sigma-1 receptors, to raise the threshold for cough reflex. It does not cause significant respiratory depression at therapeutic doses.

Mechanism Steps

1
Bromhexine increases serous bronchial secretion: Bromhexine stimulates serous cells in the respiratory tract to produce more fluid, which helps dilute thick mucus.
2
Bromhexine breaks down mucus fibers: It depolymerizes acidic mucopolysaccharide fibers, reducing mucus stickiness and making it easier to cough out.
3
Dextromethorphan acts on brain cough center: Dextromethorphan binds to sigma-1 receptors in the medulla, raising the threshold for cough reflex and reducing the urge to cough.
4
Combined effect: The mucolytic action clears airways while the antitussive action calms excessive coughing, providing symptomatic relief.

💡 How to Take vistadex capsule

Strength: Syrup: Bromhexine 4 mg + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 5 mg per 5 mL.

1Shake the bottle well before each use.
2Use a measuring cup or spoon to measure the exact dose.
3Take the medicine orally with or without food.
4If stomach upset occurs, take with a meal or snack.
5Do not exceed the recommended dose.
6Drink plenty of water to help loosen mucus.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is 5-10 mL (one to two teaspoons) three to four times a day, or as directed by a physician. The dose may vary depending on the severity of symptoms and the patient's response. Do not exceed 40 mL in 24 hours. 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 consider a lower dose. 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.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseAdults: Do not exceed 40 mL in 24 hours. Each 5 mL contains Bromhexine 4 mg and Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 5 mg.

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 vistadex capsule

✅ 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.
Dry mouth (Uncommon (1-5%))
Sip water or chew sugarless gum.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling of face/lips/throat, or difficulty breathing.
Hallucinations or confusion (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop the medicine and consult a doctor immediately.
Respiratory depression (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency care if breathing becomes slow or shallow.
Serotonin syndrome (with other serotonergic drugs) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical help if you have agitation, hallucinations, fast heartbeat, fever, or muscle stiffness.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Blood dyscrasias
Consult doctor if you notice unusual bleeding or bruising.
Hepatotoxicity
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain.

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
Alcohol Moderate
Antihistamines Moderate
Amiodarone Moderate
Antacids 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)
  • Antihistamines (sedating)
  • Amiodarone

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be strictly avoided while taking this medicine because it can enhance the sedative effects of dextromethorphan and increase the risk of drowsiness, dizziness, and 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, dextromethorphan, or any component of the formulation.","Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors or within 14 days of stopping MAO inhibitors.","Children under 12 years of age (unless prescribed by a doctor).","Chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema.","Cough with excessive secretions."]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Do not exceed the recommended dose.","Avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel drowsy.","Do not use for persistent or chronic cough without medical advice.","Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease.","Use with caution in patients with a history of drug abuse or addiction.","Do not use in children under 12 years without medical advice.","Consult a doctor if cough persists for more than 7 days or is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

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

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, hallucinations, confusion, and respiratory depression. 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

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel drowsy or dizzy after taking this medicine. Do not consume alcohol while on this medicine as it can increase drowsiness and impair judgment. Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, asthma, or chronic bronchitis. Do not use this medicine for a persistent or worsening cough without medical evaluation. Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not use after the expiry date.

👴 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 consider a lower dose. Regular monitoring for adverse effects is advised.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

Not established from the available information. Consult your doctor before planning pregnancy or if you are pregnant.

🏥 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

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce respiratory strain.
🥗
Regular low-impact exercise like walking or swimming.
😴
Practice good posture to support lung function.
💧
Include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet.
🧘
Get adequate sleep to support immune health.
🌞
Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise if you feel drowsy or dizzy after taking this medicine. Light activities are generally safe, but listen to your body and rest if needed.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 rich foods
Reduce processed food intake
Stay well hydrated
Consume warm fluids like soups and herbal teas

💼 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 inform your employer if your job involves operating heavy machinery.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor if your cough persists for more than 7 days, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache. 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 of dextromethorphan can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. Bromhexine long-term use may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function may be required if used for extended periods under medical supervision.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Steam inhalation

Helps loosen mucus and soothe airways.

Evidence: Commonly used, supportive care
Saltwater gargle

Soothes throat irritation and reduces cough.

Evidence: Traditionally used, may provide symptomatic relief
Honey

Soothes cough and throat irritation.

Evidence: Some evidence for cough relief in adults and children over 1 year

💉 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 light and moisture. If traveling across time zones, continue with your regular dosing schedule as advised by your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying medicines in your destination country.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old office worker with a persistent dry cough
Started this medicine as prescribed for a dry cough that had been bothering him for a week. Within two days, the cough frequency reduced significantly. He was advised to take it with food to prevent stomach upset and to avoid driving due to drowsiness.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine with food and avoiding driving while on it improves tolerability and safety.
👤 A 50-year-old woman with productive cough due to cold
Used this medicine for five days as directed. Her chest congestion improved as the mucus became thinner and easier to cough out. She was reminded not to exceed the recommended dose and to consult a doctor if symptoms persisted.
💡 Lesson: Short-term use as prescribed provides symptomatic relief; prolonged use without medical advice is not recommended.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 30-60 minutes after oral administration. You may notice relief from cough and easier mucus clearance within a few hours.

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

A: Do not take this medicine with other cough suppressants or mucolytics without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to overdose or increased side effects.

Q: Is this medicine safe for long-term use?

A: This medicine is intended for short-term symptomatic relief only. Prolonged use should be avoided unless advised by a doctor.

🤔 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 vistadex capsule

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 symptomatic relief of dry and productive cough. It does not treat the underlying cause.
  • Myth: It is safe to take this medicine for a long time.
    Fact: This medicine is for short-term use only. Prolonged use without medical supervision can be harmful.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for children of all ages.
    Fact: This medicine is not recommended for children under 12 years without medical advice.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Bromhexine + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide syrup (various manufacturers)

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Bromhexine 4 mg + Dextromethorphan 5 mg per 5 mL","primary_use":"Dry and productive cough","notes":"Combination of mucolytic and antitussive."},{"medicine":"Bromhexine + Guaifenesin","composition":"Bromhexine + Guaifenesin","primary_use":"Productive cough","notes":"Expectorant added for better mucus clearance."},{"medicine":"Dextromethorphan + Chlorpheniramine","composition":"Dextromethorphan + Chlorpheniramine","primary_use":"Dry cough with allergy","notes":"Antihistamine added for allergic symptoms."}]

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