Combination cough medicine (mucolytic, antitussive, expectorant, and soothing agent)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination cough medicine that works in four ways: Bromhexine thins and loosens thick mucus (phlegm) in your chest, Dextromethorphan calms your cough reflex so you cough less, Ammonium chloride helps bring up phlegm from your airways, and Menthol gives a cooling feeling that soothes your throat and helps you breathe easier.
Reduces mucus viscosity through proteolytic degradation of glycoproteins (bromhexine), suppresses cough reflex by antagonizing sigma-1 receptors and inhibiting monoamine reuptake in the cough center (dextromethorphan), promotes secretion mobilization via vagal stimulation (ammonium chloride), and provides local anesthetic and antimicrobial effects on the respiratory mucosa (menthol).
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed one and continue as normal. Don't double up to make up for a missed dose.
Buy only from licensed pharmacies and avoid buying cough syrups from roadside sellers or buses, as fake cough medicines are common in Nigeria and can be dangerous. Do not use this syrup for more than 7 days without seeing a doctor, as a cough that won't go away could be a sign of something more serious like tuberculosis (TB). Do not mix with other cough or cold medicines to avoid accidental overdose.
Do not take this with other cough medicines, especially those that also contain Dextromethorphan, as you could overdose. Avoid alcohol while using this syrup because it can make the drowsiness much worse. If you are taking any medicine for depression (like amitriptyline or fluoxetine), talk to your doctor or pharmacist first as there can be a dangerous interaction.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Bromhexine with your other drugs?
Do not use this medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding without first consulting your doctor, as some of the ingredients may not be safe for your baby.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat, as Nigerian weather can be very hot, so don't leave it in your car or near a window. Keep the bottle tightly closed after use and always keep it out of the reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.