Mucolytic (catarrh and phlegm thinner)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Carbocisteine is a mucolytic medicine that works by making thick, sticky mucus (phlegm or catarrh) in your chest and airways thinner and easier to cough out.
Reduces sputum viscosity by breaking disulfide bonds in mucopolysaccharide chains, facilitating mucociliary clearance and expectoration of respiratory secretions. Enhances airway patency by decreasing mucus accumulation in the bronchial tree, improving gas exchange and reducing airflow obstruction.
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 take a double dose to make up for it.
Buy only from reputable pharmacies and avoid buying syrups from roadside vendors or open markets as they may be expired or fake. If your catarrh or cough does not improve after about a week of use, see a doctor rather than continuing to self-medicate. Do not combine with cough suppressants unless your doctor specifically tells you to.
Avoid taking carbocisteine with cough suppressants (medicines that stop you from coughing, like codeine-based cough syrups) because carbocisteine loosens mucus and you need to cough it out. If you are taking any medicines for stomach ulcer, let your doctor or pharmacist know. Alcohol may increase the chance of stomach irritation.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Carbocisteine with your other drugs?
Carbocisteine is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first three months, and breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before using it.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigeria can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep the bottle tightly closed after use. Always keep out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date.
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
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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.