Cough and Cold Combination (Antitussive, Decongestant, Antihistamine)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination medicine containing three active ingredients: dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant that calms your cough reflex), phenylephrine (a decongestant that unblocks your stuffy nose), and chlorpheniramine (an antihistamine that stops sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes). It is commonly sold in Nigeria as Emzolyn 4 Way Syrup.
Inhibits the cough reflex by acting on the cough centre in the medulla oblongata; stimulates α-adrenergic receptors causing vasoconstriction of nasal blood vessels to relieve congestion; blocks H1 histamine receptors to reduce allergic symptoms including rhinorrhoea, sneezing, and lacrimation.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.
Is Dextromethorphan safe to take with another drug?
Check with multiple drugs →Explore this drug
Since this medicine is taken only when you have symptoms, there is no strict schedule. If you forget a dose, just take it when you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never double up to make up for a missed dose.
This medicine can make you very drowsy, so do not drive, ride okada, or operate machines after taking it. Buy only from a registered pharmacy and check the expiry date, especially since some roadside sellers stock expired products. Do not combine with other cough or cold medicines without checking with your pharmacist, as many contain the same ingredients and you could overdose.
Do not take this with alcohol, as it will make the drowsiness much worse and can be dangerous. Avoid using it together with other cough and cold medicines as you may accidentally double up on the same ingredients. If you are taking medicines for depression (such as MAO inhibitors or SSRIs), do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor first.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Dextromethorphan with your other drugs?
This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before using it if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it on window sills or inside hot cars. Keep the bottle tightly closed. 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
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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.