Antihistamine / Cough suppressant / Expectorant combination
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
This is a cough syrup that combines three active ingredients: diphenhydramine (an antihistamine that stops coughing and dries up a runny nose), sodium citrate (which helps loosen thick mucus so you can cough it out easily), and menthol (which gives a cooling feeling and soothes your throat). It is commonly sold in Nigeria as Tussylin Cough Syrup Adult.
Blocks H1 histamine receptors to reduce allergic symptoms and sedates the cough centre in the medulla, while sodium citrate increases sputum fluidity to facilitate mucus clearance and menthol provides local anesthetic and counterirritant effects on respiratory mucosa.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.
Is Diphenhydramine 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, simply take it when you remember, but do not double up. Just skip the missed one if it is almost time for your next dose.
This syrup makes you drowsy, so do not drive, ride okada, or operate machines after taking it. Buy only from a registered pharmacy, and avoid roadside sellers or open market medicine vendors as the syrup may have been stored in hot conditions and gone bad. If your cough lasts more than 7 days or you start coughing blood, stop self-medicating and see a doctor.
Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine as it will make the drowsiness much worse and can be dangerous. Avoid taking it with other antihistamines like chlorpheniramine (Piriton) as this doubles the sedating effect. Be careful if you are taking sedatives or sleeping pills, as the combination can make you extremely drowsy.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Diphenhydramine with your other drugs?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this cough syrup, as diphenhydramine can pass to the baby and may not be safe.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep the bottle tightly closed and always store it where children cannot reach it.
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.