Cough and cold combination (expectorant and antihistamine)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination cough mixture that works in several ways — ephedrine opens up your airways, diphenhydramine stops the allergic reaction causing your cough, ammonium chloride helps loosen thick phlegm so you can cough it out, sodium citrate thins the mucus, and menthol gives a cooling, soothing feeling in your throat.
Activates α-adrenergic receptors causing nasal vasoconstriction to relieve congestion, while diphenhydramine blocks H1 histamine receptors to reduce allergic symptoms and rhinorrhea; ammonium chloride acts as an expectorant to thin bronchial secretions, sodium citrate provides alkaline support, and menthol provides topical cooling and mild antimicrobial effects on respiratory mucosa.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist — no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
Adults should take 2 to 4 teaspoonfuls (10-20ml) three to four times a day. You can take it with or without food. Shake the bottle well before each use. It is usually sold as Kofmed Expectorant syrup in Nigeria.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not take a double dose to make up for it.
This medicine can make you very drowsy, so do not drive or operate machines after taking it. Buy only from licensed pharmacies — avoid roadside sellers or open market products as they may be fake or expired. Do not use for more than 7 days without seeing a doctor, as a persistent cough may need proper medical investigation.
Do not take with alcohol as it will make you very drowsy and dizzy. Avoid using alongside other cough or cold medicines that contain similar ingredients to prevent overdose. If you are taking blood pressure drugs (like atenolol or amlodipine), talk to your doctor first because ephedrine can raise your blood pressure.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Ephedrine; with your other drugs?
This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding — consult your doctor before using it.
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 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.