Vadilyn Syrup Syrup (Sodium Citrate, Diphenhydramine HCl, Menthol, Ammonium Chloride) — Uses, Dosage & NAFDAC

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

This is a combination cough and cold syrup (known in Nigeria as Vadilyn Syrup) that works in several ways — it loosens mucus so you can cough it out more easily, calms allergic reactions like sneezing and runny nose, and gives a soothing cool feeling in your throat.

What is it used for?

Cough with catarrhdry coughchest congestionrunny nosesneezingcold and flu symptomssore throat irritation

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Cold & Flu Remedies Cough & Cold Allergies

How it works

Blocks H1 histamine receptors to reduce allergic symptoms and promote sedation, while ammonium chloride acts as an expectorant to thin respiratory secretions; menthol provides topical anesthetic and counter-irritant effects on mucous membranes; sodium citrate buffers gastric pH and soothes throat irritation.

Available Over The Counter

Get this from any pharmacy or chemist — no prescription needed.

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How to take this drug

Adults should take 2 to 4 teaspoonfuls (10–20 ml) every 6 to 8 hours, or as directed on the bottle. You can take it with or without food. Shake the bottle well before each use. Do not take more than the recommended dose in 24 hours.

What if I Miss a Dose?

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 normally. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.

What to watch out for

This syrup can make you very drowsy, so do not drive or operate machines like generators after taking it. Always buy from a licensed pharmacy — avoid buying cough syrups from roadside sellers or open markets as fake drugs are common in Nigeria. If your cough lasts more than 7 days or you start coughing blood, stop the syrup and see a doctor immediately.

Common Side Effects

Feeling sleepy or drowsy
mild dizziness
dry mouth
slight stomach upset
blurred vision

Serious Side Effects

Difficulty breathing or swelling of the face and throat (this could be a serious allergic reaction — go to the hospital immediately)
fast or irregular heartbeat
severe confusion or hallucinations.

Drug Interactions

Avoid drinking alcohol while using this syrup as it can make drowsiness much worse and be dangerous. Be careful if you are taking other antihistamines, sleeping pills, or sedatives as the combined effect can make you extremely drowsy. Also inform your pharmacist if you are taking any blood pressure medication.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Do not use this syrup during pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically tells you it is safe, as some of the ingredients can affect the baby.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to any of the ingredients (sodium citrate
diphenhydramine
menthol
or ammonium chloride)
people with severe liver or kidney problems
people with glaucoma (eye pressure problem)
men with enlarged prostate causing difficulty urinating
children under 2 years
and people who are already taking other medicines that cause drowsiness.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it near windows or inside a hot car. Keep the bottle tightly closed and always store it where children cannot reach or see it.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Vadilyn Syrup