Respretol Syrup Syrup (Terbutaline; Ambroxol Hydrochloride; Guaifenesin; Menthol) — Uses, Dosage & NAFDAC

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

This is a combination cough and chest medicine that works in four ways: Terbutaline opens up the airways to ease breathing, Ambroxol and Guaifenesin help loosen and thin out thick mucus (catarrh) so you can cough it out easily, and Menthol gives a cooling, soothing feeling in the throat and chest.

What is it used for?

Cough with catarrhchest congestiondifficulty breathing due to mucusbronchitisasthma-related coughcold and flu with chest tightness

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Cough & Cold Asthma & Breathing

How it works

Activates beta-2 adrenergic receptors on bronchial smooth muscle causing bronchodilation, while ambroxol enhances mucociliary clearance by stimulating serous gland secretion and reducing mucus viscosity; guaifenesin further liquefies secretions to facilitate expectoration, and menthol provides local anesthetic and cooling effects on respiratory mucosa.

Available Over The Counter

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

Quick Interaction Check

Is Terbutaline; safe to take with another drug?

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How to take this drug

For adults, take 2 to 3 teaspoons (10-15 ml) of the syrup 2 to 3 times a day. You can take it with or without food. Shake the bottle well before use. A brand you may find in Nigeria is Respretol Syrup.

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 as normal. Do not double up to make up for the missed dose.

What to watch out for

Always buy from a reputable pharmacy — avoid roadside sellers or open market medicines, as fake cough syrups are common in Nigeria. Do not use this syrup beyond the expiry date or if the colour or smell has changed. If your cough does not improve after 5-7 days or gets worse, see a doctor — it could be something more serious like tuberculosis or pneumonia.

Common Side Effects

Slight shakiness or trembling of the hands
feeling your heart beating fast
headache
feeling restless or a bit jittery
mild stomach upset or nausea

Serious Side Effects

Severe chest pain or very fast heartbeat that does not settle — go to the hospital immediately. Difficulty breathing that gets worse instead of better — seek urgent medical help. Severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face
lips
or tongue.

Drug Interactions

Avoid taking this with other medicines that contain salbutamol or similar airway-opening drugs, as it can increase heart racing and shakiness. Do not use with beta-blocker medicines (like atenolol or propranolol used for high blood pressure) as they can cancel each other out. Avoid alcohol as it can worsen drowsiness and stomach upset.

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Is it safe to take Terbutaline; with your other drugs?

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically tells you to use it — consult your doctor first.

Who Should NOT Take This

People allergic to any of the ingredients (terbutaline
ambroxol
guaifenesin
or menthol)
people with serious heart problems or very fast heartbeat
people with overactive thyroid
and children under 2 years old without a doctor's advice.

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 in your car or near a window. Keep the bottle tightly closed and always store out of the reach of children.

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

Respretol Syrup