Composition

Each 5 mL typically contains:

• Ammonium chloride 100 mg – expectorant
• Sodium citrate 50 mg – mucolytic/expectorant aid
• Levomenthol 7.75 mg – throat soothing agent
• Squill tincture 1 mcL (microlitre) – expectorant (increases mucus clearance)

Uses / Indications

Used for:

• Productive (chesty) cough
• Thick mucus or phlegm in the chest
• Cough associated with colds or bronchitis
• Helps loosen and clear mucus from airways

Unlike dry-cough syrups, this medicine is meant to bring out phlegm, not suppress cough.

Direction for Use

• Taken by mouth (oral syrup)
• Usually 2–3 times daily (dose depends on age and prescription)
• Shake well before use
• Use measuring spoon/cup for accuracy
• Take after food if it causes stomach discomfort
• Drink plenty of water to help loosen mucus

Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Mild nausea or stomach irritation
• Drowsiness (mild)
• Dizziness
• Mild throat irritation

Less common:

• Vomiting
• Allergic skin reactions (rash, itching)

Rare:

• Excessive salivation or stomach upset (from squill)
• Electrolyte imbalance if overused

Warnings

• Do NOT use for dry cough without mucus
• Caution in patients with:
  • Kidney disease (ammonium salts)
  • Severe stomach ulcers
• Avoid overdosing (can irritate stomach and cause toxicity)
• Use cautiously in children (dose must be adjusted carefully)

Interactions

May interact with:

• Other cough/cold medicines (risk of duplication of ingredients)
• Alcohol (may increase drowsiness or irritation)
• Antihistamines (may reduce mucus clearance)
• Certain diuretics or electrolyte-altering drugs (rare relevance)

Cautions / Precautions

• Drink plenty of fluids to improve mucus clearance
• Stop and seek medical advice if:
  • Cough lasts more than 1–2 weeks
  • High fever or chest pain develops
  • Breathlessness occurs
• Avoid combining with cough suppressants unless prescribed (can trap mucus)
• Use only recommended dose to avoid stomach irritation