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Benylin Chesty Coughs Original is a cough syrup containing diphenhydramine hydrochloride and menthol for the relief of cough and associated congestive symptoms. It is the Original formula, which may cause drowsiness. For adults and children aged 12 years and over, sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK).
This is a pharmacy (P) medicine sold under the supervision of our GPhC-registered pharmacist. You may be asked a few short questions before your order is supplied.
Key facts
| Active ingredients | Diphenhydramine hydrochloride 14mg and levomenthol 2mg per 5ml |
|---|---|
| Format | Oral syrup, 150ml bottle |
| Relieves | Cough and associated congestive symptoms |
| Age | Adults and children aged 12 years and over |
| Dose | One 10ml dose four times a day; maximum 40ml in 24 hours |
| Drowsiness | May cause drowsiness – this is the Original (not Non-Drowsy) formula |
| Legal category | Pharmacy (P) medicine |
Who it is for
- Adults and children aged 12 and over with a chesty cough and associated congestion
- People who do not mind a formula that may cause drowsiness, for example for night-time cough
Not suitable for: Children under 12 years; anyone allergic to diphenhydramine, menthol or any of the other ingredients; anyone taking, or who has taken in the last 14 days, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressant. Ask a pharmacist or doctor first if you have angle-closure glaucoma, an enlarged prostate or difficulty passing urine, a chronic or persistent cough (such as with chronic bronchitis, emphysema or asthma), or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not take with any other product containing diphenhydramine.
How to use
- Read the label and Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) before use.
- Adults and children aged 12 years and over: take one 10ml dose four times a day.
- Do not take more than 40ml (four doses) in 24 hours.
- Do not give to children under 12 years.
- If symptoms persist or get worse, speak to a pharmacist or doctor.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Benylin Chesty Coughs Original and Non-Drowsy?
They contain different active ingredients. The Original contains diphenhydramine (an antihistamine that may cause drowsiness) with menthol. The Non-Drowsy version contains guaifenesin, an expectorant, with levomenthol. Check the pack to make sure you have the one you want.
Will it make me sleepy?
It may. Diphenhydramine can cause drowsiness. If you are affected, do not drive or use tools or machines, and do not drink alcohol while taking it.
How much can I take in a day?
One 10ml dose up to four times a day. Do not exceed 40ml in 24 hours.
Can children take it?
Only children aged 12 years and over, at the adult dose. It is not for children under 12.
Can I take it if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
It should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless a doctor considers it essential. Ask a pharmacist or doctor before use.
How long can I keep the bottle once opened?
Use within 4 months of first opening. Store below 25°C.
Safety and storage
- May cause drowsiness. If affected, do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcohol.
- Do not take with other medicines containing diphenhydramine, including some sleep aids and cold remedies.
- Contains sucrose and liquid glucose and a small amount of ethanol – ask a pharmacist if you have diabetes or an intolerance to some sugars.
- Store below 25°C. Discard 4 months after first opening.
- Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
- Read the PIL. Report suspected side effects through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.
This is a medicine. Always read the label and the Patient Information Leaflet before use. If symptoms persist, speak to a pharmacist or doctor.
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