Top 10 Bromhexine Medicines for Cough and Respiratory Relief

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Age Group

Infant (under 6 months)

Child (6 months - 12 years)

Teenager (13-18 years)

Adult (18+ years)

Primary Symptom

Dry, hacking cough

Wet cough with mucus

Both dry and wet cough

Swallowing Ability

Easily swallows pills

Needs liquid form

Prefers lozenges

Additional Conditions

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Bronchitis

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When it comes to clearing stubborn mucus, Bromhexine is a mucolytic agent that helps break down thick secretions in the respiratory tract. In the UK and many other markets it’s the go‑to ingredient for over‑the‑counter cough syrups and tablets that ease breathing during colds, bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Below is a practical guide to the ten most widely used bromhexine‑containing medicines, what makes each one tick, and how to pick the right product for your symptoms.

Why Bromhexine Remains a Popular Expectoration Aid

Bromhexine works by disrupting the structure of mucopolysaccharide fibers, turning thick, glue‑like mucus into a softer, more fluid material that cilia can move out of the airways. Its action is gentle enough for children over six and adults alike, which is why many pharmacies stock it as a standalone product or in combination with simple analgesics and antihistamines.

Key pharmacological facts:

• Onset of action: 15‑30 minutes after oral intake.
• Peak plasma concentration: 1‑2 hours.
• Half‑life: Approximately 12 hours, allowing twice‑daily dosing.
• Metabolism: Primarily hepatic via CYP3A4, with negligible renal excretion.

These attributes give bromhexine a predictable safety profile, minimal drug‑drug interactions, and suitability for most patients who can’t tolerate more aggressive expectorants.

How We Ranked the Top 10

Our shortlist combines three objective criteria:

1. Clinical efficacy - backed by published studies or robust post‑marketing data.
2. Availability in the UK market - OTC vs prescription status, and whether the product is stocked nationwide.
3. User experience - reviews from NHS patient forums, pharmacy feedback, and side‑effect frequency.

Each medicine is rated on a 5‑star scale for effectiveness, ease of use, and overall value.

1. Bisolvon 8 mg Tablets

Bisolvon is the flagship bromhexine brand in the UK, offered in 8 mg tablets and a 5 % syrup for children. The tablet form is convenient for adults with persistent coughs, while the syrup has a honey‑like flavor that encourages compliance.

• Dosage: 1‑2 tablets every 8 hours (adults); 5 ml syrup every 6 hours (children 6‑12 y).
• Rating: 4.6/5 - praised for rapid mucus clearance.
• Price: £3.99 for a pack of 20 tablets.

Side‑effects are rare, usually limited to mild gastrointestinal upset.

2. Mucosolvan 8 mg Tablets

Mucosolvan contains the same 8 mg bromhexine hydrochloride dose but is marketed under a different manufacturer, often found in larger bulk packs.

• Dosage: 1 tablet twice daily.
• Rating: 4.4/5 - users like the affordable bulk pricing.
• Price: £2.79 for 30 tablets.

Its tablet coating is slightly slower‑releasing, making it a good choice for night‑time use.

3. Bromhexine Syrup 5 % (Liquid)

This generic liquid formulation is sold by several UK pharmacy chains under their own label. It contains 5 % w/v bromhexine hydrochloride, providing an easy dose for children and adults who dislike tablets.

• Dosage: 5 ml (adults) or 2.5 ml (children) three times daily.
• Rating: 4.2/5 - praised for palatability.
• Price: £4.20 for a 150 ml bottle.

The syrup can be mixed with fruit juice to mask the taste further.

4. Bronchicort 8 mg Capsules

Bronchicort combines bromhexine with a low dose of cortisone, targeting patients with inflamed airways as well as thick mucus.

• Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily.
• Rating: 4.5/5 - appreciated by COPD sufferers.
• Price: £6.50 for 20 capsules.

Because of the steroid component, a short‑term prescription is required.

5. Coughill Bromhexine Forte

This over‑the‑counter product pairs 8 mg bromhexine with 30 mg dextromethorphan, offering both expectoration and cough suppression.

• Dosage: 1 tablet every 6 hours.
• Rating: 4.3/5 - useful for dry, hacking coughs that also produce mucus.
• Price: £5.10 for 12 tablets.

Patients with liver disease should consult a clinician before using dextromethorphan.

6. Bronchomed Liquid

A 4 % bromhexine solution marketed for infants over six months. The formulation includes a mild sweetener and vitamin C to support immune health.

• Dosage: 2.5 ml (infants) or 5 ml (toddlers) three times daily.
• Rating: 4.0/5 - parents like the added vitamin C.
• Price: £3.80 for 100 ml.

Its low concentration makes it safe for very young children.

7. Bronchocure 8 mg Effervescent Tablets

Effervescent tablets dissolve quickly in water, delivering bromhexine in a carbonated solution that can be soothing for sore throats.

• Dosage: 1 tablet dissolved in a glass of water twice daily.
• Rating: 4.1/5 - appreciated for fast relief.
• Price: £4.90 for 10 tablets.

The fizzy texture also encourages better adherence in patients who dislike swallowing pills.

8. RespiraBrom 8 mg Chewable Tablets

Designed for teenagers and adults with difficulty swallowing, these chewable tablets combine bromhexine with a mild menthol flavor.

• Dosage: 1 tablet after meals, up to 3 times daily.
• Rating: 4.4/5 - praised for taste and convenience.
• Price: £5.30 for 15 tablets.

The menthol adds a mild decongestant feel, though it’s not a true decongestant.

9. Turboclean Bromhexine 10 mg Softgels

Higher‑strength softgels are aimed at patients with chronic bronchitis who need a stronger dose. The oil‑based capsule improves absorption.

• Dosage: 1 softgel twice daily.
• Rating: 4.2/5 - efficacy noted in long‑term users.
• Price: £7.40 for 30 softgels.

Because of the 10 mg dose, a prescription is usually required in the UK.

10. ClearAir Bromhexine‑Infused Lozenges

These lozenges release a small amount of bromhexine as they dissolve, making them ideal for people who need relief while on the go.

• Dosage: 1 lozenge every 4 hours, max 6 per day.
• Rating: 4.0/5 - convenient for travel.
• Price: £6.00 for a tin of 20 lozenges.

They also contain a tiny amount of eucalyptus oil to freshen breath.

Comparison Table: Key Attributes at a Glance

How to Choose the Right Product for Your Situation

Think about three practical factors before you head to the pharmacy:

1. Age and swallowing ability - liquids, syrups, and lozenges work best for kids or seniors.
2. Need for additional relief - if you also have a dry hacking cough, a combo like Coughill may be smarter.
3. Prescription status - chronic conditions often require a doctor’s script (e.g., Bronchicort, Turboclean).

When in doubt, ask the pharmacist to compare the OTC options on the table. They can also flag potential drug‑drug interactions, especially if you’re on antibiotics or ACE inhibitors.

Safety Tips and Common Side‑Effects

Bromhexine is generally safe, but a few cautions are worth noting:

• Take with a full glass of water - helps the drug reach the mucus lining faster.
• Avoid excessive alcohol - it can increase the risk of gastrointestinal irritation.
• Watch for rare allergic reactions: rash, itching, or swelling of the face.

If you experience persistent nausea or a sudden increase in cough intensity, stop the product and seek medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Armed with this rundown, you can shop confidently, ask your pharmacist the right questions, and choose a bromhexine product that truly clears the airway. Remember, the best medicine is the one you can stick to without side‑effects.