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Bromhexine: uses, side effects & brands
Bromhexine is a mucolytic that thins and clears chest mucus. It belongs to the Cough & mucolytic (extra) group. These loosen mucus or calm a cough.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Cough & mucolytic (extra) |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Chesty cough with thick, sticky mucus
- Bronchitis
- Other chest conditions with sticky phlegm
Common brand names
- India: Bromhexine, Solvin (combo)
- Worldwide: Bisolvon
Common side effects
- Nausea or stomach upset
- Diarrhoea
- Skin rash
Before taking it — precautions
- Tell your doctor if you have a stomach ulcer
- Do not combine with cough suppressants, which can stop mucus being cleared
- Use in pregnancy, breastfeeding and young children only on medical advice
When to see a doctor urgently
- Blistering or peeling rash with fever (urgent)
- Swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing (urgent)
- Coughing up blood, high fever or breathlessness
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of bromhexine depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.
Frequently asked questions
Will it help a dry cough?
No. It thins mucus, so it is meant for chesty coughs with phlegm, not dry tickly coughs.
Does drinking water help?
Yes, drinking enough fluids helps thin mucus and makes coughing it up easier.
How is it related to ambroxol?
Ambroxol is the substance the body makes from bromhexine, so they work in a similar way.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.