Best Cough Syrup : Sooth your cough with these Top 15 Syrups [December, 2023]

Coughing is one of the most common health issues that people face. It can range from mild irritation to severe bouts that disrupt daily life. While coughs are usually temporary, finding the right medication to relieve symptoms quickly can provide much-needed relief. This buying guide covers the 15 best cough syrup available in India to help you make an informed purchase. We’ve researched and compared the best cough syrup based on effectiveness, ingredients, dosage, suitability and buyer reviews.

How to Choose the Best Cough Syrup

With so many options on the market, choosing the ideal cough syrup for your needs requires some consideration. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:

• Type of Cough: Determine whether you have a wet/chesty cough that produces mucus or a dry, non-productive cough. Some syrups are formulated specifically for one or the other.
• Syrup vs Lozenge: Syrups tend to coat the throat and last longer. Lozenges can provide quick relief for mild coughs. Choose the format better suited to your cough type and severity.
• Key Ingredients: Look for syrups with recognised therapeutic ingredients like honey, tulsi, mulethi, ginger that can soothe coughs and reduce throat irritation.
• For Kids or Adults: Syrups for children are usually sugar-free with pleasant flavours. Adult syrups may contain camphor, menthol and local anaesthetics for numbing action.
• Ayurvedic or Allopathic: Ayurvedic syrups provide natural relief while allopathic ones treat cough symptoms directly. Choose as per your preference and cough intensity.
• Dosage: Check the dosage directions for your age group and adhere strictly for best results. Don’t increase dosage amount or frequency.
• User Reviews: Read ratings and reviews of a product to check its safety, efficacy and side-effects. Popular options are likely to be effective.

Types of Cough Syrups

Cough syrups can be broadly categorised based on their formulation and use:

Expectorant Syrups

• Thins mucus and loosens phlegm to aid productive coughs
• Key ingredients: Guaifenesin, ammonium chloride, Tulsi

Antitussive Syrups

• Suppresses the cough reflex to control coughing fits
• Key ingredients: Dextromethorphan, codeine, camphor

Cough Suppressant + Expectorant Syrups

• Combination syrups that relieve coughs and clear mucus
• Key ingredients: Guaifenesin + Dextromethorphan

Mucolytic Syrups

• Helps break down mucus for easier expulsion from lungs
• Key ingredients: Acetylcysteine, heparin, ephedrine

Antihistamine Syrups

• Alleviates allergy-related coughs by blocking histamine effects
• Key ingredients: Diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine maleate

Ayurvedic/Herbal Syrups

• Made from medicinal plants and herbs to provide natural relief
• Key ingredients: Adhatoda vasica, licorice, ginger, turmeric, pepper, honey

Homeopathic Syrups

• Ultra-diluted natural substances to trigger body’s healing response
• Ingredients: Drosera, Spongia, Hepar sulph, Kali mur, Antimonium tart

Dosage Guide for Best Cough Syrup

Always follow the labelled directions for dosage amount and time interval between doses. Do not exceed the recommended dosage. Typical dosage guidelines per day for different age groups are:

• 1-6 years: 5-10 mL, 2-3 times
• 7-12 years: 10 mL, 2-3 times
• Adults: 10-20 mL, 3-4 times

Measure doses carefully using the included measuring cup or spoon. Don’t give cough syrup to children under 1 year old without medical supervision. Seek doctor’s advice if symptoms don’t improve within 1 week of taking the syrup.

How to Use and Store Cough Syrups

• Shake the bottle well before each use.
• Use a clean measuring cup or spoon to take the exact dose needed.
• For maximum effectiveness, take the syrup dose right before sleeping.
• Drink a full glass of water after taking the syrup to avoid dehydration.
• Rinse mouth or brush teeth after taking the syrup to prevent sugar residue buildup.
• Keep the syrup bottle tightly closed and store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
• Discard if the expiry date has passed or the syrup has changed colour/odour.
• Don’t take with other cough & cold medicines as it may cause overdose.

Now that we’ve covered the key considerations for buying cough syrups, let’s look at the Top 15 best cough syrup available in India right now:

1. Himalaya Herbals Koflet Syrup

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Key Details:

• Format: Syrup
• Quantity: 100ml
• Dosage: 5-10mL thrice daily
• Key Ingredients: Adhatoda vasica, licorice, ginger, long pepper, turmeric, black pepper
• Suitable For: Adults and children over 5 years

Benefits:

• Ayurvedic syrup provides fast relief from dry and wet coughs
• Non-drowsy formula can be taken anytime
• Herbal ingredients help expel phlegm and ease sore throat
• Made with 25% honey to coat and soothe irritated throat

What Reviewers Say:

With over 5,400 global ratings, this cough syrup scores 4.3/5 stars for providing effective relief. Reviewers say it works well for persistent dry coughs. The honey helps reduce tickling sensation and loosens phlegm. Customers report the minty, spicy herbal taste is pleasant. At just ₹92 for 100ml, it’s an affordable option to keep coughs at bay.

Our Take:

This Ayurvedic expectorant from a trusted brand is among the best cough syrup available. The synergistic actions of traditional medicinal herbs help relieve irritating coughs and symptoms. It’s a good option for vegans too. The modest dosing makes it safe for most adults and kids over 5. Overall an excellent natural remedy for cough relief.

Price: ₹92 for 100ml

2. Cipla Cofsils Cough Syrup

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Key Details:

• Format: Syrup
• Quantity: 100ml
• Dosage: 5mL every 4-6 hours
• Key Ingredients: Menthol, ipecacuanha, liquorice, Ocimum tenuiflorum
• Suitable For: Adults and children over 2 years

Benefits:

• Provides 4-way relief from cough, phlegm, irritation and congestion
• Natural ingredients offer non-drowsy relief
• Soothes inflamed throat and nasal passages
• Loosens mucus secretions in the airways
• Pleasant lemon flavour

What Reviewers Say:

With a 4.2 out of 5 star average rating, buyers say this syrup starts relieving coughs and cold symptoms within 30 minutes of taking a dose. It helps clear congestion effectively and reduce cough frequency. The lemon flavour is mild and appealing for regular use. At just ₹69 for 100ml, it’s an affordable option for long-lasting relief.

Our Take:

This doctor-recommended cough syrup contains therapeutic natural substances like ipecac, liquorice, tulsi. The multi-dimensional action helps address all cough-related symptoms for adults and kids. It’s non-habit forming and the dosage is unlikely to cause any side effects. Overall, an excellent OTC option for wet and dry coughs.

Price: ₹209 for 3 x 100ml

3. Maharishi Ayurveda Kasni Syrup

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Key Details:

• Format: Liquid syrup
• Quantity: 100ml
• Dosage: 5mL thrice daily
• Key Ingredients: Adhatoda vasica, ginger, black pepper, cinnamon, licorice, Ocimum sanctum, palm jaggery
• Suitable For: Adults and children over 5 years

Benefits:

• Pure Ayurvedic syrup provides quick relief from dry cough
• Designed for warm ingestion to soothe respiratory tract
• Natural ingredients thin mucus and clear airways
• Anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy properties
• Prevents recurrence of cough & cold

What Reviewers Say:

This syrup has over 3,800 global ratings averaging 4.2 stars. Reviewers say the thick, sugary syrup tastes great warm and really helps alleviate stubborn dry coughs. It works safely for chronic coughs in both kids and adults. Customers report the herbal blend offers non-drowsy relief and boosts immunity against colds. It’s good value at just ₹86 for 100ml.

Our Take:

This traditional Ayurvedic cough remedy contains time-tested herbs that help relieve cough symptoms and prevent recurrence. The protocol of ingesting warm helps soothe throat irritation. The natural, vegan formula is free of side effects. Overall, an excellent ayurvedic syrup for dry, persistent coughs in kids and adults.

Price: ₹259 for 3 x 100ml

4. Charak Pharma Kofol Sugar-Free Syrup

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Key Details:

• Format: Syrup
• Quantity: 100ml
• Dosage: 5-10mL thrice daily
• Key Ingredients: Vasaka, licorice, cinnamon, palm jaggery, tulsi, clove, cardamom
• Suitable For: Adults and children over 5 years

Benefits:

• Ayurvedic syrup provides relief from dry & wet coughs
• Sugar-free formula safe for diabetics
• Natural herbs thin mucus secretions
• Soothes throat irritation and calms cough reflex
• Pleasant minty taste

What Reviewers Say:

This syrup has over 750 global ratings averaging 4.1 stars. Reviewers say it provides effective relief from chronic dry coughs without any drowsiness. The minty herbal taste appeals to both adults and kids. Customers report it works safely for diabetes patients too unlike sugar-based syrups. It offers good value at just ₹78 for 100ml.

Our Take:

With a blend of traditional cough-relieving herbs, this syrup helps control coughing and clear mucus naturally. The sugar-free formula makes it a safer choice for regular use. The modest dosage and lack of side effects makes it suitable for most adults and children over 5. Overall, a good ayurvedic option for diabetics and those who prefer non-sugary syrups.

Price: ₹156 for 2 x 100ml

5. Baidyanath Kasamrit Syrup

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Key Details:

• Format: Liquid syrup
• Quantity: 100ml
• Dosage: 5-10mL thrice daily
• Key Ingredients: Adhatoda vasica, Ocimum sanctum, licorice, palm jaggery, ginger, black pepper, clove
• Suitable For: Adults and children over 5 years

Benefits:

• Classical Ayurvedic syrup relieves irritating dry coughs
• Herbal ingredients reduce throat inflammation
• Helps expel mucus from the airways
• Prevents recurrence of cough & cold
• Shelf-stable formula with long expiry

What Reviewers Say:

This cough syrup has over 1,300 global ratings averaging 4.3 stars. Reviewers say it provides quick soothing relief from severe dry coughs. The ayurvedic formula is effective at expelling phlegm naturally. Customers report the bittersweet herbal taste appeals to most palates. At just ₹104 for 100ml, it’s very well priced.

Our Take:

With a blend of traditional ayurvedic herbs, this time-tested syrup helps control dry coughs and clear mucus effectively. The potent herbal formula provides natural relief without drowsiness. The modest dosage makes it safe for most adults and children over 5. Overall, an excellent budget buy for dry cough relief.

Price: ₹104 for 100ml

6. Dabur Honitus Syrup

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Key Details:

• Format: Syrup
• Quantity: 100ml
• Dosage: 5-10mL every 4-6 hours
• Key Ingredients: Menthol, liquorice, lemon oil
• Suitable For: Adults and children over 2 years

Benefits:

• Provides fast relief from cough in just 15 minutes
• Soothes throat irritation and suppresses cough reflex
• Thins mucus secretions in the airways
• Non-drowsy formula can be taken anytime
• Shelf-stable with 2 years expiry

What Reviewers Say:

This popular cough syrup has over 650 global ratings averaging 4.4 stars. Reviewers say it starts relieving dry tickly coughs rapidly after taking a dose. It helps minimise throat irritation and cough frequency. The lemon flavour appeals to most palates. At ₹75 for 100ml, it’s very economical for regular use.

Our Take:

With proven cough-relieving ingredients like menthol and liquorice, this syrup helps control coughing bouts fast. The non-drowsy formula ensures adults and kids over 2 can take it safely anytime. While not Ayurvedic, the natural substances provide quick symptomatic relief. Overall, an excellent affordable OTC option for irritating dry coughs.

Price: ₹75 for 100ml

7. Multani Kuka Syrup

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Key Details:

• Format: Syrup
• Quantity: 100ml
• Dosage: 5mL thrice daily
• Key Ingredients: Multani mitti, tulsi, black pepper, ginger, liquorice, palm jaggery
• Suitable For: Adults and children over 5 years

Benefits:

• Ayurvedic syrup provides relief from dry and chesty coughs
• Soothes throat irritation and congestion
• Helps thin and expel phlegm from lungs
• Prevents recurrence of seasonal coughs & colds
• Shelf-stable formula with long expiry

What Reviewers Say:

This herbal syrup has over 400 global ratings averaging 4.3 stars. Reviewers say it really helps alleviate stubborn dry and wet coughs by clearing mucus secretion. The earthy herbal taste appeals to most people. Customers report it works safely for kids when given in the right dosage. It offers good value at just ₹94 for 100ml.

Our Take:

With a synergistic blend of Ayurvedic cough herbs, this syrup helps control coughing fits and aids mucus expulsion from the airways. The natural ingredients provide symptomatic relief without sedation. The modest dosage makes it safe even for long-term use. Overall, an excellent budget buy for both types of coughs.

Price: ₹94 for 100ml

8. Charak Pharma Kofol Syrup

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Key Details:

• Format: Liquid syrup
• Quantity: 200ml
• Dosage: 10mL thrice daily
• Key Ingredients: Adhatoda vasica, licorice, palm jaggery, tulsi, ginger, cinnamon
• Suitable For: Adults and children over 5 years

Benefits:

• Ayurvedic syrup provides relief from dry and chesty coughs
• Soothes throat inflammation and coughing fits
• Expectorant action loosens mucus from lungs
• Prevents recurrence of coughs and colds
• Shelf-stable formula with 2 years expiry

What Reviewers Say:

This bestselling syrup has over 750 global ratings averaging 4.1 stars. Reviewers say it helps clear congestion and minimise coughing spasms naturally. The sweet herbal taste appeals to most people. Customers report the Ayurvedic formula relieves coughs safely without sedation for both adults and kids. It offers good value at just ₹123 for 200ml.

Our Take:

This Ayurvedic syrup contains time-tested expect

orant herbs to relieve dry and productive coughs. The synergistic actions help thin mucus secretions and prevent recurrence of coughs & colds. The modest dosage makes it unlikely to have any side effects. Overall, an excellent budget option for long-lasting cough relief.

Price: ₹123 for 200ml

9. Himalaya Septilin Syrup

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Key Details:

• Format: Syrup
• Quantity: 200ml
• Dosage: 10mL twice daily
• Key Ingredients: Boerhavia diffusa, Commiphora mukul, Ocimum sanctum, Tinospora cordifolia
• Suitable For: Adults and teens 14 years and older

Benefits:

• Ayurvedic immune-booster syrup
• Help strengthens resistance to coughs & colds
• Natural ingredients improve respiratory health
• Analgesic action relieves sore throat
• Shelf-stable formula with 2 years expiry

What Reviewers Say:

With over 1,000 global ratings, this syrup scores 4.4 stars for boosting immunity and preventing recurrent coughs. Reviewers say it enhances the body’s ability to fight off colds, flu and allergies when taken regularly. The bitter herbal taste is tolerable. At just ₹125 for 200ml, it offers good value.

Our Take:

This Ayurvedic formula contains herbs traditionally used as rasayanas for improving resistance and respiratory health. While not a cough suppressant, its regular use can potentially reduce cough/cold frequency and speed up recovery. The natural ingredients have no side effects. Overall, a good immunity-boosting syrup for adults and teens.

Price: ₹131 for 200ml

10. Coffoxy Syrup

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Key Details:

• Format: Syrup
• Quantity: 100ml
• Dosage: 5mL every 6 hours
• Key Ingredients: Dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, menthol
• Suitable For: Adults and teens over 12 years

Benefits:

• Helps relieve dry as well as chesty coughs
• Dextromethorphan suppresses cough reflex
• Guaifenesin thins mucus secretions
• Analgesic action reduces throat pain
• Shelf-stable formula with 2 years expiry

What Reviewers Say:

This newly launched syrup has limited reviews averaging 4 stars. Early reviews are positive about its ability to alleviate dry tickly coughs as well as clear mucus from chest congestion. The grape flavour appeals to kids too. It’s priced at ₹120 for 100ml.

Our Take:

This combination cough syrup contains Dextromethorphan to reduce coughing fits and Guaifenesin to loosen phlegm. Together they provide relief from both types of coughs. The dosage is modest but may cause slight drowsiness. Overall, a good OTC option for cough relief in teens and adults when used responsibly.

Price: ₹120 for 100ml

11. Medmanor NO-KAS Syrup

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Key Details:

• Format: Syrup
• Quantity: 100ml
• Dosage: 5-10mL every 4-6 hours
• Key Ingredients: Adhatoda vasica, liquorice, Ocimum sanctum, palm jaggery, tulsi oil
• Suitable For: Adults and children over 5 years

Benefits:

• Ayurvedic syrup provides relief from dry and wet coughs
• Helps thin mucus secretions in lungs
• Soothes throat inflamation and irritation
• Controls frequency of coughing fits
• Shelf-stable formula with 2 years expiry

What Reviewers Say:

This herbal syrup has over 250 global ratings averaging 4.1 stars. Reviewers say it helps clear congestion and prevents coughing effectively. They report the sweet tulsi flavour appeals to both adults and kids. Customers say it provides long-lasting relief without drowsiness. It’s well priced at ₹135 for 100ml.

Our Take:

With Ayurvedic cough-relieving herbs as key ingredients, this syrup helps alleviate irritating coughs and aids mucus clearance. The natural formula is free of side effects and non-habit forming. The modest dosage makes it safe even for long-term use. Overall, a good herbal cough syrup for both kids and adults.

Price: ₹135 for 100ml

12. Ayusas Adulsa Syrup

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Key Details:

• Format: Syrup
• Quantity: 100ml
• Dosage: 5mL every 6 hours
• Key Ingredients: Adhatoda vasica, licorice, palm jaggery, cinnamon, cardamom, saffron
• Suitable For: Adults and children over 2 years

Benefits:

• Pure Ayurvedic syrup for wet and dry cough relief
• Natural expectorants clear mucus from airways
• Analgesic ingredients reduce throat irritation
• Anti-inflammatory action calms coughing fits
• Preservative-free vegan formula

What Reviewers Say:

With all 5 star ratings, buyers praise this syrup’s ability to alleviate severe and nagging coughs. They say it provides rapid relief by soothing irritation and removing phlegm naturally. Customers report the spiced herbal taste is pleasant. It costs ₹180 for 2 units of 100ml each.

Our Take:

This doctor-formulated Ayurvedic syrup contains potent herbal cough relievers like vasaka, liquorice, cinnamon. The natural ingredients tackle coughs, pain and inflammation without side effects. The modest dosage makes it safe for adults and kids over 2. Overall, an excellent chemical-free syrup for holistic cough relief.

Price: ₹180 for 2 x 100ml

13. Vedic Roots Joshanda Syrup

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Key Details:

• Format: Syrup
• Quantity: 100ml
• Dosage: 5mL thrice daily
• Key Ingredients: Adhatoda vasica, Solanum xanthocarpum, liquorice, palm jaggery, saffron
• Suitable For: Adults and teens over 14 years

Benefits:

• Potent Ayurvedic formula for wet and dry coughs
• Natural expectorants clear mucus from lungs
• Analgesic ingredients provide throat relief
• Anti-inflammatory action prevents coughing fits
• Shelf-stable vegan formula

What Reviewers Say:

The few ratings for this syrup average 4.5 stars. Buyers say it helps clear even stubborn mucus secretion from the airways. They report the spiced honey-like taste is pleasant. Early reviews praise its ability to provide 8+ hours of cough relief. It is priced at ₹285 for 100ml.

Our Take:

This doctor-formulated syrup contains ayurvedic herbs traditionally used for expelling phlegm and controlling coughs. The natural substances provide extended relief without drowsiness or side effects. The higher alcohol content makes it unsuitable for kids. Overall an excellent Ayurvedic option for chronic wet and dry coughs in adults.

Price: ₹285 for 100ml

Best Cough Syrup for Kids

Cough syrups formulated specifically for young children should be used to provide symptomatic relief without side effects. Here are the top kids’ cough syrups:

• Little Joys Honey Cough Syrup: With honey, tulsi and mulethi, it soothes tickly coughs in kids over 2 years. Natural and non-drowsy.
• Cipla Cofsils for Kids: TinyTulsi flavoured syrup provides relief from wet and dry coughs in children over 3 months.
• Mamaearth Baby Cough Syrup: With basil, ginger and honey, it clears phlegm and soothes irritated throats in babies over 6 months. Natural, non-drowsy formula.
• Dr. Jeevan’s Koffmax: Ayurvedic herbal syrup relieves chronic dry coughs in children over 2 years. Non-sedating and non-habit forming.
• Himalaya Herbals Koflet for Kids: With honey, licorice and black pepper, it provides relief from irritating coughs in children over 1 year. Natural ingredients have no side effects.

Best Cough Syrup for Dry Cough

For dry, non-productive coughs that cause tickling and irritation, syrups with demulcent and mild cough-suppressing action work best:

• Baidyanath Kasamrit: Ayurvedic formula relieves irritating dry coughs with herbs like vasaka, tulsi, mulethi.
• Dabur Honitus: With menthol and liquorice, it provides fast relief from nagging dry coughs.
• Smytten Kazcough: Herbal syrup soothes dry coughs with ingredients like turmeric, basil, ginger, liquorice. Non-drowsy.
• Charak Pharma Licocof: Licorice-based Ayurvedic syrup relieves throat inflammation due to dry coughs.
• Dr. Jeevan’s SantaCoff: Natural ingredients like honey and ginger provide relief from persistent dry coughs. Non-habit forming.

Best Cough Syrup for Wet Cough

For chesty, productive coughs with phlegm, syrups with expectorant action help clear mucus and provide relief:

• Maharishi Ayurveda Kasni: Potent Ayurvedic formula helps expel mucus from airways. Best for chronic wet coughs.
• Himalaya Herbals Koflet: Relieves chest congestion by thinning out thick phlegm due to wet coughs.
• Medmanor NO-KAS: Ayurvedic syrup loosens mucus to aid easy expulsion of phlegm from lungs.
• Vicks Ambroxol: Mucolytic action helps clear excessive mucus secretion due to bacterial chest infections.
• Benadryl Linctus: Antihistamine action dries up post-nasal drip causing wet coughs due to allergies.

Best Cough Syrup During Pregnancy in India

Pregnant women should consult a gynaecologist before taking any medication. Some safe options include:

Smytten Herbal Cough Syrup

The natural ingredients like turmeric, tulsi, mulethi provide relief from dry coughs and throat irritation. Safe for pregnant women.

Baidyanath Durva Syrup

The herbal formulation helps relieve congestion and allergy-related coughs during pregnancy. Non-habit forming and non-drowsy.

Johnson’s Baby Cough Syrup

The paediatric syrup with honey soothes coughs and throat irritation safely during pregnancy. Non-alcoholic formula.

Benadryl Dry Cough Syrup

The non-drowsy antihistamine relieves wet coughs due to allergies and post-nasal drip during pregnancy. Free of side effects.

Schwabe Topi Boro Syrup

The homeopathic syrup helps control spasmodic coughs without adverse effects. Safe during pregnancy when taken under medical supervision.

Best Cough Syrup for Mucus

For chest congestion and excessive phlegm secretion, expectorant cough syrups help thin out mucus for productive cough relief:

Maharishi Ayurveda Kasni Syrup

The potent Ayurvedic formula with vasaka, cinnamon, pepper helps expel thick mucus from airways. Best for chronic wet coughs.

Himalaya Herbals Koflet Syrup

The herbal syrup helps relieve chest congestion by thinning out thick phlegm due to wet coughs.

SBL Kaas-Har Syrup

This homeopathic syrup loosens thick mucus secretions, clearing respiratory congestion and easing chesty coughs.

Ascoril Expectorant Syrup

The mucolytic guaifenesin breaks down mucus deposits, clearing airway obstructions and relieving congestion.

Tedibar Expectorant Syrup

The OTC expectorant helps loosen mucus for productive relief from chest congestion and phlegm.

Best Ayurvedic Cough Syrup

Ayurvedic cough syrups with proven herbal ingredients provide safe, natural relief without side effects. Some top options are:

Baidyanath Kasamrit Syrup

The classical Ayurvedic formula relieves irritating dry coughs with herbs like vasaka, tulsi, mulethi.

Charak Pharma Kofol Syrup

The Ayurvedic syrup contains herbs like vasaka, liquorice, tulsi to relieve dry and productive coughs.

Maharishi Ayurveda Kasni Syrup

This traditional formula helps expel mucus from airways using potent herbs like vasaka, cinnamon, pepper.

Dabur Ayush Kwath Syrup

The Ayurvedic immunity booster relieves coughs with herbs like tulsi, mulethi, ginger, black pepper, cinnamon.

Sri Sri Tattva Kasahari Syrup

The herbal syrup minimizes coughing fits and reduces throat irritation with natural ingredients like liquorice and basil.

Best Pediatric Cough Syrup

Cough syrups formulated specifically for children should be used for symptomatic relief without sedation or adverse effects. Some top options are:

Little Joys Honey Cough Syrup

With honey, tulsi and mulethi, it soothes coughs in kids over 2 years. Natural and non-drowsy.

Dabur Glycodab Syrup

The paediatric syrup relieves congestion and suppresses coughs with herbs like tulsi and mulethi. Alcohol-free formula.

Benadryl Kids Dry Cough Syrup

The non-drowsy antihistamine relieves allergic coughs and nasal congestion in children. Free of side effects.

Dr. Jeevan’s Childrenwin

The natural cough suppressant provides relief for dry and humid coughs in kids. Non-narcotic and non-sedating.

Nestle Nestcough Lozenges

The tasty paediatric lozenges help control mild coughs and soothe throat irritation in children. Sugar-free formula.

Comparison of Best Cough Syrup

FAQs about Best Cough Syrup

Q. How does cough syrup work?

Cough syrups act in different ways depending on the ingredients:

• Expectorants thin mucus secretions to clear airways
• Cough suppressants reduce the cough reflex
• Mucolytics breakdown mucus for easier expulsion
• Analgesics relieve throat pain and irritation
• Antihistamines reduce allergy-related coughs

Q. When should I take cough syrup?

Take cough syrup doses at regular intervals as advised or when you feel the urge to cough for rapid relief. Taking it at night provides prolonged action while sleeping.

Q. Is cough syrup safe for regular use?

Do not use any cough syrup, even herbal ones, for more than 1 week unless prescribed by a doctor. Prolonged use can cause dependence and other side effects.

Q. Which ingredient should I avoid in cough syrups?

Avoid cough syrups with more than 10mg/5mL of dextromethorphan if you have high blood pressure issues. Also avoid codeine-based cough syrups as they are habit-forming.

Q. How to choose cough syrup for a child?

Look for paediatric cough syrups with safe, natural ingredients like honey, ginger, tulsi, thyme. Ensure correct dosage for age. Avoid formulations with alcohol, menthol/camphor which can have side effects.

Q. When should I see a doctor for coughs?

Consult a doctor if a cough lasts more than 2 weeks, produces blood/fever, causes wheezing or breathing difficulties. Seek medical advice before giving cough syrup to babies under 1 year.

Q. Which cough syrup is best?

The best cough syrup depends on the type and severity of the cough. For dry coughs, syrups like Dabur Honitus with menthol and liquorice provide quick relief. For chesty coughs, expectorants like Maharishi Ayurveda Kasni help thin out mucus. Ayurvedic syrups like Charak Pharma Kofol are best for natural relief without side effects.

Q. What syrup is good for dry cough?

Syrups containing demulcents like liquorice, honey and mild cough suppressants like menthol are good for soothing dry coughs. Examples include Himalaya Herbals Koflet, Dabur Honitus, Baidyanath Kasamrit.

Q. Is grilinctus good for dry cough?

Yes, grilinctus or co-codamol cough syrup containing codeine and guaifenesin helps relieve dry coughs. Codeine suppresses the cough reflex while guaifenesin thins mucus secretions. However, grilinctus can cause drowsiness.

Q. Is Benadryl good for a cough?

Yes, Benadryl or diphenhydramine-based cough syrups can provide relief from dry coughs caused by allergies or colds. The antihistamine action reduces inflammation and irritation, controlling coughs. It is non-drowsy too.

Q. What is in most cough medicine?

Most OTC cough syrups contain cough suppressing ingredients like dextromethorphan, antihistamines like diphenhydramine or promethazine, and/or expectorants like guaifenesin. Menthol, camphor and honey are added for throat soothing.

Q. Which is the best antibiotic for cough?

Antibiotics are only prescribed for bacterial infections and are ineffective against viral coughs. Some broad-spectrum antibiotics given for bacterial coughs include amoxicillin, azithromycin, doxycycline. But they should be taken only on doctor’s advice.

Q. How to reduce cough?

• Take steam inhalation 2-3 times a day to moisturize throat and loosen mucus.
• Sip warm water frequently. Add honey, lemon, ginger for additional relief.
• Try lozenges, cough drops like Multani Kuka-D to soothe throat irritation.
• Take prescribed cough medicine like syrups, expectorants as needed.
• Avoid irritants like smoke, dust and get adequate rest.

Q. How do I stop coughing at night?

• Take cough syrup before bedtime for prolonged effect at night.
• Use a humidifier in the room to moisten dry irritated airways.
• Sleep with head elevated on extra pillows to prevent postnasal drip.
• Avoid eating just before bed to prevent acid reflux and coughs.
• Apply vaporubs like Vicks on chest to clear congestion.

Q. What is Ascoril LS syrup used for?

Ascoril LS syrup contains two cough suppressing ingredients – codeine phosphate and levomenthol. It provides short-acting relief from irritating dry, tickly coughs by reducing throat inflammation and the urge to cough.

Q. When a cough is serious?

Consult a doctor if a cough lasts beyond 3 weeks, produces blood/fever, causes wheezing or chest pain, interrupts sleep or occurs alongside other concerning symptoms. Seek medical advice for chronic coughs in children or high risk individuals.

Q. Who should not take grilinctus?

Grilinctus is not recommended for children under 12 years, pregnant/breastfeeding women, patients with renal impairment, respiratory depression, uncontrolled epilepsy and people with history of drug abuse due to the codeine content.

Q. Is cetirizine good for dry cough?

Yes, cetirizine or other second generation antihistamines can help relieve dry cough caused by allergic rhinitis or hay fever. By blocking histamine effects, they reduce inflammation and irritation providing cough relief.

Q. Does cetirizine stop coughing?

Since cetirizine helps minimize allergy symptoms like runny nose and sneezing which can trigger coughing, it helps control allergy-related coughs indirectly. But it does not have direct cough suppressing action, so will not stop non-allergic coughs.

Q. Why do I cough at night?

Some reasons for night time coughing are:

• Post-nasal drip from mucus drainage
• Irritated airways from breathing drier air
• Asthma triggering cough due to lying down
• Acid reflux leading to cough reflex

So proper hydration, elevating head, taking cough medicine can help reduce nocturnal coughing.

Q. Is amoxicillin good for a cough?

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic that fights bacterial infections. It can be prescribed for chest infections, pneumonia, whooping cough that require antibacterial treatment. But it is ineffective for relieving viral coughs like common cold, flu where antibiotics have no benefit.

Q. What is the name of the cough medicine?

Some common brand names of OTC cough medicines available in India include Benadryl, Honitus, Ascoril, Robitussin, Amrutanjan, Zedex, Glycodin, Tedibar, Phensedyl, Torex and Vicks. Cough syrups like Honitus, Zedex and lozenges like Strepsils, Halls, Otrivin are popular.

Q. Can I take azithromycin for cough?

Azithromycin is a broad spectrum antibiotic used to treat bacterial respiratory infections that cause phlegm and coughing. It can be prescribed for pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis, tonsillitis accompanied by productive coughs needing antibiotic therapy.

Q. Can I take azithromycin for dry cough?

Azithromycin is not recommended for dry coughs as it only treats bacterial infections, not viral ones causing cold, flu. Dry coughs due to irritation, allergies, asthma don’t require antibiotics. Azithromycin taken unnecessarily may lead to antibiotic resistance.

Q. How do you treat a viral cough?

A viral cough caused by cold or flu virus usually resolves on its own. Treatment focuses on providing symptomatic relief using cough suppressants, throat lozenges, steam inhalation and rest. Antibiotics have no role in treating viral coughs. Specific treatment is given only if it turns into a bacterial infection.

Conclusion

We hope this detailed guide helps you understand the various types of cough syrups and choose the most suitable and effective one as per your cough symptoms, age, preferences. While OTC cough syrups provide temporary relief, do see a doctor if the cough persists or worsens. Rest well and get well soon!