Three OTC syrup presentations with dextromethorphan HBr (cough suppressant) and guaifenesin (expectorant). Compare the formula, labeled age range and package Drug Facts before choosing.
What each active ingredient does
The labels list temporary relief of cough from minor throat and bronchial irritation associated with the common cold, and help loosening phlegm and thinning bronchial secretions to make coughs more productive.
Dextromethorphan: cough suppressant. Guaifenesin: expectorant. These roles do not make the three presentations interchangeable.
| BISOLVINE Adult | Dextromethorphan HBr 20 mg + guaifenesin 200 mg per 10 mL. 4 fl oz (120 mL) · 1 bottle Adults and children 12 years and older: 10 mL every 4 hours. Children under 12: do not use. |
|---|---|
| BISOLVINE Children | Dextromethorphan HBr 10 mg + guaifenesin 100 mg per 15 mL. 4 fl oz (120 mL) · 1 bottle Children 6 to under 12 years: 15 mL every 4 hours. Children under 6: do not use. |
| BISOLVINE Aloe-Miel | Dextromethorphan HBr 10 mg + guaifenesin 100 mg per 15 mL. 6 fl oz (180 mL) per bottle · 1- or 2-bottle packs Adults and children 12 years and older: 30 mL every 4 hours. Children under 12: consult a doctor. |
A strength needs its reference volume
Always read mg together with mL. The product name or box color alone is not enough to choose an amount. Adult and Children come in 4 fl oz bottles; Aloe-Miel comes in 6 fl oz bottles.
Do not exceed 6 doses in 24 hours. Do not exceed the recommended dose; use a device marked in mL and follow the package you receive.
Age and warnings
- Do not use with a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), or for 2 weeks after stopping it. If unsure, ask a doctor or pharmacist.
- Do not use for persistent or chronic cough, or cough with excessive phlegm, unless directed by a doctor. Consult a doctor if cough lasts more than a week, returns, or occurs with fever, rash or persistent headache.
- If pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before use. Keep out of reach of children. For accidental overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.
Aloe-Miel lists 0.15% alcohol. Aloe and honey appear among the inactive ingredients; they do not replace the two drug active ingredients.
Brand products
Related reading
- BISOLVINE: warnings, ingredients and measuring in mL
- BISOLVINE: 4 and 6 fl oz bottles and Aloe-Miel packs
Sources: Drug Facts BISOLVINE Adult · Drug Facts BISOLVINE Children · Drug Facts BISOLVINE Aloe-Miel
