Corex DX
Corex DX is a syrup (per 5 ml) made by Pfizer that contains Chlorpheniramine 4 mg + Dextromethorphan 10 mg. It combines Chlorpheniramine: antihistamine (older type) and Dextromethorphan: cough suppressant.
| Ingredient (salt) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chlorpheniramine | 4 mg |
| Dextromethorphan | 10 mg |
Chlorpheniramine
What it is used for
Reduces sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes and itching from colds and allergies.
How it works
An older antihistamine that blocks histamine and reduces sneezing, runny nose and itching; it also causes drowsiness.
How to take it
Adults usually take 4 mg every 4 to 6 hours, no more than 24 mg a day. Avoid driving if it makes you drowsy.
Common side effects
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Difficulty passing urine
Get medical help straight away if
- Confusion, fast heartbeat or inability to pass urine
- Allergic reaction
Be careful
Causes drowsiness; avoid driving and alcohol.
Other medicines and interactions
Drowsiness is much stronger with alcohol, sleeping pills, opioids and other sedating medicines. Take care with other anticholinergic medicines.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Has been used in pregnancy when needed, but ask a doctor first. Can make breastfed babies drowsy and may reduce milk supply; non-drowsy options are usually preferred.
Dextromethorphan
What it is used for
Calms a dry, tickly cough.
How it works
A cough suppressant that acts on the cough centre of the brain. It is meant for a dry, tickly cough.
How to take it
Adults usually take 10 to 20 mg every 4 hours or 30 mg every 6 to 8 hours; no more than 120 mg a day. Not for children under 6 unless advised.
Common side effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Constipation
Get medical help straight away if
- Agitation, confusion, fever, shivering or muscle twitching (serotonin syndrome)
- Hallucinations (sign of misuse or overdose)
Be careful
Not for chesty cough with phlegm; misuse in high doses is dangerous.
Other medicines and interactions
Do not combine with MAOI antidepressants. Risk of serotonin syndrome with SSRIs, SNRIs and tramadol. More drowsiness with alcohol and sedatives.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Short use is generally considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding, but ask a pharmacist first; avoid combination products with many ingredients.
Common questions
What is Corex DX?
Corex DX is a syrup (per 5 ml) by Pfizer containing Chlorpheniramine 4 mg + Dextromethorphan 10 mg.
What is Corex DX used for?
Reduces sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes and itching from colds and allergies. Calms a dry, tickly cough.
How should I take Corex DX?
Adults usually take 4 mg every 4 to 6 hours, no more than 24 mg a day. Avoid driving if it makes you drowsy. Adults usually take 10 to 20 mg every 4 hours or 30 mg every 6 to 8 hours; no more than 120 mg a day. Not for children under 6 unless advised. Always follow the dose your doctor or the pack gives.
What are the side effects of Corex DX?
Common side effects include: Drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, difficulty passing urine, Drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, constipation. Get medical help straight away for: Confusion, fast heartbeat or inability to pass urine, allergic reaction, Agitation, confusion, fever, shivering or muscle twitching (serotonin syndrome), hallucinations (sign of misuse or overdose).
Does Corex DX need a prescription?
It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.
Can I take Corex DX in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Has been used in pregnancy when needed, but ask a doctor first. Can make breastfed babies drowsy and may reduce milk supply; non-drowsy options are usually preferred. Short use is generally considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding, but ask a pharmacist first; avoid combination products with many ingredients.
What are the substitutes for Corex DX?
We have no other brand with exactly the same composition and strength in our list yet. Ask your pharmacist for an equivalent.
Sources and further reading
- Chlorpheniramine: NHS · MedlinePlus
- Dextromethorphan: NHS · MedlinePlus
NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.
Composition checked against pack details from large Indian online pharmacies. Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.
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