Ambroxol
Ambroxol is a mucus thinner (mucolytic) found in 14 medicines sold in India, such as Ascoril LS, Ambrodil-LX, Kofarest-LS. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.
What it is used for
Loosens thick phlegm so it is easier to cough up.
How it works
It thins thick mucus and helps the airways clear it, so coughing brings it up more easily. It also has a mild numbing effect on a sore throat.
How to take it
Adults usually take 30 mg two or three times a day after food, or as syrup. Drink plenty of water.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Stomach upset
- Altered taste
- Numb mouth or throat
Get medical help straight away if
- Severe skin reaction (rare)
- Allergic swelling
Be careful
Stop and seek help if a skin rash appears.
Other medicines and interactions
Do not take with cough suppressants such as dextromethorphan or codeine for a wet cough, as mucus can build up.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Avoid in the first three months of pregnancy and while breastfeeding unless a doctor advises it.
Combination medicines that contain Ambroxol (14)
Common questions
What is Ambroxol used for?
Loosens thick phlegm so it is easier to cough up.
How does Ambroxol work?
It thins thick mucus and helps the airways clear it, so coughing brings it up more easily. It also has a mild numbing effect on a sore throat.
How should I take Ambroxol?
Adults usually take 30 mg two or three times a day after food, or as syrup. Drink plenty of water.
What are the side effects of Ambroxol?
Common: Nausea, stomach upset, altered taste, numb mouth or throat. Get help straight away for: Severe skin reaction (rare), allergic swelling.
Does Ambroxol interact with other medicines?
Do not take with cough suppressants such as dextromethorphan or codeine for a wet cough, as mucus can build up.
Is Ambroxol safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Avoid in the first three months of pregnancy and while breastfeeding unless a doctor advises it.
Does Ambroxol need a prescription in India?
It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.
Which brands contain Ambroxol?
Ambrodil-LX, Ambrolite Levo, Ascoril LS, Asthalin AX, Chericof-LS, Deletus LS, Indikof LS, Kofarest-LS, Kofirax, Mucaryl LS, Reswas LS, Salbetol LS, Solvin LS, Zerotuss XP.
Sources and further reading
- Ambroxol: 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.
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.
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