Ambroxol is used to thin and loosen mucus or phlegm in the airways. Learn how to use the medication, its common side effects, special precautions to watch out for, and more.

What is this medication for?

Ambroxol is a type of mucolytic that works by thinning and loosening mucus or phlegm in the airways, helping to clear chest congestion thus making breathing easier. It may come in tablet, prolonged-release capsule or syrup form.

How should I take or use this medication?

• Prolonged-release capsules are for adults only:
  • For capsules (Ambroxol 75mg):
    • Take one capsule once daily.
    • Swallow whole, do not chew or crush.
• Tablets are for adults and children above 12 years old:
  • For tablets (Ambroxol 30mg):
    • Take one tablet three times daily.
• Syrups are for adults and children above 2 years old:
  • You may find the dosage on the packaging of the medicine and according to age:
    • For Ambroxol 30mg (in every 5mL):
      • 2 – 6 years old: Take 2.5mL three times daily
      • 6 – 12 years old: Take 5mL two to three times daily
      • Adults and above 12 years old: Take 10mL two times daily
• For syrups, shake the bottle well before use.
• You should take Ambroxol after food. Capsules may be taken with or without food.
• Consult your healthcare professional if you are not sure how to take these medications correctly.
• If your symptoms persist or worsen after one week of taking these medications, please talk to your healthcare professional.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

Ambroxol may be taken when required for a short period of time. This means you do not have to take them if you do not have symptoms. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue normally. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if: 

• You are allergic to Ambroxol or any other ingredients used in these medications.
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.
• You have existing conditions such as gastric ulcers, liver or kidney problems and lung conditions e.g. Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (COPD) or severe uncontrolled asthma.
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding.
• You have a cough with thick yellow or green phlegm or mucus, or blood.
• You have a fever of more than 38.6^oC.
• You lose weight even though you are not trying to do so.
• You have night sweats.
• Your cough lasts for more than 3-4 weeks.
• You develop new symptoms during self-treatment.

What are some common side effects of this medication?

• Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. 
  • These side effects are usually mild and will pass quickly.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

Let your healthcare professional know if you are taking, or planning to take any other herbal products, supplements or medications.

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children. 

For syrups, discard the bottle 6 months after opening, as per manufacturer’s recommendations or if expired, whichever is sooner.

How do I throw away this medication safely?

Pack these medications into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.

Disclaimer

Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated on July 2024