Bronchostop Cough Syrup is a Traditional Herbal Registration (THR) oral syrup. Firstly, it is a herbal medicine registered under the traditional herbal registration scheme in the UK.
Also, THR products meet MHRA quality and safety standards but their efficacy is based on traditional use rather than clinical trials required for licensed medicines.
However, Bronchostop contains two herbal actives per 15ml dose. Firstly, 120mg thyme herb extract (dry extract) from Thymus vulgaris L. and Thymus zygis L.
Also, 830mg marshmallow root extract (liquid extract) from Althaea officinalis L.
Furthermore, the manufacturer is Chefaro UK Ltd under the Buttercup brand. Buttercup is a long-established UK cough remedy brand.
Dual action for both dry and chesty coughs
Most cough medicines target one type of cough. Firstly, expectorants (like guaifenesin) target chesty productive coughs. Cough suppressants (like dextromethorphan or pholcodine) target dry, tickly coughs.
However, Bronchostop’s herbal combination targets both. Firstly, marshmallow root’s demulcent action soothes throat irritation and reduces the urge to cough (helpful for dry coughs).
Also, thyme’s expectorant action helps loosen mucus and makes a chesty cough more productive.
Furthermore, this dual action is Bronchostop’s distinctive selling point. Firstly, it is useful when the cough type is unclear or when both features are present.
Traditional Herbal Registration status
Bronchostop holds a Traditional Herbal Registration (THR) from the MHRA. Firstly, THR is a specific regulatory category for traditional herbal medicines.
Also, THR requires manufacturing to the same quality standards as licensed medicines, evidence of at least 30 years of traditional use (15 years in the EU), and safety data.
However, THR products’ clinical efficacy is based on traditional use, not on modern clinical trials. Firstly, this differs from Marketing Authorisation medicines like paracetamol or guaifenesin syrups.
Furthermore, THR products carry the specific traditional use claim: ‘A traditional herbal medicinal product used for the relief of coughs, such as chesty coughs and dry, tickly, irritating coughs and catarrh, based on traditional use only.’
Non-drowsy, alcohol-free formulation
Bronchostop contains no antihistamine, no opioid cough suppressant, no decongestant, and no alcohol. Firstly, this means it will not cause drowsiness or affect alertness.
Also, it is suitable for daytime use during working hours.
However, if cough is disturbing your sleep, a herbal expectorant like Bronchostop may not be the best night-time choice if the cough is dry. A cough suppressant (like Night Nurse or pholcodine linctus) would fit better for a cough that keeps you awake.
Key features and specifications
Active ingredients per 15ml: thyme herb dry extract 120mg + marshmallow root liquid extract 830mg
Adult dose per intake: 15ml (one tablespoon)
Form: oral syrup (also available as pastilles and Junior version)
Pack sizes: 120ml, 200ml, or 240ml bottle
Class: Traditional Herbal Registration (THR) medicine
Legal status: General Sale List (GSL), available from pharmacies, supermarkets, and other retailers
Age: adults and adolescents 12 and over
Excipients with known effect: sucrose, glucose, fructose, propylene glycol (E1520), methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218), propyl parahydroxybenzoate (E216). Newer sugar-free versions may contain xylitol (E967) instead
Other ingredients: purified water, xanthan gum, citric acid, raspberry flavourings, and (in some versions) maltodextrin, acacia (E414), raspberry juice concentrate
Storage: below 25°C, keep in original packaging. Use within 3 months of opening
Distinctive features: dual action for both dry and chesty coughs, herbal (THR), non-drowsy, alcohol-free, contains parabens
Additional information
Pack size
1 x 120ml, 1 x 200ml, 1 x 240ml
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A traditional herbal cough syrup for both dry and chesty coughs
Bronchostop Cough Syrup is a Traditional Herbal Registration (THR) medicine from the Buttercup brand. It contains two herbal actives working together: thyme herb extract and marshmallow root extract.
Also, thyme herb extract acts as an expectorant and mild antispasmodic. Firstly, it helps loosen mucus in the airways, making a chesty cough more productive at clearing phlegm.
However, marshmallow root extract acts as a demulcent. Firstly, it forms a soothing film over the throat’s mucous membranes, reducing the irritation that drives a dry, tickly cough.
Furthermore, this dual action is Bronchostop’s distinctive feature. Firstly, most cough medicines target either dry coughs (with a suppressant) or chesty coughs (with an expectorant). Bronchostop works for both.
Above all, adults and children 12 and over take 15ml (one tablespoon) up to 5 times a day. Firstly, this delivers herbal extract doses within traditional use ranges.
Also, the syrup is non-drowsy. It contains no antihistamine, no opioid cough suppressant, and no decongestant. Firstly, this makes it suitable for daytime use without affecting alertness.
However, Bronchostop Cough Syrup is alcohol-free. This is helpful for those avoiding alcohol for religious, medical, or personal reasons.
Furthermore, the syrup is not for children under 12. Firstly, Bronchostop Junior is a separate product for children aged 1-12.
Bronchostop can usually be taken alongside plain paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain and fever from cold or flu.
However, seek medical advice if your cough lasts more than 7 days, keeps recurring, or is accompanied by fever, breathlessness, or blood in the phlegm.
At Courier Pharmacy, we stock Bronchostop Cough Syrup alongside other cough options. Our pharmacy team can advise on whether it fits your specific cough symptoms and situation.
When to see a doctor rather than self-treat
Bronchostop Cough Syrup is for short-term self-care of acute cough. However, some situations need medical assessment rather than continued over-the-counter treatment.
Cough lasting more than 7 days, or recurring after apparent recovery
Cough with blood, pink frothy sputum, or coughing up unusually large amounts of phlegm
Cough with fever, especially high fever (above 39°C)
Cough with rash or persistent headache
Cough with wheezing, chest pain, or difficulty breathing (possible asthma, pneumonia, or other serious condition)
Cough with unintentional weight loss, night sweats, or persistent tiredness
Cough after choking on food or a small object (possible foreign body inhalation)
Cough lasting more than 3 weeks in total (a persistent cough needs medical assessment)
Known asthma or COPD, especially if usual inhalers are not controlling symptoms
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, don’t take Bronchostop without medical advice
If you have known allergy to thyme, marshmallow root, or related plants (Lamiaceae or Malvaceae families)
Five key takeaways
Bronchostop Cough Syrup is a Traditional Herbal Registration (THR) medicine containing thyme herb extract (120mg per 15ml) and marshmallow root extract (830mg per 15ml).
Dual action: thyme loosens mucus (chesty cough), marshmallow root soothes throat irritation (dry, tickly cough). Works for BOTH cough types.
Age 12 and over only. Dose: 15ml (one tablespoon) up to 5 times daily. Maximum 75ml (5 doses) in 24 hours. Non-drowsy and alcohol-free.
Not recommended in pregnancy, breastfeeding, or for children under 12 (Bronchostop Junior exists for ages 1-12). Talk to a doctor if symptoms worsen or persist after 7 days.
Contains sugar (sucrose, glucose, fructose) or xylitol in the sugar-free version. Contains paraben preservatives (methyl and propyl parahydroxybenzoate). General sale list (GSL).
What is Bronchostop Cough Syrup: overview
Where Bronchostop fits in cough self-care
Coughs are usually categorised into two main types. Firstly, productive (chesty) coughs bring up phlegm from the chest.
Also, dry (tickly) coughs do not bring up phlegm and can be irritating to the throat.
However, the two types usually need different treatment. Expectorants (like guaifenesin) suit productive coughs; suppressants (like dextromethorphan or pholcodine) suit dry coughs.
Furthermore, Bronchostop’s herbal combination targets both types with its dual action. Firstly, this makes it useful when the cough type is unclear or when features of both are present.
Bronchostop Cough Syrup vs Bronchostop Cough Pastilles
The Bronchostop range includes Cough Pastilles (pack of 40). Firstly, the pastilles contain thyme herb extract only, without marshmallow root.
Also, the pastilles are more portable than the syrup bottle, useful when out and about.
However, the syrup has the fuller dual herbal action. Firstly, the marshmallow root’s soothing coating is particularly useful for irritated, tickly throats.
Bronchostop Cough Syrup vs Bronchostop Junior
Bronchostop Junior is a separate product designed for children aged 1-12. Firstly, it contains marshmallow root extract only (without thyme).
Also, this reflects the different herbal safety considerations in younger children.
However, adults and adolescents 12+ should use the standard Bronchostop Cough Syrup (with both actives), not Junior.
Bronchostop vs Benylin Mucus Max
Benylin Mucus Max contains guaifenesin 100mg per 5ml as a single-active expectorant. Firstly, guaifenesin is a licensed medicine (not a traditional herbal medicine).
Also, Benylin Mucus Max is specifically for chesty productive coughs. It is not for dry, tickly coughs.
However, Bronchostop’s herbal combination works for both dry and chesty coughs. Firstly, this is Bronchostop’s distinctive advantage.
Bronchostop vs Benylin Dry Cough (dextromethorphan)
Benylin Dry Cough contains dextromethorphan as a cough suppressant. Firstly, it is designed to reduce the cough reflex for dry, tickly coughs.
Also, Bronchostop’s marshmallow root component provides herbal soothing action for dry coughs without pharmacological suppression.
However, patients who prefer herbal remedies may choose Bronchostop over dextromethorphan products.
Bronchostop vs Simple Linctus
Simple linctus contains sucrose or glucose in a demulcent base (usually with citric acid). Firstly, it soothes the throat but has no active pharmacological ingredients.
Also, simple linctus is often used for children and in pregnancy where other cough medicines are not suitable.
However, Bronchostop has more targeted herbal actives. Firstly, this makes it more effective for both cough types in adults and adolescents.
Bronchostop vs Beechams All in One Tablets
Beechams All in One Tablets contain paracetamol, guaifenesin, and phenylephrine. Firstly, it is a combined product for cold and flu with chesty productive cough.
Also, Bronchostop is a single-purpose cough product (herbal actives only).
However, if you have cough alongside cold and flu symptoms (headache, congestion, fever), a combination product like Beechams All in One may be more convenient. If cough is your main symptom, Bronchostop is more targeted.
Bronchostop vs traditional home remedies
Honey and lemon in warm water is a long-established traditional cough remedy. Firstly, honey has a mild coating and soothing effect on the throat.
Also, hydration and rest support recovery from any cough.
However, Bronchostop’s standardised herbal extracts provide a more consistent dose than home remedies. Firstly, this makes it more reliable for symptom control.
When simpler options are enough
For mild acute cough, hydration, rest, and honey and lemon may be enough. Firstly, most acute coughs resolve on their own within 5-7 days.
Also, medication is not always needed.
However, if the cough is bothersome, affecting sleep, or lasting more than a few days, Bronchostop is a reasonable herbal option to try.
Short-term use only
Bronchostop is for short-term (up to 7 days) symptom relief. Firstly, symptoms persisting beyond this need medical assessment.
Also, a cough lasting more than 3 weeks is considered chronic and needs proper diagnosis. Chronic cough has many possible causes.
Why choose Courier Pharmacy for your Bronchostop Cough Syrup
Registered, independent, and patient-led
Courier Pharmacy is a UK-registered independent pharmacy regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council. Firstly, even for a general sale herbal product like Bronchostop, pharmacist support matters.
Also, a short conversation can help you choose the right cough medicine for your specific symptoms and situation.
However, we treat every request as a chance to check that the product fits your situation. This is not a simple retail transaction.
Dr Ada Jex-Cori, our brand pharmacist
Our brand pharmacist is Dr Ada Jex-Cori. She represents the spirit of what we do. Named for Ada Lovelace, Sophia Jex-Blake, and Gerty Cori, she stands for evidence-led, unafraid-of-questions medicine. Her message is straightforward. You’re not broken. The system is. We’re here to change that.
Care that keeps showing up
Purchases are not one-off transactions when done properly. Firstly, we are here to answer follow-up questions if the syrup is not working as expected.
Also, if your cough persists beyond 7 days or worsens, contact us. We can help you think through the next step, including when a GP appointment is needed.
Buy Bronchostop Cough Syrup from Courier Pharmacy
Bronchostop Cough Syrup is a general sale list (GSL) traditional herbal medicine. You can order at courierpharmacy.co.uk in 120ml, 200ml, or 240ml bottles.
Add Bronchostop Cough Syrup to your basket in your chosen bottle size
Our pharmacy team reviews the sale as part of our routine pharmacy check
Your order is dispatched promptly
Follow the pack directions carefully. Contact us if you have questions
If Bronchostop is not the right product for your cough, we will explain why. Options include Benylin Mucus Max for chesty productive cough only, a cough suppressant if your cough is dry (Benylin Dry Cough, pholcodine linctus), Bronchostop Junior for children aged 1-12, a combined cold and flu product if you have multiple symptoms (Beechams All in One Tablets, Lemsip Max), or referral to your GP for persistent symptoms.
Above all, we will not sell a product that is not right for your situation.
Summary
A traditional herbal cough syrup for adults and adolescents 12+ with dry, tickly, chesty coughs or catarrh.
Contains two herbal actives per 15ml: thyme herb extract 120mg (expectorant, spasmolytic) and marshmallow root extract 830mg (demulcent).
Dose: 15ml up to 5 times daily. Maximum 75ml in 24 hours. Take direct or diluted in warm water.
Non-drowsy, alcohol-free. Contains sugar (or xylitol in sugar-free version) and paraben preservatives.
Not for children under 12 (Bronchostop Junior available), not in pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice.
Active ingredients in Bronchostop Cough Syrup
Thyme herb extract 120mg per 15ml (240mg per adult dose is not applicable, single dose is 15ml)
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris L. and Thymus zygis L.) is a well-known culinary and medicinal herb. Firstly, thyme has been used for coughs and respiratory complaints in traditional European medicine for centuries.
Also, the dry extract in Bronchostop is prepared from thyme herb (leaves and flowering tops) using water as the extraction solvent. Firstly, the drug-extract ratio (DER) is 7-13:1.
However, thyme's active constituents include essential oil components (thymol, carvacrol), flavonoids, and phenolic acids. Firstly, these are thought to contribute to expectorant, mild antispasmodic, and antimicrobial effects.
Furthermore, thyme is on the European Medicines Agency (EMA) HMPC monograph list, which supports its traditional use for cough associated with cold.
Marshmallow root extract 830mg per 15ml
Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis L.) is a traditional demulcent herb. Firstly, it has been used for irritated throat and mucous membranes for centuries in European traditional medicine.
Also, the liquid extract in Bronchostop is prepared from marshmallow root using water as the extraction solvent. Firstly, the DER is 1:12-14.
However, marshmallow root's main active constituent is mucilage polysaccharides. Firstly, these form a soothing coating over the mucous membranes of the throat when the syrup is swallowed.
Furthermore, marshmallow root is also on the EMA HMPC monograph list for its traditional use in dry cough and mild inflammation of the throat.
How the two actives work together
Thyme addresses the productive component of a cough. Firstly, it helps loosen mucus and makes cough more effective at clearing phlegm.
Also, marshmallow root addresses the irritation component of a cough. Firstly, it forms a soothing film over the throat's mucous membranes.
However, this combined action targets both features often present in a cough. Firstly, a chesty cough may also have irritation; a dry cough may still have some mucus.
What is Bronchostop Cough Syrup for?
Dry, tickly, and irritating coughs
Bronchostop is registered for the relief of coughs, including dry, tickly, and irritating coughs. Firstly, marshmallow root's demulcent action soothes the throat irritation that drives these coughs.
Also, some dry coughs are the tail end of a cold or flu, or from post-nasal drip. Firstly, symptomatic relief can help while the underlying trigger settles.
Chesty coughs
Bronchostop is also registered for the relief of chesty coughs. Firstly, thyme's expectorant action helps loosen mucus, making it easier to cough up.
However, if the chesty cough is very productive with large amounts of coloured phlegm, medical assessment may be needed.
Catarrh
Bronchostop is registered for the relief of catarrh (excessive mucus in the airways). Firstly, this often accompanies coughs and colds.
Also, thyme and marshmallow root work together to thin mucus and soothe the associated throat irritation.
Cough with cold or flu
Bronchostop can be used for cough associated with cold and flu. Firstly, it can be combined with plain paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain and fever.
However, if you have multiple cold and flu symptoms (headache, congestion, fever), a combined product (Beechams All in One, Lemsip Max) may be more convenient.
What Bronchostop isn't for
Bronchostop is not for chronic cough (lasting more than 3 weeks). Firstly, chronic cough needs medical assessment to identify the underlying cause.
Also, it is not for cough caused by asthma, COPD, or other chronic lung conditions. Firstly, these need proper medical management.
However, it is not for children under 12 (Bronchostop Junior exists for 1-12). Firstly, it is not for use in pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice.
How does Bronchostop Cough Syrup work?
Marshmallow root's demulcent action
The mucilage polysaccharides in marshmallow root swell in contact with water. Firstly, this creates a viscous, jelly-like layer.
Also, when swallowed as a syrup, this layer coats the mucous membranes of the throat and upper airways.
However, this soothing film reduces irritation from cough and mild inflammation. Firstly, this reduces the urge to cough from a dry, tickly throat.
Thyme's expectorant and antispasmodic action
Thyme's essential oil components (thymol, carvacrol) are thought to have several effects. Firstly, they may thin airway mucus and support ciliary clearance.
Also, thyme has traditional use as a mild antispasmodic. Firstly, this may help reduce the intensity of coughing spasms.
However, the exact mechanisms of thyme's cough action are not fully characterised. Traditional use supports its role, though modern clinical trials are limited.
Combined benefits
Together, marshmallow root and thyme address both the irritation and mucus components of a cough. Firstly, this dual action is Bronchostop's distinctive feature.
However, effects build over multiple doses. Firstly, regular dosing through the day works better than single doses.
Onset of action
Marshmallow root's soothing effect on the throat starts within minutes. Firstly, this is a direct local action from the coating effect.
Also, thyme's expectorant effect builds up over the first few doses.
Treatment dosage for Bronchostop Cough Syrup
At a glance
Age: adults and adolescents 12 years and over
Dose per intake: 15ml (one tablespoon)
Frequency: up to 5 times daily
Maximum: 75ml in 24 hours
Interval: approximately 4 hours between doses
Duration: up to 7 days without medical advice
Administration: measure with cup provided; take direct or diluted in a small amount of warm water
Adult and adolescent (12+) dose
Take 15ml (one tablespoon) up to 5 times daily. Firstly, this delivers 120mg thyme herb extract and 830mg marshmallow root extract per dose.
Also, do not exceed 5 doses (75ml) in any 24-hour period.
However, leave approximately 4 hours between doses.
Furthermore, use for the shortest time needed.
Children under 12
Bronchostop Cough Syrup is not for children under 12. Firstly, Bronchostop Junior is a separate product designed for children aged 1-12.
Also, ask a pharmacist for advice on age-appropriate cough options for younger children.
Elderly patients
No specific dose reduction is required in adults over 60. Firstly, standard dosing applies.
However, be aware of the sugar content if you have diabetes, or the xylitol content in the sugar-free version.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Bronchostop is not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Firstly, there is insufficient traditional or clinical data on safety in these situations.
However, for a cough in pregnancy, simple linctus, warm honey and lemon in water, or steam inhalation are usually preferred. Ask your midwife, GP, or pharmacist.
Duration limits
Do not take Bronchostop for more than 7 days without medical advice. Firstly, persistent cough needs medical assessment.
Also, a cough lasting more than 3 weeks is considered chronic and needs proper diagnosis.
How to take Bronchostop Cough Syrup
Standard adult dose
Adults and adolescents 12 and over take 15ml (one tablespoon) up to 5 times daily. Firstly, use the measuring cup provided with the pack for accurate dosing.
Also, leave approximately 4 hours between doses.
Direct or diluted
Bronchostop can be taken direct from the cup. Firstly, some people find the raspberry flavour acceptable direct.
Also, if you prefer, dilute the 15ml dose in a small amount of warm water. This can make it easier to swallow and adds a warming, soothing effect.
Timing during the day
Space doses through waking hours. Firstly, morning, mid-morning, lunchtime, afternoon, and evening doses spread the effect over the day.
However, take a dose about 30-60 minutes before bedtime if cough is disturbing sleep.
With or without food
Bronchostop can be taken with or without food. Firstly, food does not significantly affect its action.
However, note that marshmallow root may form a coating along the digestive tract that could slow absorption of other oral medicines. Firstly, take other medicines at least 30 minutes before Bronchostop.
How quickly it works
Marshmallow root's soothing effect on the throat starts within minutes. Firstly, this is a direct local action.
Also, thyme's expectorant effect builds up over the first few doses. Regular dosing through the day works better than single doses.
Duration of use
Use for the shortest time needed. Firstly, most acute coughs improve within 5-7 days.
Also, if cough persists beyond 7 days or worsens, consult your GP or pharmacist.
Missed doses and stopping
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Firstly, do not double up.
Also, you can stop the syrup whenever your cough has resolved. There is no need to taper.
Separating from other medicines
Marshmallow root can slow the absorption of other oral medicines taken at the same time. Firstly, take other medicines at least 30 minutes before Bronchostop.
However, this is a theoretical concern and may not affect most medicines significantly. Ask a pharmacist if you take other regular medication.
Do not exceed the stated dose
Do not take more than 5 doses (75ml) in 24 hours. Firstly, exceeding the dose does not improve effect but may cause mild stomach upset.
Warnings and precautions for Bronchostop Cough Syrup
Cough persisting or with red flag symptoms
Above all, if cough persists for more than 7 days, tends to recur, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache, consult a doctor. Firstly, these can indicate a more serious underlying condition.
Also, a cough lasting more than 3 weeks is considered chronic and needs proper medical assessment.
Hypersensitivity
Do not use if allergic to thyme, marshmallow root, or other plants in the Lamiaceae (mint) or Malvaceae (mallow) families.
However, if you develop rash, itching, facial swelling, or breathing difficulty after taking the syrup, stop and seek medical advice (call 999 for severe symptoms).
Pregnancy (not recommended)
Bronchostop is not recommended in pregnancy. Firstly, there is insufficient data on herbal cough medicines in pregnant women.
However, for a cough in pregnancy, simple linctus, warm honey and lemon in water, or steam inhalation are usually preferred. Ask your midwife, GP, or pharmacist.
Breastfeeding (not recommended)
Bronchostop is not recommended in breastfeeding. Firstly, there is insufficient data on herbal cough medicines during breastfeeding.
Children under 12
Bronchostop is not for children under 12. Firstly, Bronchostop Junior is a separate product designed for children aged 1-12.
Diabetes and sugar content
The standard formulation contains sucrose, glucose, and fructose. Firstly, factor this into carbohydrate intake if you have diabetes.
However, sugar-free versions (containing xylitol) may be available. Ask a pharmacist about current formulations.
Xylitol warning (sugar-free version)
The sugar-free version contains xylitol. Firstly, this can cause mild laxative effects if very large amounts are consumed.
Also, xylitol is toxic to dogs. Firstly, keep out of reach of pets and dispose of used bottles safely.
Paraben preservatives
Bronchostop contains methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218) and propyl parahydroxybenzoate (E216) as preservatives. Firstly, these can rarely cause allergic reactions (sometimes delayed).
However, if you have known paraben allergy, avoid Bronchostop.
Alcohol content
Bronchostop is alcohol-free. Firstly, this suits those avoiding alcohol for religious, medical, or personal reasons (including pregnancy, recovery from alcohol dependence, or certain medicines).
Driving and machinery
Bronchostop does not usually affect ability to drive or use machinery. Firstly, it is non-drowsy.
Do not exceed the stated dose
Do not take more than 5 doses (75ml) in 24 hours. Firstly, exceeding the dose does not improve effect but may cause mild stomach upset.
Duration of use (short-term only)
Do not take this medicine for more than 7 days without medical advice. Firstly, ongoing cough needs medical assessment.
Side effects of Bronchostop Cough Syrup
Common and less common side effects
Bronchostop is generally well tolerated at recommended doses. Firstly, uncommon side effects include mild stomach upset, nausea, or mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
Also, allergic reactions to the herbal actives or excipients (parabens) are possible but uncommon.
Rare but significant side effects
Allergic reactions are rare but reported. Firstly, symptoms include rash, itching, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing.
However, if you develop these symptoms, stop taking the syrup and seek urgent medical help. Call 999 for severe symptoms.
Serious side effects requiring urgent help
Above all, seek urgent medical help for signs of severe allergic reaction (facial or throat swelling, breathing difficulty, widespread rash). Call 999.
Also, seek urgent help for severe skin reactions with blistering or peeling (very rare).
Yellow Card reporting
Anyone can report a suspected side effect to any medicine (including traditional herbal medicines) via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme: https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/
Drug interactions with Bronchostop Cough Syrup
Other oral medicines (theoretical absorption delay)
Marshmallow root may form a coating along the digestive tract that could slow the absorption of other oral medicines. Firstly, take other medicines at least 30 minutes before Bronchostop.
However, this is a theoretical interaction and may not affect most medicines significantly.
Cough suppressants (avoid combining)
Do not combine Bronchostop with a strong cough suppressant (dextromethorphan, pholcodine, codeine linctus) without pharmacist advice. Firstly, the thyme component may act as a mild expectorant, which works against pure cough suppression.
Paracetamol and ibuprofen (compatible)
Plain paracetamol or ibuprofen can usually be taken alongside Bronchostop for pain or fever from cold or flu. Firstly, no direct interaction is expected.
However, do not take a combined cold and flu product that also contains active ingredients you may not need.
Decongestants (compatible)
Plain decongestants (Sudafed for adults, saline nasal spray for others) can usually be used alongside Bronchostop. Firstly, no direct interaction is expected.
Other herbal medicines
Tell your pharmacist about all herbal medicines and supplements you take. Firstly, herbal combinations can occasionally interact.
Alcohol
Bronchostop is alcohol-free. Firstly, moderate alcohol intake elsewhere is unlikely to cause a direct interaction.
However, avoid alcohol if you are recovering from a cold or flu, as alcohol can worsen dehydration.
Frequently asked questions about Bronchostop Cough Syrup
What kind of cough is Bronchostop for?
Bronchostop is for both dry (tickly) and chesty (productive) coughs. Firstly, this dual action is its distinctive feature.
Also, it can be used for catarrh (excessive mucus).
How quickly does Bronchostop work?
Marshmallow root's soothing effect on the throat starts within minutes. Firstly, this is a direct local action.
However, thyme's expectorant effect builds up over the first few doses. Regular dosing through the day works better than single doses.
How much should I take?
Adults and adolescents 12+: 15ml (one tablespoon) up to 5 times daily. Firstly, do not exceed 75ml in 24 hours.
However, use for the shortest time needed.
Can I dilute Bronchostop in water?
Yes. Firstly, some people prefer to dilute the 15ml dose in a small amount of warm water. This can make it easier to swallow and adds a warming, soothing effect.
Can I take Bronchostop with paracetamol?
Yes, generally. Firstly, plain paracetamol has no direct interaction with Bronchostop's herbal ingredients.
Can I take Bronchostop with ibuprofen?
Yes, generally. Firstly, plain ibuprofen has no direct interaction with Bronchostop's herbal ingredients.
Can I take Bronchostop with other cough medicines?
Ask a pharmacist first. Firstly, do not combine with strong cough suppressants (dextromethorphan, pholcodine, codeine) as they work against Bronchostop's mild expectorant effect.
Can children take Bronchostop?
Only adolescents aged 12 and over. Firstly, Bronchostop Junior is a separate product for children aged 1-12.
Can I take Bronchostop in pregnancy?
Not without medical advice. Firstly, Bronchostop is not recommended in pregnancy.
However, for a cough in pregnancy, simple linctus or warm honey and lemon in water are usually preferred.
Can I take Bronchostop while breastfeeding?
Not without medical advice. Firstly, Bronchostop is not recommended in breastfeeding.
Will Bronchostop make me drowsy?
No. Firstly, Bronchostop contains no antihistamine or opioid cough suppressant.
Also, it is non-drowsy and suitable for daytime use.
Does Bronchostop contain alcohol?
No. Firstly, Bronchostop is alcohol-free. This makes it suitable for those avoiding alcohol for religious, medical, or personal reasons.
Does Bronchostop contain sugar?
The standard formulation contains sucrose, glucose, and fructose. Firstly, factor this into carbohydrate intake if you have diabetes.
However, a sugar-free version containing xylitol may be available. Ask a pharmacist about current formulations.
Can I give Bronchostop sugar-free version to my dog?
No. Firstly, xylitol in the sugar-free version is toxic to dogs. Keep all Bronchostop products out of reach of pets.
Is Bronchostop safe for people with paraben allergy?
No. Firstly, Bronchostop contains methyl and propyl parahydroxybenzoate as preservatives. Avoid if you have known paraben allergy.
How long can I take Bronchostop for?
Do not take for more than 7 days without medical advice. Firstly, persistent cough needs medical assessment.
What's the difference between Bronchostop Cough Syrup and Bronchostop Pastilles?
Both are in the Bronchostop range. Firstly, the syrup contains both thyme and marshmallow root; the pastilles contain thyme only (no marshmallow root).
However, the pastilles are more portable. The syrup has the fuller dual herbal action.
Is Bronchostop a licensed medicine?
Bronchostop holds a Traditional Herbal Registration (THR) from the MHRA. Firstly, THR products meet MHRA quality and safety standards, but their efficacy is based on traditional use rather than clinical trials required for licensed medicines like paracetamol.
Do I need a prescription for Bronchostop from Courier Pharmacy?
No. Firstly, Bronchostop is a general sale list (GSL) traditional herbal medicine. It is available without a prescription.
However, our pharmacy team is available for advice if you have any questions about suitability.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This information is for education only and isn't a substitute for personal medical advice. Always follow the packaging directions, and ask your pharmacist or GP if you're unsure whether Bronchostop Cough Syrup is right for your cough. Bronchostop is a traditional herbal medicinal product used for the relief of coughs, based on traditional use only.
