I am currently traveling in Mexico and I am bothered by a cough and nasal congestion. I tried to relieve it with the only syrup available at my hotel, Bisolvon (Bromhexine). Can I use it again if my symptoms persist?

Bromhexine is a mucolytic agent, that is to say that it facilitates the expectoration of the mucus by making it more liquid. The logic is to take it when the cough is "fatty", with a lot of secretions. Be aware, however, that mucolytics are of little use in most cases. Instead, patients get cough relief from the sugar content of the syrup, which causes saliva production and reduces throat irritation.

That being said, if you are not pregnant or breastfeeding, and considering that the bottle is purchased and in your possession, you may want to use it again if you felt some relief the first time you took it. Drinking plenty of water is also very important, to help make your secretions more liquid. Finally, don't take Advil if you don't have a fever or any pain.

Does this answer your question?

Have a nice day,

Alexandre Chagnon, pharmacist