Description:

Benylin Wet Cough Menthol Syrup is a non-drowsy oral syrup formulated to relieve chesty (productive/wet) coughs and associated cold symptoms. It contains guaifenesin as the main active ingredient, which acts as an expectorant to loosen and thin mucus/phlegm in the chest, making it easier to cough up. The menthol provides a soothing, cooling sensation for throat and chest comfort. It is indicated for alleviation of cough with mucus/congestion, often due to colds, flu, or minor respiratory issues. It is for adults and adolescents (typically 12+ years).

Prescription: Over-the-counter (OTC). No prescription required; freely available in pharmacies and licensed chemical shops in Ghana and similar markets (e.g., listed on sites like Caplet Cares, HubPharm Africa, and local outlets).

Therapeutic Category:

Cough and cold preparation / Expectorant (for relief of productive/chesty coughs and mucus congestion; Antitussives and Expectorants in some classifications).

Active Ingredients/Composition: Each 10 ml syrup contains:

• Guaifenesin 200 mg (expectorant to loosen and thin mucus). Other ingredients (excipients with known effects): Sugar (granulated 2.0 g), glucose liquid (5.0 ml), alcohol (9.5% v/v in some formulations), glycerine, citric acid, sodium benzoate (preservative 0.2% m/v), peppermint-caramel flavor (menthol for soothing), and other flavorants/colorants (may vary slightly by market; some versions are alcohol-free or sugar-free in modern lines).

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant: Menthol-flavored wet/chesty cough relief (triple action implied in some promotions: loosen mucus, soothe chest, relieve cough; 200 ml bottle common, but queried as 200ml; “verling slim” likely local spelling for “verlig slym” or light phlegm variant).

Consume Type:

Oral (liquid syrup; measured with spoon/cup; shake well before use).

Directions/Usage: Adults and children over 12 years: 10 ml to 20 ml (2-4 medicine measures/teaspoons) every 4 hours as needed (max 4 doses per day). Take orally; for short-term use (e.g., during cold symptoms). Do not exceed recommended dose. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor. Shake bottle well. Not for children under 12 years (use paediatric variants if needed).

Common Side Effects:

• Mild gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort)
• Headache or dizziness
• Rare: Allergic reactions (rash, itching), increased mucus initially (as expectorant works)
• Generally well-tolerated; side effects uncommon at recommended doses.

Package Type:

Plastic bottle of 200 ml (with measuring cup/spoon; child-resistant cap; often amber or clear with label; in carton with product info).

Storage Advice: Store in a cool place (at or below 25-30°C), away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep tightly closed. Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• For adults and adolescents 12+ years only; consult doctor for children or if cough persists >5-7 days, worsens, or includes fever/rash/breathing difficulty (may indicate infection).
• Contains alcohol (9.5% v/v in some; check label) – caution in alcohol-sensitive individuals.
• Contains sugar/glucose – take into account in diabetes.
• Do not use if allergic to ingredients.
• Pregnancy/lactation: Consult doctor (guaifenesin considered unsafe in acute porphyria; limited data).
• Avoid combining with other cough/cold meds without advice.
• Seek medical help for severe side effects or no improvement.

Product Substitutes: Other guaifenesin-based wet/chesty cough syrups in Ghana: Benylin Mucus Cough variants, Ascoril, Diphex Chesty, Amcof Chesty, or generics with guaifenesin ± menthol (e.g., from Kinapharma or Dannex). For menthol soothing: Simple linctus or herbal options. Consult pharmacist for non-drowsy expectorant matches.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Johnson & Johnson (Pty) Ltd / Kenvue (formerly J&J Consumer Health; Benylin range now under Kenvue). Marketed/distributed in Ghana/Africa via local importers or partners (e.g., J&J West Africa or distributors).

Country of Origin:

South Africa.