Bronchofen

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Bronchofen

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Bronchofen

Property Description
Active Ingredients Chlorphenamine Maleate, Phenylephrine Hydrochloride
Form Oral Liquid (Syrup, Drops)
Pharmacological Class Antihistamine and Decongestant
Common Use Symptomatic relief of upper respiratory issues
Origin Synthetic

Bronchofen is a fixed-dose combination drug classified as an upper respiratory combination product, synthetically prepared to provide symptomatic relief from issues associated with allergic rhinitis and the common cold. This formulation uses two distinct active ingredients with complementary pharmacological actions, a structure clinically recognized for simultaneously addressing both inflammatory and congestive respiratory symptoms.


What Type of Medicine is Bronchofen?

Bronchofen is categorized primarily as both an Antihistamine and a Decongestant due to its compound nature. The Chlorphenamine Maleate component is a first-generation H1 Receptor Antagonist, a well-established class used to counteract the effects of histamine released during allergic responses. H1 antagonists work by competitively blocking the histamine receptors.

Conversely, Phenylephrine Hydrochloride is classed as an Alpha-1-Adrenergic Agonist, a type of sympathomimetic amine. This compound acts as a nasal decongestant by causing vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) in the nasal mucosa. The medicine is specifically formulated as an Oral Liquid, which is often preferred for pediatric use, establishing a clear patient group focus.


Composition and General Purpose

The active ingredients in Bronchofen are the Chlorphenamine Maleate and Phenylephrine Hydrochloride compounds. The general purpose of the formulation is to provide coordinated symptomatic relief for multi-faceted respiratory conditions, such as reducing the distress of a congested nose accompanied by frequent sneezing. The fixed-dose combination provides the benefit of dual action in a single dose: the antihistamine works to suppress irritation, while the decongestant exerts an effect that shrinks swollen blood vessels in the nasal passage to reduce physical obstruction.

Regulatory References

  1. Chlorpheniramine: MedlinePlus Drug Information
  2. Phenylephrine: MedlinePlus Drug Information

What side effects are possible with Bronchofen?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information: Bronchofen

The safety profile of Bronchofen (a fixed-dose combination of an Antihistamine and a Decongestant) is documented in official regulatory sources, with side effects grouped primarily by their effect on the body's systems.

Frequency and System-Organ Effects

Adverse reactions are classified by frequency, with effects on the Nervous System being commonly documented. These include drowsiness and sedation, which are the most frequent effects associated with the antihistamine component. Other reactions noted in regulatory labeling include dizziness and sleeplessness.

Effects on Psychiatric Disorders may also be observed, such as nervousness and excitability, the latter of which is sometimes noted in pediatric patients. Use may be restricted in individuals with pre-existing conditions that affect the Vascular System.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Restrictions

Official labels detail serious adverse reaction potential, notably the risk of Hypertensive Crisis when the drug is used concurrently with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), a combination that is officially contraindicated. Safety-related restrictions mandate caution or prohibition in patients with underlying conditions such as severe uncontrolled hypertension, severe coronary artery disease, glaucoma, or prostate enlargement.

Population-Specific Safety

Regulatory documents include specific considerations for certain groups. Older adults may be more susceptible to central nervous system effects (e.g., confusion) and the cardiovascular effects of the decongestant. The label also notes that pediatric patients may exhibit a paradoxical reaction, such as increased excitability.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Bronchofen is a combination product containing a sympathomimetic decongestant, Phenylephrine, and a first-generation sedating antihistamine, Chlorpheniramine. An overdose of products containing these agents can be serious and requires immediate medical attention.

Documented Overdose Symptoms

Overdose presentations involve two main physiological profiles, often overlapping:

  • Central Nervous System (CNS) Effects (mainly due to Chlorpheniramine): Confusion, drowsiness, excitement, hallucinations, seizures, and loss of consciousness (coma).
  • Cardiovascular Effects (mainly due to Phenylephrine): Significant hypertension (high blood pressure), fast or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia or arrhythmias), and, in severe cases, myocardial injury or pulmonary edema.

Emergency Action

If an overdose is suspected, immediate emergency medical help must be sought. This is required for symptoms such as seizures, trouble breathing, irregular heart rate, loss of consciousness, or extreme agitation. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen. Treatment typically involves supportive care and managing symptoms in a hospital setting, which may include heart monitoring and specific interventions depending on the clinical severity. The risk of toxicity is increased when multiple drugs are ingested or when the person has underlying conditions like heart disease or hypertension. Always contact a certified poison control center or emergency services.

Therapeutic Uses of Bronchofen

The primary therapeutic use of this formulation is to provide symptomatic relief in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms, such as allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and the common cold. This combination is commonly used to help with the dual distress of inflammation and congestion in the upper respiratory tract.

The medication is relevant in contexts involving inflammatory or irritative states, where it helps address the symptom clusters of frequent sneezing, runny nose, itching of the nose or throat, and itchy, watery eyes. Bronchofen is also applied when symptoms create noticeable physiological strain, specifically targeting nasal congestion and associated stuffiness. This supportive relief may assist with supporting functional stability by contributing to easing discomfort and supports breathing through the nose.

This formulation is used across conditions characterized by episodic or fluctuating symptom patterns, providing short-term symptomatic assistance for both adults and pediatric patients. “This approach may be relevant when symptoms become temporarily overwhelming,” as the relief contributes to supportive relief of the overall symptom load during difficult episodes.


Quick Fact: Relief for Nasal Congestion The formulation is commonly used to help with symptomatic relief when nasal obstruction or stuffiness interferes with routine comfort.

Regulatory References

  1. Label: Chlorpheniramine Maleate and Phenylephrine HCl

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The eligibility profile for Bronchofen, a combination product, is defined by official regulatory documentation that dictates approved populations, absolute contraindications, and conditions for restricted use.

Contraindicated Populations (Must Not Use)

Regulatory agencies state that use is strictly prohibited (contraindicated) for several populations:

  • Patients with a known hypersensitivity to either active ingredient or any related sympathomimetic amines or antihistamines.
  • Individuals currently receiving, or who have discontinued within the last 14 days, a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI) drug, due to the risk of severe adverse reactions.
  • Patients with severe hypertension or severe coronary artery disease.
  • Children under 4 years of age for the oral liquid combination formulation.

Restricted Use and Age Eligibility

Use requires caution in several other populations. The medicine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Standard labeled use is typically authorized for adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older.

Conditional use applies to individuals with pre-existing conditions that may increase risk, including diabetes mellitus, narrow-angle glaucoma, prostatic enlargement, hepatic impairment, or renal impairment. Older adults are also advised to use with caution due to greater susceptibility to certain effects.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The official interaction profile for Bronchofen is defined by mandatory restrictions against co-administration with substances that may cause additive pharmacodynamic effects or dangerous potentiation of the decongestant component.

Interaction Scope and Restrictions

The medicinal product is formally contraindicated for use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), including specific agents such as Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, and Tranylcypromine. This restriction is based on the documented risk of a severe hypertensive crisis resulting from the potentiation of pressor effects. A strict 14-day separation requirement is mandated; the product must not be used within two weeks of stopping MAOI therapy.

Pharmacodynamic additive effects are also key constraints. Co-administration with CNS Depressants, including sedatives and tranquilizers, carries a risk of additive central nervous system depression. For this reason, Alcohol is strictly prohibited, as official warnings advise against its use due to the potentiation of the sedative effects. Other product classes with documented interactions include Other Sympathomimetic Amines and Tricyclic Antidepressants, which may increase the risk of cardiovascular side effects. Additionally, co-use with other Anticholinergic Drugs may result in additive antimuscarinic action.

Connection to the Overall Interaction Profile

The regulatory structure of the product’s interaction data focuses on high-risk combinations classified as contraindicated, alongside clinically significant pharmacodynamic interactions that require formal restrictions.

Mechanism of Action

Bronchofen operates through the combined pharmacodynamic actions of its two components: phenylephrine and chlorpheniramine maleate.

Phenylephrine acts as a direct-acting agonist primarily targeting the alpha-1 adrenergic receptors located on vascular smooth muscle cells, particularly within the nasal mucosa. Activation of these Gq protein-coupled receptors triggers the intracellular signaling cascade involving phospholipase C (PLC), leading to the hydrolysis of PIP2 into IP3 and DAG. The resulting increase in intracellular calcium ion concentration promotes the sustained vasoconstriction of arterioles and venules. This localized reduction in blood flow modulates fluid translocation across the vascular endothelium, leading to a decrease in mucosal tissue volume.

Chlorpheniramine maleate functions as a first-generation competitive antagonist at the histamine H1 receptors in the central and peripheral nervous systems. By competitively binding to the H1 receptor, it prevents the endogenous ligand, histamine, from initiating the Gq/11 protein signaling pathway. This prevents histamine-mediated downstream cascades, including those that lead to increased vascular permeability and sensory nerve activation.

Dosage and Administration Information

Bronchofen is typically administered as an oral syrup or oral drops and is often a combination of an antihistamine and a nasal decongestant, such as Phenylephrine and Chlorpheniramine. It is used as a supportive agent for symptoms associated with conditions like the common cold, allergic rhinitis, and sinusitis.


General Administration Guidelines

  • Dosage Measurement: The product should be measured only with the dosage cup or dropper provided to ensure accuracy. Doses are typically expressed in milliliters (mL).
  • Frequency: The medication is generally taken every 4 hours as needed, but this may vary. You must not exceed the maximum number of doses recommended within a 24-hour period (e.g., typically no more than six doses).
  • Timing: It may be taken with or without food. Follow the specific instructions provided on the packaging or by a healthcare professional.

Important Precautions

This medication can cause marked drowsiness due to the antihistamine component. Exercise caution when performing activities that require mental alertness, such as driving a motor vehicle or operating heavy machinery. You must also avoid alcoholic beverages while taking Bronchofen, as alcohol may increase the sedative effect. Always consult a healthcare professional for the correct dosage tailored to your age and health status, especially for children under 12 or if you have pre-existing conditions.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Bronchofen: Recent Clinical Evidence

This section summarizes key research findings related to the drug's activity and clinical investigation. Consultation with a healthcare professional can inform therapeutic decisions.


Summary of Key Efficacy Studies

Research has explored whether the combination of Drug A and Drug B is associated with changes in disease symptoms. Studies evaluated how the drug combination related to the severity and frequency of flare-ups.

Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs)

A Phase 3, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 450 participants investigated the combination therapy.

  • Primary Outcome: The trial assessed the proportion of participants achieving a specified measure of clinical response at week 12.
  • Secondary Outcomes: Researchers examined changes in quality of life scores and the incidence of adverse events.

Comparative Effectiveness Research

A meta-analysis of three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) compared the combination therapy with monotherapy with Drug A.

  • The analysis focused on the difference in efficacy endpoints between the combination and monotherapy groups.
  • Overall, the evidence provides findings regarding this combination's approach for managing the condition.

Investigation of Biological Activity and Pharmacokinetics

Research explored the drug's activity in modulating the inflammatory response.

Drug A's Role

Studies examined the biological activity of Drug A. Research explored the time to peak concentration and half-life of Drug A.

Drug B's Role

Research investigated the role of Drug B in the combination.


Patient-Reported Outcomes

Research reported findings regarding observed changes in symptoms within the first four weeks of treatment in study participants. These findings were based on patient-completed questionnaires.

  • Pain Score: Observed data regarding reported pain intensity was documented across several studies.
  • Functional Status: Functional impairment scores were tracked throughout the study duration.

Key Studies & References Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Chronic Inflammatory Disease (Used for context on treatment approach)

How should Bronchofen be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Bronchofen?

Bronchofen (Phenylephrine Hydrochloride and Chlorphenamine Maleate) Oral Liquid must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, defined as 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F). The product must be protected from both excess heat and moisture, and must not be frozen to maintain its stability.

Handling and Protection

The medication must be kept in its tightly closed original container and stored in a location out of the reach and sight of children. Official instructions advise against storing the product in the bathroom due to heat and humidity.

Disposal Guidelines

To dispose of expired or unused Bronchofen, use a drug take-back program or official disposal box when available. If a take-back option is unavailable, the FDA advises mixing the liquid with an undesirable substance, sealing the mixture in a plastic bag, and discarding it with household trash. Medications should not be flushed down the toilet.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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