Pulmoserum

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Pulmoserum

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

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 Pulmoserum

Property Description
Active Ingredients Codeine, Guaiacol
Form Solution buvable (Oral solution/Syrup)
Pharmacological Class Opioid Antitussive Combination
General Purpose Symptomatic relief of non-productive cough
Origin Derived (Codeine processed from natural source; Guaiacol synthetic)

What Type of Medication is Pulmoserum?

Pulmoserum is a defined combination drug entity classified as an opioid antitussive combination, used for the symptomatic management of cough. This formulation is distinctive because it pairs a centrally acting suppressant with an expectorant, a composition clinically recognized for addressing both the reflex and the associated respiratory condition simultaneously. The medication is designed as a solution buvable, a liquid preparation intended for the oral route of administration, and is typically reserved for adult use due to its opioid content.

Composition: Codeine, Guaiacol, and Origin

The two core active ingredients in Pulmoserum are the cough suppressant Codeine and the expectorant Guaiacol. Codeine is a processed opioid alkaloid with a primary mechanism of central cough suppression. Guaiacol is a distinct, synthetic phenol derivative included for its traditional role in managing respiratory secretions. This specific combination of Codeine and Guaiacol distinguishes Pulmoserum from other similar formulations. These active compounds are dissolved in an aqueous base/vehicle, which contains sweeteners and a small percentage of alcohol (ethanol).

General Purpose: Symptomatic Cough Relief

Pulmoserum’s general purpose is to provide focused symptomatic relief for the non-productive, bothersome cough—a type of persistent irritation that is not effectively expelling mucus. The benefit is delivered through the dual action: Codeine suppresses the central cough reflex, reducing the insistent urge to cough, which is particularly useful when rest is necessary. Guaiacol is included for its traditional role as an expectorant, aiming to help thin and facilitate the movement of secretions within the respiratory passages, offering a combined strategy for improved respiratory comfort.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH Drug Information Portal
  2. FDA UNII for Guaiacol
  3. Base de Données Publique des Médicaments (French National Drug Register)

What side effects are possible with Pulmoserum?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of this opioid antitussive combination is characterized by adverse reactions officially documented and classified by regulatory authorities, primarily reflecting the action of the Codeine component.

Official Adverse Reactions and System-Organ Classes

Adverse effects are grouped by frequency and the body system affected, consistent with standard regulatory labeling.

Classification System-Organ Class Documented Side Effects
Common Nervous System Disorders Drowsiness, Sedation, Dizziness, Light-headedness
Common Gastrointestinal Disorders Nausea, Vomiting, Constipation
Rare Immune System Disorders Anaphylactic reactions

The most serious adverse reaction documented in official labeling is life-threatening respiratory depression, which is directly related to the central opioid action. The risk of addiction, abuse, and misuse is also a key safety constraint noted across regulatory documents for Codeine-containing products.

Population-Specific Safety Considerations

Regulatory documents include explicit safety statements for specific patient populations. The medicine is contraindicated for children younger than 12 years of age due to heightened risk of respiratory complications. Older adults are noted to have increased susceptibility to central nervous system effects, such as sedation. Additionally, caution is noted for patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment due to the potential for altered drug metabolism and accumulation.

Exposure-Related Safety Patterns

The risk of respiratory depression is documented as occurring most frequently upon the initiation of therapy or following a dosage increase. Furthermore, the potential for opioid dependence is associated with repeated administration and prolonged use.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Pulmoserum contains codeine, an opioid antitussive, and an overdose can be a medical emergency. Taking more than the prescribed dosage can lead to serious toxicity, particularly due to the central nervous system and respiratory depressant effects of codeine.

Signs of an overdose may include severe drowsiness, confusion, slow or shallow breathing (respiratory depression), cold and clammy skin, blue discoloration of the lips and fingernails (cyanosis), and extremely small pupils. In severe cases, it can lead to coma, seizures, and respiratory failure, which can be fatal. Concurrent ingestion of alcohol or other central nervous system depressants significantly increases the risk and severity of overdose.

If you suspect an overdose on Pulmoserum, or if any of the severe symptoms listed above occur, you must seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Symptom Severity Action to Take
Mild to Moderate (e.g., unusual drowsiness, mild confusion) Contact a poison control center or healthcare professional for advice immediately.
Severe (e.g., slow/shallow breathing, loss of consciousness, blue skin/lips) Call your local emergency services (e.g., 911 or 112) immediately.

If possible, take the medication packaging with you to the emergency service. Treatment involves supportive care and may include the administration of naloxone, an opioid antagonist, to reverse the effects of codeine.

Therapeutic Uses of Pulmoserum

What Pulmoserum Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Pulmoserum is commonly used for the symptomatic management of cough symptoms related to acute respiratory conditions and is relevant for managing two symptom axes.

This medication is applied in situations involving certain distressing symptoms, primarily targeting the dry, irritating cough that does not produce mucus effectively. It is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes, such as those associated with the common cold, influenza, or conditions associated with bronchial irritation. The medication is used to manage the urge to cough, which contributes to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms.

The medication is relevant in contexts involving heightened systemic burden, offering crucial support when the cough significantly interferes with the patient's ability to rest. As a patient might seek relief from a bothersome cough, it can be summarized: “The medication is considered relevant for managing episodes that become disruptive and require short-term symptomatic assistance.” Furthermore, this aspect of the formulation assists with managing thick or viscous respiratory secretions, contributing to easing the overall symptom load associated with acute irritative states.

Therapeutic Summary
Symptom Focus: Symptomatic relief of non-productive cough, especially when persistent.
General Therapeutic Benefit: Supports rest and helps ease the overall symptom load.
Associated Conditions: Acute episodes like colds and influenza.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Eligibility and Contraindications for Pulmoserum

Regulatory authorities strictly define who can and cannot use Pulmoserum (Codeine/Guaiacol), primarily due to the risks associated with the Codeine component.

Absolute Contraindications

Use is strictly forbidden in specific patient populations, as defined by official labeling:

  • All children under 12 years of age for any use.
  • Breastfeeding mothers due to the risk of exposing the infant to morphine via breast milk.
  • Patients known to be CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolizers.
  • Patients with significant respiratory depression, acute or severe bronchial asthma, or gastrointestinal obstruction (e.g., paralytic ileus).
  • Pediatric patients under 18 years of age following tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy.

Restricted and Conditional Use

Use is not recommended or requires strict caution in other groups:

  • Adolescents (12 to 18 years) with specific risk factors for respiratory depression, such as severe lung disease or obstructive sleep apnea.
  • Pregnant patients, where prolonged use may lead to Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS).
  • Patients with hepatic or renal impairment must be monitored closely, as clearance of the drug may be reduced.
  • Older adults may be more susceptible to effects and require cautious use.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other Medicines and Products

Pulmoserum is a product with historical use, and as such, comprehensive, modern regulatory documents listing specific drug-drug or drug-product interactions are not widely available from major governmental health authorities. Consequently, a dedicated, officially sanctioned interactions profile may not exist in current regulatory databases (such as those maintained by the FDA or EMA) unlike contemporary pharmaceutical agents.

Since specific, official interaction data is limited, patients and healthcare providers should exercise general caution when combining it with any other medicinal product or dietary supplement. In the absence of a modern, evidence-based interaction analysis, any potential for interaction, including those affecting drug metabolism or clearance, remains undefined. The combination of Pulmoserum with any other treatment, especially those that affect the immune system, respiratory function, or general circulation, must be discussed with a qualified medical professional to assess potential risks. This is essential to prevent unintended clinical effects that could alter the safety or efficacy of any concurrent regimen. There are no explicitly stated restrictions or contraindicated combinations based on official regulatory labeling. This information is purely descriptive and does not constitute medical advice.

Mechanism of Action

Pulmoserum exerts its effect through the complementary modulation of two distinct physiological systems by its components, Codeine and Guaiacol. The central action of Codeine is mediated by agonism at mu-opioid receptors (MOR) concentrated within the Medullary Cough Center in the brainstem. This molecular interaction initiates a signaling cascade that results in the neuronal inhibition and subsequent suppression of afferent signaling and efferent motor drive within the cough reflex arc. The resulting physiological consequence is a reduction of the overactive central impulse. The peripheral action of Guaiacol involves a reflex-mediated mechanism. Guaiacol stimulates sensory nerve endings in the gastric mucosa, triggering the gastro-pulmonary vagal reflex. This reflex increases fluid secretion from the airways, resulting in the lowering of mucus viscosity and increased volume in the tracheobronchial fluid. The combined effect modulates activity within both the neural and secretory pathways, resulting in adjustments to the drug’s overall physiological effect profile.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to use Pulmoserum

Pulmoserum, an opioid antitussive combination, is manufactured as an oral solution and must be administered by mouth.


Administration Scope

The standard adult dose is 10 mL of the solution, taken on an as-needed basis. The interval between doses is no less than four hours, resulting in a maximum daily intake of 60 mL within any 24-hour period. This product is for short-term use only, and administration is discontinued when symptoms have resolved. The medication may be consumed with or without food. Use is restricted, and the medicine is not recommended for patients younger than 12 years of age.


Required Procedural Steps

To ensure correct dosing, the exact volume must be measured using a calibrated measuring device, such as an oral syringe or dosing cup, rather than a household spoon. After measuring the 10 mL volume, the dose is administered by mouth. The total volume administered across a day must be tracked to remain within the 60 mL daily limit.


Connection to the Overall Use Protocol

This protocol establishes the framework for the administration of Pulmoserum by defining the volume and frequency of the oral dose. The parameters limit the maximum daily intake and involve the use of accurate measuring tools, aligning usage with a short-term, symptom-contingent regimen.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Evidence for Symptomatic Relief of Acute Cough

Research exploring the use of Pulmoserum and its active components is applied in studies examining episodic or acute symptom patterns related to short-term respiratory illnesses, such as the common cold or influenza. The available evidence primarily comes from short-term Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and comprehensive systematic reviews that combine data across these various studies. Researchers in these trials were primarily focused on patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort related to coughing, including how often a person coughed, how severe the coughing felt, and its association with sleep disturbance in the context of coughing.

These studies were conducted during periods of increased symptom activity and typically included Adults and Young Adults with an otherwise uncomplicated cough. The evidence contributes to understanding symptom patterns during acute illness and research describes short-term measurements taken for the combination of the Codeine component and the Guaiacol component.


Findings Reported in Comparative Trials

In research exploring short-term symptom changes, the medication's components were frequently evaluated against a placebo (an inactive substance) to see how patients reported their experience in each group. Some studies describe patterns observed where the Codeine component did not consistently show a statistically significant difference in measurements of acute cough compared to the inactive placebo. Findings were mixed across different trials and regulatory assessments, indicating that the certainty remains low regarding objective measurements for this component in the context of many acute cough studies.

The Guaiacol component was studied in research examining outcomes linked to inflammatory or irritative states and the movement of respiratory secretions. Research describes that the data for this component's objective measurements of sputum volume or viscosity are still emerging, and certainty remains low due to limited data. These trials help contextualize how patients reported their experience but research does not determine whether an individual will respond similarly.


⏳ Studies on Follow-up Duration and Long-Term Use

The research base for Pulmoserum is relevant in trials assessing short-term or episodic symptom patterns because the medication was studied for temporary use during acute illnesses. Therefore, the follow-up durations were limited in the key studies, typically ranging from a single dose assessment up to 10 days of repeated use.

Because the focus is on acute episodes, long-term effects are not fully established. There is limited information for long-term outcomes or how symptoms may evolve in the observed populations with repeated or extended use beyond the defined follow-up duration. Research provides context on temporary use but does not address durability of response.


‍️ Evidence in Specific Populations

The studies primarily monitored Adults and Young Adults with acute cough; therefore, the results apply only to the populations studied. There is limited information or comprehensive research available regarding the effects or patterns observed in certain groups, such as older adults, pregnant individuals, or those with significant underlying health conditions (comorbidities). Data for certain groups remain insufficient to draw conclusions about their experience.


What Is Still Uncertain About the Research Evidence

The evidence landscape highlights several areas where certainty is low. One key limitation is the inconsistency of findings related to the Codeine component across different clinical trials, where comparative evidence is lacking for a consistent difference in measurements over placebo for acute cough.

Additionally, the action of the Codeine component is highly variable due to individual differences, meaning the amount of active substance a person receives may vary significantly based on their unique genetic profile. This variability in how the body processes the component contributes to the uncertainty of results and indicates that subgroup findings are uncertain. The overall evidence quality varies across studies, and more high-quality research is needed to fully contextualize how patients reported their experience.

Key Studies & References Label: GUAIFENESIN AND CODEINE PHOSPHATE solution (FDA DailyMed Structured Product Labeling)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Pulmoserum (FAQ)


Q: Can you take Pulmoserum if you are also taking blood pressure medication?

A: Official documentation notes that caution is required when combining Pulmoserum with any other medicinal product, especially those that affect general circulation, such as blood pressure medication. Because specific interaction data may be limited, any concurrent regimen may be discussed with a healthcare professional to evaluate potential risks. This helps prevent unintended clinical effects.

Q: How does the scientific community view the evidence for Pulmoserum?

A: Studies and official information indicate that the certainty of evidence regarding the effectiveness measurements for the drug's components remains low. Findings are described as mixed across trials for the Codeine component. This lack of certainty is also attributed to individual genetic variability in how people process the drug.

Q: What are the most common things people misunderstand about Pulmoserum?

A: A key area of misunderstanding relates to how the body processes the Codeine component. Official warnings note that individual genetic profiles can cause the amount of active substance a person receives to vary significantly. This metabolic variability contributes to the uncertain results observed in some studies and is a critical point described in official documents.

Q: Are there any foods or drinks that should be avoided when taking Pulmoserum?

A: Official administration instructions stipulate that the medication may be consumed with or without food. However, it is important to understand that official warnings specifically address the risk of combining Pulmoserum with alcohol, which can increase central nervous system depressant effects.

Q: Can Pulmoserum be used for cold or flu symptoms?

A: Pulmoserum is classified and authorized for the symptomatic relief of a non-productive, bothersome cough. This type of cough is often associated with short-term respiratory illnesses, such as the common cold or influenza. Its official purpose, however, is limited to treating the cough symptom itself, not the underlying cold or flu illness.

Q: Does Pulmoserum affect sleep?

A: Drowsiness and sedation are listed in regulatory documents as common adverse reactions associated with the medicine. Furthermore, research studies for the drug's components have examined the cough’s relationship with sleep disturbance, indicating a link between cough, sleep, and the drug's known sedative effects.

Q: Do you have to take Pulmoserum at a specific time of day?

A: Official administration protocol defines the interval between doses and limits the maximum daily intake. The established protocol defines the interval between doses and limits the maximum daily intake, but it does not mandate a specific time of day for when the medicine must be taken.

Q: Are there any herbal supplements that are known to interact with Pulmoserum?

A: Comprehensive, modern regulatory documents listing specific drug-drug or drug-product interactions, including herbal supplements, are not widely available. For this reason, official product information notes that caution is generally suggested regarding combination with any dietary supplement.

Q: How is Pulmoserum different from a steroid?

A: Pulmoserum is classified as an opioid antitussive combination, meaning its action is focused on suppressing the cough reflex in the brain and helping to thin respiratory secretions. A steroid belongs to a completely different drug class and is primarily used to reduce inflammation in the body.

Q: Is Pulmoserum used for preventative measures?

A: No. Official documents state that the medicine is for symptomatic relief of cough and is taken on an as-needed basis when the symptoms are present. It is not intended for prophylactic or preventative purposes before symptoms begin.

Q: How long does Pulmoserum stay in the system after the last use?

A: Pulmoserum contains components that are processed by the body through various pathways. The rate at which the medication is fully cleared varies by individual metabolic factors and is not defined as a single fixed period for all users. The components are known to have specific half-lives in the body.

Q: Does Pulmoserum contain any ingredients people are commonly allergic to?

A: Official labeling documents a rare adverse reaction of anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction). The solution is made up of active ingredients and non-medical ingredients (such as sweeteners and alcohol), but the label does not specifically call out all common vehicle allergens.

Q: Can people who are lactose intolerant use Pulmoserum?

A: The formulation is defined as an oral solution—a liquid preparation with an aqueous base. The known non-medical ingredients for the oral solution do not typically include lactose, but the full, official list of inactive ingredients can be found in the product labeling.

Q: Are there known interactions between Pulmoserum and common pain relievers?

A: Specific drug-drug interaction data is limited for this combination drug. However, opioid-containing products may interact with other pain relievers, especially if they are also classified as central nervous system depressants. Official caution is generally advised when combining this drug with any other medicinal product.

Q: Is Pulmoserum known to affect mood or cause anxiety?

A: Official documentation does not list anxiety or changes in mood as common adverse reactions. However, the Codeine component can interact with certain other medications, which may potentially result in Serotonin Syndrome—a condition that includes changes to mental status.

Q: Why do some people stop using Pulmoserum?

A: The official protocol states that administration should be discontinued promptly when symptoms have resolved. Discontinuation may also occur if patients experience a serious, severe, or intolerable adverse reaction that requires the medicine to be stopped.

Q: Does alcohol consumption present a risk while using Pulmoserum?

A: Yes. Regulatory warnings state that combining Pulmoserum with alcohol can increase the risk of central nervous system depressant effects. These risks include profound sedation, respiratory depression, and dizziness.

Q: Is Pulmoserum considered a maintenance drug?

A: No. Official documents stipulate that this product is authorized strictly for short-term use only. The medication is intended to be used temporarily and discontinued promptly once the cough symptoms have resolved.

Q: Are there any known issues with taking Pulmoserum long-term?

A: Official documents note that the potential for opioid dependence is associated with repeated and prolonged use. Furthermore, research studies that supported the drug's use were limited to short-term assessment, meaning the full range of long-term effects is not fully established.

Q: Why is Pulmoserum available only by prescription?

A: Pulmoserum contains Codeine, which is classified by regulatory bodies as an opioid and a controlled substance. This official classification requires it to be obtained with a prescription due to the inherent risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse.

Q: Does Pulmoserum come in different formulations (e.g., tablet, liquid, injection)?

A: Official documents describe Pulmoserum as an oral solution, a liquid preparation intended for oral administration. Other formulations (such as tablets or injections) are not described in the official product labeling for this specific combination drug.

Q: What are the signs that Pulmoserum might not be working for someone?

A: Official patient information indicates that contacting a healthcare provider may be appropriate if the cough does not get better after a specified period, typically around seven days. This lack of improvement may be considered a sign that the medication is not having the desired symptomatic effect.

Q: Does Pulmoserum affect kidney function?

A: Official warnings note that caution is required for patients who already have severe renal impairment (kidney problems). This is because kidney function affects how the body processes and clears the drug's components.

How should Pulmoserum be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Requirements

Pulmoserum (Codeine/Guaiacol Oral Solution) must be stored under specific conditions to maintain its integrity, as documented in official product labeling.


Storage Conditions

  • Temperature: Store the solution at Controlled Room Temperature (typically 20 C to 25 C). The product must be protected from excessive heat and must not be frozen.
  • Container: Keep the medicine in its original container and ensure the cap is tightly closed when not in use.
  • Child Safety: Due to its composition, Pulmoserum must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal of Unused Medicine

Any unused, expired, or unwanted Pulmoserum should be disposed of immediately. The preferred method is using a drug take-back program or an authorized community collection event. Do not flush the solution down a toilet or pour it down a drain unless specifically authorized by local environmental regulations.

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

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