Oxeladin Citrate
Pronunciation: (ok-SELL-uh-din).
- Generic name
- Oxeladin citrate
- Brand names
- Oxelatus, Oxedil, Coughnil, Oxeladin, Oxecof, Tussidex
- Drug class
- Antitussive (Cough Suppressant)
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country:
Australia: · Full directory
What Oxeladin citrate is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how Oxeladin citrate works
Oxeladin is a centrally acting antitussive that suppresses the cough reflex by inhibiting the cough center in the medulla oblongata. Unlike opioid antitussives, oxeladin does not depress respiration or cause significant sedation, making it safer for use in children and adults. (2)
What Oxeladin citrate is used for
Dry, irritating (non-productive) cough
Confirmed by the French national medicines database (ANSM) entry for Paxeladine (oxeladine/oxeladin citrate) syrup, a widely used European brand: indicated for the symptomatic treatment of dry, irritating coughs in adults and children over 30 months and 15 kg. Oxeladin is not FDA-approved and has no US marketing presence; availability and exact approved wording vary by country. (2)
Before taking Oxeladin citrate
Do not take / not appropriate for
- hypersensitivity to oxeladin or its components, productive coughs, and children under 2 years (unless prescribed). (Contraindication) (2)
Tell your clinician about
(2)How to take Oxeladin citrate
- General Instructions: Take oxeladin exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration.. Adult Dosing: Typical adult dose: 20 mg orally 2-3 times daily. Dosage may vary based on formulation and clinical need.. Pediatric Dosing: Children (over 2 years): Dose is weight-based and should be determined by a healthcare provider. Commonly, 10 mg 2-3 times daily for children aged 6-12 years.. Administration: Take with or without food. Syrup and drops should be measured carefully using the provided device.. When To Seek Review: If cough persists for more than 7 days, worsens, or if you develop new symptoms such as fever or rash, seek medical advice promptly and let the clinician you see advise on whether to continue or stop treatment.. Storage: Store at room temperature (below 25°C/77°F), away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (2)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take an extra dose to make up for the missed one.
Overdose
In case of overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms may include severe drowsiness, agitation, confusion, hallucinations, or loss of consciousness. Supportive care and symptomatic treatment are recommended. (2)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Mild drowsiness
Incidence: Reported, particularly at higher-than-recommended intake; specific frequency not established
Dyspepsia (indigestion/upset stomach)
Incidence: Reported, particularly at higher-than-recommended intake; specific frequency not established
Allergic skin reactions such as rash or itching
Incidence: Reported occasionally; specific frequency not established
Signs of a severe allergic reaction — swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema), difficulty breathing, or widespread hives
Incidence: Reported rarely; seek immediate medical attention if this occurs
A noticeable drop in blood pressure (e.g., dizziness or fainting on standing), most associated with taking more than the recommended amount
Incidence: Reported, particularly with overdose; seek medical attention promptly if this occurs
Serious warnings
Not for use in children under 2 years unless specifically prescribed — serious
Symptoms: Not for use in children under 2 years unless specifically prescribed. Do not use for productive (wet) coughs. Use caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment. May cause drowsiness; avoid activities requiring alertness. Consult your doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindications include hypersensitivity to oxeladin or its components, productive coughs, and children under 2 years (unless prescribed). Use with caution in patients with hepatic or renal impairment, and in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to limited safety data.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Oxeladin may interact with central nervous system depressants (such as sedatives, tranquilizers, or alcohol), increasing the risk of drowsiness or impaired coordination. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking. |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
The French regulator (ANSM) product information for Paxeladine (oxeladin) states that use should generally be avoided during pregnancy, because monitoring data are insufficient to rule out a risk. Anyone who is or could become pregnant should discuss any need for a cough suppressant with their prescriber or pharmacist. (2)
Breastfeeding
The ANSM product information states that use is not recommended during breastfeeding, because there are no data on whether oxeladin passes into breast milk. Discuss alternative options with your healthcare provider while breastfeeding. (2)
Children
Frequency: Not applicable.. Weight Based: Not recommended for pediatric use.. Max Daily Dose: Not applicable.. Max Single Dose: Not applicable.. Age Restrictions: Safety not established in children. The ANSM-approved product is specifically indicated only from 30 months of age and 15 kg body weight, with weight-band dosing set by a clinician below that. (2)
Renal_impairment
No specific renal- or hepatic-impairment dosing guidance is given in the ANSM (French regulator) product information reviewed for this page — this is a genuine information gap for oxeladin rather than a confirmed safety statement. The clinician database's general caution (use with caution in hepatic or renal impairment) should still be followed; anyone with significant kidney or liver disease should discuss use with their prescriber. (2)
Hepatic_impairment
No specific renal- or hepatic-impairment dosing guidance is given in the ANSM (French regulator) product information reviewed for this page — this is a genuine information gap for oxeladin rather than a confirmed safety statement. The clinician database's general caution (use with caution in hepatic or renal impairment) should still be followed; anyone with significant kidney or liver disease should discuss use with their prescriber. (2)
Monitoring
(2)Storage
The ANSM product information states this medicine does not require special storage conditions beyond keeping it below 25°C (77°F); once opened, the syrup should be used within a maximum of 6 months. Keep out of reach of children.
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
France (ANSM) — representative European regulatory approval; no FDA/US label exists
Indication: Dry, irritating (non-productive) cough
Dose summary: Adults (ANSM/Paxeladine syrup 0.2%): one 5 mL measure (10 mg oxeladin citrate) per dose, repeatable after 4 hours if needed, not exceeding 5 doses per day. Children (weight-banded, from 30 months/15 kg): 2.5-5 mL per dose depending on weight, 2-5 doses per day per the weight band. The clinician database's general figure of oxeladin citrate 5-10 mg per dose is consistent with this.
Renal context: No specific renal-impairment dosing guidance is given in the ANSM (French regulator) product information — this is a genuine information gap, not a confirmed 'no adjustment needed' finding. Use with caution and clinician judgment in patients with significant renal impairment. (2)
Hepatic guidance
No specific hepatic-impairment dosing guidance is given in the ANSM (French regulator) product information — this is a genuine information gap, not a confirmed 'no adjustment needed' finding. Use with caution and clinician judgment in patients with significant hepatic impairment.
Frequently asked questions
What is oxeladin used for?
Oxeladin is used to relieve dry, non-productive coughs associated with respiratory tract infections, allergies, or irritants.
Is oxeladin safe for children?
Oxeladin can be used in children over 2 years old, but dosing should be determined by a healthcare provider. It is not recommended for children under 2 years unless specifically prescribed.
Can I take oxeladin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Consult your doctor before using oxeladin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as safety data is limited.
How quickly does oxeladin work?
Oxeladin typically begins to relieve cough within 30 to 60 minutes after oral administration.
Can I use oxeladin with other cough medicines?
Do not combine oxeladin with other cough suppressants or expectorants unless advised by your healthcare provider.
What should I do if I experience side effects?
If you experience mild side effects, monitor your symptoms. For severe or persistent side effects, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.
Is oxeladin addictive?
Oxeladin is a non-opioid cough suppressant and is not considered addictive.
What happens if I take too much Oxeladin?
Taking too much Oxeladin can lead to symptoms such as drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, it may cause respiratory depression or central nervous system effects. If you suspect an overdose, it is crucial to seek immediate emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center without delay.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Oxeladin?
It is generally advisable to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking Oxeladin. As an antitussive, Oxeladin can cause drowsiness. Alcohol can amplify this sedative effect, potentially leading to increased dizziness, impaired coordination, and a greater risk of accidents. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is Oxeladin safe during pregnancy?
The French regulator's (ANSM) product information for oxeladin states use should generally be avoided during pregnancy because monitoring data are insufficient to rule out a risk, and it is not recommended during breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before taking oxeladin to discuss potential risks and alternatives.
What is the mechanism of action of Oxeladin citrate?
Oxeladin is a centrally acting antitussive that suppresses the cough reflex by inhibiting the cough center in the medulla oblongata. Unlike opioid antitussives, oxeladin does not depress respiration or cause significant sedation, making it safer for use in children and adults. (2)
What is the generic name of Oxeladin Citrate?
The generic name is Oxeladin citrate. It is sold under brand names including Oxelatus, Oxedil, Coughnil, Oxeladin, Oxecof, Tussidex.
What class of drug is Oxeladin citrate?
Oxeladin Citrate is classed as: Antitussive (Cough Suppressant).
References
- Oxeladin — Clinician-Authored Medicine RecordMedGuideGlobal · Global (internal reference) · accessed 2026-08-07 · source 1
- Paxeladine 0.2% syrup (oxeladine citrate) — Product informationAgence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé (ANSM) · France · accessed 2026-08-07 · source 2
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient Oxeladin citrate names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.