Indications
Ivy and Thyme extract is a herbal cough medicine that combines dried extract of ivy leaf (Hedera helix) with extract of thyme herb (Thymus vulgaris). It is used to relieve productive (chesty) cough with thick mucus, such as cough from colds and acute bronchitis, by helping to loosen and clear phlegm. Both herbs have a long history of use, and ivy leaf extract has some supporting studies, though the evidence is modest.
How It Works
Ivy leaf contains saponins (soap like plant compounds) that thin mucus and help the airways relax, making phlegm easier to cough up. Thyme contains essential oils such as thymol, which have mild expectorant (mucus loosening), airway relaxing and antimicrobial actions.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by your doctor or pharmacist. Use the measuring cup or spoon provided and shake syrups well before use. Doses for children depend on age; follow the label carefully. If the cough lasts more than one week, see a doctor.
Interactions
- Do not take with cough suppressants such as Codeine, Dextromethorphan or Pholcodine unless a doctor advises, because they stop you coughing up the loosened mucus.
- No other important interactions are known. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you take.
Contraindications
- Allergy to ivy, thyme or other plants of the mint family (such as basil, oregano or rosemary), or to any ingredient.
- Children under 2 years of age, because of a risk of worsening breathing problems.
- Some products contain sugar, sorbitol or alcohol; check the label if you have diabetes, a rare sugar intolerance or must avoid alcohol.
Side Effects
Possible effects include nausea, vomiting, stomach upset and diarrhoea. Allergic skin reactions are uncommon.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, widespread rash), or if breathlessness, high fever, chest pain or coughing up blood or pus develops.
Pregnancy and Lactation
There is not enough information on safety in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Do not use at these times unless your doctor advises it.
Precautions and Warnings
- People with asthma, or children with a history of breathing problems, should use it only on a doctor’s advice.
- People with stomach ulcers or gastritis should use it with care.
- See a doctor if the cough lasts more than a week, or if you have fever, breathlessness or green or bloody phlegm.
Overdose
Too much may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and restlessness. In children seek medical advice promptly if a large amount has been swallowed.
Therapeutic Class
Herbal expectorant (cough medicine).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Use within the time stated on the label after opening.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.