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Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup – 150ml

Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup – 150ml

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  • ✔️ Relieves dry, tickly coughs that disrupt night-time sleep
  • ✔️ Contains diphenhydramine to suppress the cough reflex centrally
  • ✔️ Promotes natural drowsiness to help you fall asleep faster
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ One measured 10ml dose at bedtime provides all-night relief

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Is Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup Right for Your Cough?

 

A dry, tickly cough that strikes the moment you lie down is one of those genuinely miserable experiences. You're exhausted, you want to sleep, and yet your throat has other ideas. Benylin dry cough night syrup is formulated specifically for this situation — a 150ml oral liquid designed to calm that persistent cough reflex so you can actually get some rest. Available over the counter from Cured Pharmacy for just £6.74, it's a straightforward option for adults and children aged 12 and over who need targeted night-time cough relief. If you're also dealing with other cold and flu symptoms alongside your cough, you might find our cold and flu range useful for a broader look at what's available.

Dry coughs — unlike chesty, productive coughs — don't bring up mucus. They're often triggered by post-nasal drip, viral upper respiratory tract infections, or throat irritation, and they tend to worsen at night when you're lying flat. The NHS notes that most coughs caused by colds or minor infections clear up within three weeks, but that doesn't make the sleepless nights any easier to endure in the meantime.

 

How Does Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup Work in the Body?

 

The active ingredient is diphenhydramine hydrochloride 14mg per 5ml. Diphenhydramine is a first-generation, sedating antihistamine — and it works through two distinct mechanisms that make it particularly suited to night-time use:

  • Cough suppression: Diphenhydramine acts centrally on the cough centre in the medulla oblongata, reducing the sensitivity of the cough reflex.
  • Sedation: It crosses the blood-brain barrier and blocks histamine H1 receptors in the central nervous system, producing a sedative effect that helps you fall and stay asleep.
  • Antihistamine action: It also reduces histamine-mediated irritation in the upper airways, which can contribute to that tickling sensation that triggers a dry cough.

Because of the sedation it causes, this syrup is strictly for night-time use. Taking it during the day would impair your ability to drive, operate machinery, or concentrate safely.

 

Who Is Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup Suitable For?

 

This syrup is intended for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing a dry or tickly cough that is disrupting their sleep. It's particularly useful when the cough is associated with a cold or minor upper respiratory tract infection. That said, it's not appropriate for everyone.

It may be suitable for you if:

  • You are aged 12 or over
  • Your cough is dry and non-productive (no mucus)
  • Your cough is worse at night and affecting your sleep
  • You do not have any contraindicated conditions (see Section 2 for full details)

 

How Does Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup Compare to Alternatives?

 

Feature Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup Pholcodine-based Dry Cough Syrup
Active ingredient Diphenhydramine HCl 14mg/5ml Pholcodine (opioid-related antitussive)
Time of use Night-time only Day or night (depending on formulation)
Sedative effect Yes — aids sleep Mild to none
Suitable for children under 12 No No (most formulations)

 

How Should You Store Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

 

Store this syrup below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use, and always store it out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use the product after the expiry date printed on the label or bottle. Once opened, check the patient information leaflet for any specific in-use shelf-life guidance.

If you're managing multiple symptoms during a cold — such as aches and pains alongside your cough — it's worth exploring our pain relief collection for complementary options. Always check with your pharmacist before combining products.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup 150ml specifications
Treatment category Cough suppressant / Night-time cough relief
Active ingredient Diphenhydramine hydrochloride 14mg per 5ml
Mechanism of action Central cough suppression; sedating antihistamine (H1 receptor antagonist)
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 and over
Pack size 150ml
UK classification P (Pharmacy medicine)
Drug class First-generation sedating antihistamine / antitussive
Preparation Oral syrup / liquid
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup 150ml

 

What Is Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup and What Is It Used For?

 

Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup is an over-the-counter oral liquid medicine used to relieve dry, tickly coughs — particularly those that disturb sleep at night. It contains diphenhydramine hydrochloride, a sedating antihistamine that suppresses the cough reflex while also promoting drowsiness. It is not intended to treat chesty or productive coughs where mucus needs to be cleared. The NHS advises that most coughs linked to colds resolve on their own, but symptomatic relief can make a significant difference to your quality of rest during recovery.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

 

Before taking this syrup, it's important to check whether it's appropriate for you. There are several conditions and circumstances where it should not be used.

Do not take this product if you:

  • Are under 12 years of age
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Are taking or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 14 days
  • Have closed-angle glaucoma
  • Have urinary retention or an enlarged prostate
  • Have severe liver disease
  • Are allergic to diphenhydramine or any other ingredient in the formulation
  • Have a productive (chesty) cough or a cough associated with asthma or chronic bronchitis

Known drug interactions — use with caution or avoid if taking:

  • Other sedatives, hypnotics, or anxiolytics (increased sedation risk)
  • Other antihistamines (additive anticholinergic effects)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • Alcohol (significantly increases sedation — avoid completely)
  • Anticholinergic medicines (e.g. some bladder or stomach medicines)

If you are unsure whether any of your current medicines interact with this product, speak to your pharmacist before use. You can also browse our ear, nose and throat range for additional products that may support your recovery.

 

How Should You Use Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

 

Always use this medicine exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Use the measuring device provided — do not estimate doses using a household spoon.

  1. Shake the bottle gently before use.
  2. Measure the correct dose using the supplied measuring cup or spoon.
  3. Take the dose at bedtime only — do not take during the day.
  4. Do not take more than one dose in any 24-hour period.
  5. Do not exceed the stated dose.
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum per 24 hours
Adults and children aged 12+ 10ml Once at bedtime 10ml (one dose only)
Children under 12 Not suitable — do not use

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

 

Like all medicines, this product can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The sedative nature of diphenhydramine means drowsiness is expected — that's partly the point when using it at night. However, other effects are worth being aware of.

Common side effects:

  • Drowsiness (expected and intended at night)
  • Dry mouth
  • Blurred vision
  • Dizziness
  • Headache

Less common side effects:

  • Urinary retention (difficulty passing urine)
  • Constipation
  • Nausea
  • Paradoxical excitability (particularly in older adults or children — though this product is not for under-12s)
  • Palpitations

Stop taking this medicine and seek medical advice promptly if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a severe skin reaction — these may indicate a rare allergic response.

 

How Should You Store Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the medicine's safety and effectiveness throughout its shelf life.

  • Store below 25°C
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed after each use
  • Store out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicine to your pharmacy

If you're supporting your overall health during a cold or flu episode, it may also be worth considering vitamins and supplements such as vitamin C or zinc, which some people find helpful during recovery. Always check with your pharmacist before combining any supplements with medicines.

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Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup online in the UK?

You can buy Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup 150ml directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. It's available without a prescription as a Pharmacy (P) medicine. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched from our registered pharmacy team.

How does Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup work in the body?

The active ingredient, diphenhydramine hydrochloride, is a first-generation sedating antihistamine. It works by suppressing the cough reflex centrally in the brain and blocking histamine H1 receptors, which reduces airway irritation and promotes drowsiness to help you sleep through a dry, tickly cough.

How do I use Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup step by step?

Follow these steps for correct use:

  1. Shake the bottle gently before measuring your dose.
  2. Use the measuring cup provided — do not use a household spoon.
  3. Take 10ml at bedtime only.
  4. Do not take a second dose within 24 hours.

Never exceed the recommended dose, and do not take this syrup during the day as it causes significant drowsiness.

What is the correct dose of Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup for adults?

Adults and young people aged 12 and over should take 10ml once at bedtime. This is the maximum dose in any 24-hour period — do not take more than this. Children under 12 should not use this product under any circumstances.

Can I take Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup during the day?

No — this formulation is strictly for night-time use only. Diphenhydramine causes significant drowsiness, which means taking it during the day would make it unsafe to drive, operate machinery, or carry out tasks requiring concentration. If you need daytime cough relief, speak to your pharmacist about a non-sedating alternative.

What are the side effects of Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

Common side effects include:

  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Blurred vision
  • Dizziness

Less common effects include urinary retention, constipation, and nausea. Stop use and seek medical advice if you experience any severe or unexpected reaction.

Who should not take Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

This product is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant or breastfeeding women, people taking MAOIs, or those with closed-angle glaucoma, urinary retention, or severe liver disease. It is also not appropriate for productive (chesty) coughs or coughs related to asthma. Always read the full patient information leaflet before use.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

No. Alcohol significantly increases the sedative effect of diphenhydramine, which can be dangerous. You should avoid alcohol entirely while using this product. This is not just a precaution — it's a firm safety instruction included in the product's patient information leaflet.

How long can I use Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup for?

Do not use this syrup for more than 7 consecutive nights without consulting a pharmacist or GP. If your cough persists beyond this period, it may indicate an underlying condition that needs proper assessment. The NHS recommends seeking medical advice for coughs lasting more than three weeks.

What happens if I miss a dose of Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

Since this product is taken once at bedtime as needed, there is no strict dosing schedule to miss. If you forget to take it one night, simply continue as normal the following night if required. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Is Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup safe during pregnancy?

No — this product is not recommended during pregnancy. Diphenhydramine should be avoided unless specifically advised by a doctor. If you are pregnant and suffering from a dry cough, speak to your GP or midwife before using any cough medicine, including over-the-counter products.

What are the alternatives to Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

Alternatives for dry cough relief include simple linctus (glycerol-based), honey and lemon preparations, or pholcodine-based syrups for daytime use. For a broader range of options, you can browse our cold and flu collection. Always check with your pharmacist which product is most appropriate for your specific symptoms.

Can Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup be taken with other cold medicines?

Caution is needed. Many combination cold and flu remedies already contain antihistamines, so taking them alongside this syrup could lead to excessive sedation or anticholinergic effects. Always check the ingredients of any other medicine you're taking and speak to your pharmacist before combining products. You can also explore our ear, nose and throat range for targeted symptom relief.

Is Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup suitable for elderly patients?

Older adults should use this product with particular caution. Diphenhydramine can cause paradoxical excitability, increased confusion, urinary retention, and a higher risk of falls in elderly patients due to its sedative and anticholinergic properties. It is advisable for older adults to consult a pharmacist or GP before use.

What are the latest findings on diphenhydramine for cough relief?

Diphenhydramine has been used as a cough suppressant for decades and remains an established option for dry, non-productive coughs. Current clinical guidance, including NHS and BNF recommendations, supports its short-term use for night-time cough relief in adults and those aged 12 and over, while emphasising that coughs persisting beyond three weeks should be medically reviewed.

How Should You Use Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

Always read the patient information leaflet before using this medicine. Use the measuring cup or spoon provided with the bottle — never estimate your dose using a kitchen spoon, as this can lead to under- or over-dosing. Shake the bottle gently before each use to ensure the liquid is evenly mixed.

Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

The dose is the same for all eligible users — adults and young people aged 12 and over. There is only one dose per 24-hour period, taken at bedtime. Do not take additional doses if your cough wakes you during the night.

When Is the Best Time to Use Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

Take this syrup at bedtime — and only at bedtime. The diphenhydramine it contains causes drowsiness, which is intentional for night-time use but would be hazardous during the day. Taking it shortly before you get into bed gives it time to begin working as you settle down to sleep, helping to suppress the cough reflex through the night.

Avoid taking it if you need to drive, operate machinery, or remain alert within the following several hours. Plan your evening accordingly so you can go straight to bed after your dose.

How Long Can You Use Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup For?

This syrup is intended for short-term use only. Do not use it for more than 7 consecutive nights without speaking to a pharmacist or GP. Most coughs associated with colds or minor respiratory infections improve within this timeframe. If your cough persists beyond 7 days, worsens, or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, breathlessness, or blood in the mucus, stop use and seek medical advice promptly.

Prolonged use of diphenhydramine is not recommended due to the risk of tolerance to its sedative effects and the potential for anticholinergic side effects with extended exposure.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

Because this syrup contains diphenhydramine hydrochloride — a sedating antihistamine — drowsiness is the most expected and, in this context, intentional effect. It's what helps you sleep through a dry, tickly cough. However, other common effects can occur and are worth knowing about before you start using it.

  • Drowsiness and sedation
  • Dry mouth
  • Blurred vision
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Impaired coordination (which is why you must not drive after taking it)

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

Some people experience side effects that are less frequent but still clinically significant. These are largely related to the anticholinergic properties of diphenhydramine, which can affect smooth muscle and secretory glands throughout the body.

  • Urinary retention (difficulty passing urine — particularly relevant in men with an enlarged prostate)
  • Constipation
  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Palpitations or rapid heartbeat
  • Paradoxical excitability or restlessness (more common in older adults)
  • Skin rash or sensitivity reactions

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Stop taking this medicine straight away and seek emergency help if you experience any of the following:

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
  • Difficulty breathing or severe wheezing
  • Severe skin reactions such as blistering or peeling
  • Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
  • Seizures

These may indicate a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) or a rare but severe adverse response to the medicine. Call 999 or go to your nearest A&E immediately if you suspect anaphylaxis.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup?

For mild side effects such as dry mouth or dizziness, these often resolve on their own and do not usually require you to stop the medicine. Staying well hydrated can help with dry mouth. If side effects are troublesome or persistent, stop use and speak to your pharmacist or GP. You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Benylin Dry Cough Night Syrup Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — interactions are an important consideration with this product. Diphenhydramine interacts with several commonly used medicines and substances. Taking it alongside other sedatives, sleeping tablets, or anxiolytics can cause excessive sedation. Combining it with other antihistamines — including those found in many combination cold remedies — can amplify anticholinergic effects such as urinary retention and dry mouth. MAOIs are a particularly serious contraindication; do not take this product if you have used an MAOI within the past 14 days. Alcohol must also be avoided entirely, as it significantly increases sedation and impairs judgement and coordination.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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