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Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup - 300ml

Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup - 300ml

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  • ✔️ Soothes dry and tickly coughs with glycerol demulcent action
  • ✔️ Coats and calms irritated throat lining for lasting comfort
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 12 years and over
  • ✔️ Non-drowsy formula — safe to use during the day
  • ✔️ 300ml bottle provides a generous supply for extended relief

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What Is Benylin Dry and Tickly Cough Syrup?

 

A dry, scratchy cough that just won't quit can be exhausting — and frankly, quite miserable. Benylin dry and tickly cough syrup is a well-known over-the-counter oral liquid designed specifically to soothe that persistent irritation at the back of your throat. The 300ml bottle gives you a generous supply, making it a practical choice whether you're managing a short-lived cold or a lingering tickle that's keeping you up at night. If you're also dealing with other cold-related symptoms, you might find it helpful to browse our cold and flu range for complementary products.

This syrup is classified as a general sale medicine in the UK, meaning you can purchase it without a prescription. It's manufactured by Kenvue (formerly part of Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health) and has been a trusted household name for decades. That said, being widely available doesn't mean it's suitable for everyone — always read the label carefully before use.

 

How Does Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup Work?

 

Unlike some cough medicines that act on the brain's cough centre, this syrup works locally — right where the irritation is. The active ingredient is glycerol, a demulcent that forms a soothing, protective coating over the mucous membranes lining your throat. Think of it as a gentle barrier between the irritated tissue and the air passing over it.

  • Glycerol coats the throat lining, reducing friction and irritation
  • The viscous texture slows the syrup's passage, prolonging contact with irritated tissue
  • Soothing action helps calm the nerve endings that trigger the cough reflex
  • No central nervous system suppression — it works peripherally, not systemically

Because glycerol is a demulcent rather than a cough suppressant (antitussive), it's particularly well suited to dry and tickly coughs where there's no mucus to shift. It won't thin or loosen phlegm, so it's not the right choice if you have a chesty, productive cough.

 

Who Should Use Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup?

 

This syrup is intended for adults and children aged 12 years and over. It's most appropriate when your cough is dry, irritating, or tickly — the kind that feels like a constant scratch rather than a need to clear your chest. It's commonly used during or after a cold, or when throat irritation is caused by environmental factors like dry air or dust.

  • Adults and teenagers (12+) with a dry or tickly cough
  • People whose cough is not producing mucus or phlegm
  • Those looking for a non-drowsy, demulcent-based option
  • Individuals who prefer a simple, single-ingredient formulation

It is not suitable for children under 12 without specific medical advice, and it should not be used to treat a productive (chesty) cough. If your cough is accompanied by a high fever, shortness of breath, or blood, you should seek medical attention rather than self-treating.

 

How Does Benylin Dry & Tickly Compare to Other Cough Syrups?

 

Feature Benylin Dry & Tickly (300ml) Benylin Chesty Coughs (300ml)
Active ingredient Glycerol (demulcent) Guaifenesin (expectorant)
Cough type Dry, tickly, irritating Chesty, productive
Mechanism Soothes throat lining locally Loosens and thins mucus
Suitable for 12+ Yes Yes

 

How Should You Store Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup?

 

Store the bottle below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate — cold temperatures can affect the consistency of the syrup. Once opened, check the expiry date on the bottle and discard any unused product after the recommended period. Always keep medicines out of the sight and reach of children, ideally in a locked cabinet.

If you're unsure whether Benylin dry and tickly cough syrup is right for your symptoms, your pharmacist is the best first port of call. They can help you choose between this and other options in our ear, nose and throat range.

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 & Tickly Cough Syrup 300ml specifications
Treatment category Cough relief
Mechanism of action Demulcent — coats and soothes throat mucous membranes
Effective for Dry, tickly, and irritating coughs
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 years and over
Active ingredient Glycerol
Pack size 300ml
UK classification General Sale Medicine (GSL)
Drug class Demulcent
Preparation Oral syrup / linctus
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup 300ml

 

What Is Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup and What Is It Used For?

 

Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup is an oral liquid medicine used to relieve dry, irritating, and tickly coughs. Its active ingredient, glycerol, acts as a demulcent — it soothes the lining of the throat rather than suppressing the cough reflex through the central nervous system. It is available over the counter in the UK without a prescription and is classified as a General Sale Medicine (GSL).

Dry coughs are extremely common, particularly following a viral upper respiratory tract infection such as a cold. According to the NHS, most coughs caused by a cold will clear up on their own within three weeks, but symptomatic relief can make that period considerably more comfortable. This syrup is intended for short-term use to ease that discomfort while your body recovers.

 

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

 

Before using this syrup, it's important to check whether it's appropriate for you. Do not use it if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to glycerol or any other ingredient listed in the product
  • Your child is under 12 years of age (unless directed by a doctor)
  • You have a productive (chesty) cough with phlegm — this syrup is not designed for that
  • Your cough is accompanied by high fever, difficulty breathing, or blood
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding — speak to your pharmacist or GP first

There are no clinically significant drug interactions known at standard doses for glycerol-based demulcent syrups. However, if you are taking any prescribed medicines, it is always sensible to check with your pharmacist before adding any new product. You should also be aware that this syrup contains small amounts of other excipients — check the full ingredients list if you have known sensitivities.

  • No significant interactions with common OTC or prescription medicines at standard doses
  • Inform your pharmacist if you are taking any regular medication

 

How Should You Use Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup?

 

Always use this medicine exactly as described on the label or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Here's how to take it correctly:

  1. Shake the bottle gently before use
  2. Use the measuring cup provided to measure the correct dose
  3. Take the syrup orally — do not dilute it with water
  4. Swallow slowly to allow the syrup to coat the throat
  5. Repeat up to four times daily as needed, leaving at least four hours between doses
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum daily dose
Adults & children 12+ 10ml Up to 4 times daily 40ml
Children under 12 Not recommended

If symptoms do not improve within five days, stop use and consult your GP or pharmacist. For broader symptom management during a cold, you might also want to explore our pain relief range for products that can help with associated headaches or sore throat discomfort.

 

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

 

Glycerol is generally very well tolerated at the doses used in this syrup. Serious side effects are rare. That said, as with any medicine, some people may experience unwanted effects.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Mild nausea, particularly if taken on an empty stomach
  • Headache

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Stomach discomfort or bloating
  • Dizziness
  • Allergic skin reactions such as rash or itching

If you notice signs of a serious allergic reaction — such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash — stop taking the syrup immediately and seek emergency medical help. This type of reaction is very rare but requires prompt attention.

 

How Should You Store Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the quality and safety of the medicine throughout its shelf life. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Do not refrigerate or freeze
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Store out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicine to your pharmacist

If you're managing a range of health concerns alongside a cough, our vitamins and supplements collection includes immune-support options that may help your recovery. Always speak to a pharmacist before combining supplements with medicines.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

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 & Tickly Cough Syrup online in the UK?

You can buy Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup 300ml directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. It's available without a prescription as a General Sale Medicine. Simply add it to your basket and choose your preferred delivery option for fast dispatch.

How does Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup work in the body?

The active ingredient, glycerol, works as a demulcent — it coats the mucous membranes lining your throat, forming a soothing protective layer that reduces irritation. This local action calms the nerve endings responsible for triggering a dry or tickly cough. It does not suppress the cough reflex centrally, so it won't cause drowsiness.

How do I use Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup step by step?

Shake the bottle gently, then measure 10ml using the measuring cup provided. Take it orally without diluting it with water, and swallow slowly to allow the syrup to coat your throat. Repeat up to four times daily, leaving at least four hours between each dose.

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

Adults and children aged 12 years and over should take 10ml up to four times a day. The maximum daily dose is 40ml in any 24-hour period. Do not exceed this amount, and always leave at least four hours between doses.

Can children under 12 take Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup?

No — this syrup is not recommended for children under 12 years of age without specific medical advice. If your child has a cough and is under 12, speak to your GP or pharmacist before giving any cough medicine. You can also browse our baby and toddler range for age-appropriate products.

What are the side effects of Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup?

Side effects are uncommon but can include mild nausea, headache, or stomach discomfort. Rarely, some people may experience dizziness or a skin reaction. If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction — such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash — stop use immediately and seek medical help.

Who should not use Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup?

You should not use this syrup if you are allergic to glycerol or any other ingredient in the product. It is also not suitable for children under 12 without medical advice, or for people with a productive (chesty) cough that produces phlegm. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a pharmacist or GP before use.

How long can you use Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup for?

You should not use this syrup for more than five days without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. If your cough persists beyond five days, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or breathlessness, seek medical advice promptly. Most dry coughs following a cold resolve within two to three weeks.

What is the best time to take Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup?

There is no single "best" time — you can take it whenever your cough is most troublesome, up to four times a day. Many people find it particularly helpful before bed if a tickly cough is disrupting their sleep. Just ensure you leave at least four hours between each dose throughout the day.

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

Because this syrup is taken as needed rather than on a strict schedule, missing a dose simply means taking the next one when your symptoms return — provided at least four hours have passed since your last dose. Do not double up to compensate for a missed dose. Never exceed four doses in 24 hours.

Is Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup suitable during pregnancy?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should speak to your GP or pharmacist before using this syrup. While glycerol is generally considered low-risk, it is always best to seek professional advice before taking any medicine during pregnancy. Your pharmacist can help you weigh up the benefits and any potential risks.

Does Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup interact with other medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions are known at standard doses for glycerol-based demulcent syrups. However, if you are taking any prescribed or over-the-counter medicines, it is always wise to check with your pharmacist before adding a new product. This is especially important if you take medicines for heart conditions, diabetes, or epilepsy.

What are the alternatives to Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup?

Alternatives include simple linctus (also glycerol-based) and other demulcent syrups available from pharmacies. If your cough is chesty and productive, you may need an expectorant such as guaifenesin instead. Your pharmacist can help you choose the right product — you can also explore our cold and flu range for a broader selection.

Is Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup non-drowsy?

Yes — because glycerol works locally on the throat rather than acting on the central nervous system, this syrup does not cause drowsiness. This makes it suitable for use during the day, including if you need to drive or operate machinery. Always check the full ingredients list, as some formulations may contain other ingredients.

What does the latest research say about glycerol for cough relief?

Glycerol has a long-established history of use as a demulcent in cough preparations, and its soothing properties are well recognised in clinical practice. The NHS acknowledges demulcent syrups as a reasonable option for symptomatic relief of dry coughs. While large-scale randomised trials specifically on glycerol cough syrups are limited, its safety profile and tolerability are well documented.

How Should You Use Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup?

Using this syrup correctly ensures you get the most from it while staying safe. Always read the label before use and follow the instructions carefully — if anything is unclear, your pharmacist is happy to help.

Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup?

The dose depends on your age. Do not give this medicine to children under 12 years without medical advice. Always use the measuring cup provided — a household spoon is not accurate enough.

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

You can take this syrup at any time of day when your cough is causing discomfort, as long as you leave at least four hours between doses. Many people find it particularly useful before bed, as a dry tickly cough can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Taking a dose in the evening may help you get a more restful night.

There is no requirement to take it with food, though if you find it causes any mild stomach discomfort, taking it after a light meal may help. The syrup works best when swallowed slowly, allowing it to coat the throat as it goes down.

How Long Can You Use Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup For?

This syrup is intended for short-term use only. Do not use it for more than five consecutive days without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist. If your cough has not improved after five days, or if it worsens at any point, you should seek medical advice — a persistent cough can sometimes indicate an underlying condition that needs assessment.

If your cough is accompanied by a high temperature, breathlessness, chest pain, or you are coughing up blood or discoloured phlegm, do not self-treat — contact your GP or call NHS 111 promptly.

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 & Tickly Cough Syrup?

Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup is generally very well tolerated. Glycerol, the active ingredient, has a well-established safety profile at the doses used in this product. Most people experience no side effects at all. However, as with any medicine, some individuals may notice mild unwanted effects.

  • Mild nausea, particularly if taken on an empty stomach
  • Headache
  • A slightly sweet or warm sensation in the throat immediately after taking the syrup

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

Less commonly, a small number of people may experience the following. These effects are not dangerous in most cases, but you should stop use and speak to a pharmacist if they persist or bother you.

  • Stomach discomfort or bloating
  • Dizziness
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Dry mouth

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

Serious side effects are very rare with this product. The most significant risk is a hypersensitivity (allergic) reaction. Although uncommon, allergic reactions to any medicine ingredient can occur and must be treated as a medical emergency.

Signs of a serious allergic reaction include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, a sudden widespread rash, or feeling faint. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking this syrup, stop use immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as nausea or headache, try taking the syrup after a light meal and ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. If side effects are persistent or troublesome, stop using the syrup and speak to your pharmacist — they can advise on whether to continue or switch to an alternative.

You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA through the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. Reporting side effects helps improve medicine safety information for everyone.

Can Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant interactions are known between glycerol at standard demulcent doses and other commonly used medicines. However, if you are taking any prescribed medication — particularly for conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or epilepsy — always inform your pharmacist before starting a new over-the-counter product. This is good practice with any medicine, not just this one.

If you are taking multiple medicines for cold and flu symptoms simultaneously, be careful to check that you are not inadvertently doubling up on any active ingredients found in combination products.

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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