Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Lemsip Cough 180ml Muscus Cough & Catarrh

Lemsip Cough 180ml Muscus Cough & Catarrh

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Loosens and clears thick chest mucus effectively
  • ✔️ Contains guaifenesin 100mg per 5ml expectorant
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Non-drowsy formula — safe for daytime use
  • ✔️ Relieves catarrh and productive chesty cough symptoms

Price Checker

Regular price £6.45
Sale price £6.45
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

What Is Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough Syrup?

 

If you've been dealing with a chesty, productive cough that just won't shift, you'll know how exhausting it can be. Lemsip Cough 180ml Mucus Cough & Catarrh is an over-the-counter mucus cough syrup designed to help loosen and clear the thick mucus that builds up in your chest and airways during a cold or respiratory infection. Available at Cured Pharmacy for just £6.45, it's a straightforward, clinically recognised option for adults and children aged 12 and over. The NHS notes that most coughs caused by colds are self-limiting, but an expectorant syrup can help make the process more comfortable by making mucus easier to shift. If you're also managing other cold and flu symptoms alongside your cough, you might find our cold and flu range useful too.

 

How Does Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh Work?

 

The active ingredient in this syrup is guaifenesin 100mg per 5ml. Guaifenesin is classified as an expectorant — it doesn't suppress your cough, it helps your body do what it's already trying to do: clear mucus. Here's how it works:

  • Guaifenesin increases the volume and reduces the viscosity (thickness) of secretions in the respiratory tract.
  • Thinner mucus is easier for the cilia (tiny hair-like structures lining your airways) to move upward.
  • This makes coughing more productive, helping you expel mucus more effectively.
  • Drinking plenty of fluids alongside the syrup enhances this effect, as hydration further thins mucus.

It's worth noting that guaifenesin works on the mucus itself — it doesn't treat the underlying infection. If your symptoms are caused by a bacterial infection, you may need to speak to your GP.

 

Who Should Use Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

 

This syrup is suitable for people experiencing a chesty, productive cough with mucus — the kind where you feel congestion in your chest or throat and need to cough to bring it up. It's particularly helpful during and after a cold or mild respiratory illness. It is suitable for:

  • Adults aged 18 and over with a productive chesty cough
  • Adolescents aged 12–17 (under adult supervision)
  • People experiencing catarrh (excess mucus in the nose and throat)
  • Those who prefer a liquid formulation over tablets

It is not suitable for children under 12, and it should not be used for a dry or tickly cough — that type of cough requires a different approach entirely.

 

How Does Lemsip Cough Compare to Other Mucus Cough Remedies?

 

Feature Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh Benylin Chesty Coughs Non-Drowsy
Active ingredient Guaifenesin 100mg/5ml Guaifenesin 100mg/5ml
Suitable age 12 years and over 12 years and over
Volume 180ml 150ml
Drowsiness risk Non-drowsy Non-drowsy

 

How Should You Store Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

 

Store this mucus cough syrup below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use, and always keep it out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use the product after the expiry date printed on the bottle. Once opened, use within the period stated on the packaging. If you're unsure about storage or suitability, our pharmacist team is available to advise — and if you're managing related symptoms like a sore throat or nasal congestion, our ear, nose and throat range may also be worth exploring.

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.

Lemsip Cough 180ml Mucus Cough & Catarrh specifications
Treatment category Cough — expectorant / mucolytic
Mechanism of action Expectorant — reduces mucus viscosity to aid clearance
Effective for Productive chesty cough, catarrh, mucus congestion
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 and over
Active ingredient Guaifenesin 100mg per 5ml
Pack size 180ml
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Expectorant
Preparation Oral syrup / liquid
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Lemsip Cough 180ml Mucus Cough & Catarrh

 

What Is Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh and What Is It Used For?

 

Lemsip Cough 180ml Mucus Cough & Catarrh is an oral syrup used to relieve productive chesty coughs and catarrh — the build-up of excess mucus in the nose, throat, and chest. It contains guaifenesin, a well-established expectorant that has been used in cough medicines for decades. The NHS advises that most coughs associated with colds will resolve on their own, but expectorants can help ease discomfort by making mucus easier to clear. This product is intended for short-term symptomatic relief only and does not treat the underlying cause of your cough.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

 

Before taking this syrup, read the following carefully. Do not use this product if any of the contraindications below apply to you.

Do not use if you:

  • Are under 12 years of age
  • Are allergic to guaifenesin or any other ingredient in the syrup
  • Have a persistent or chronic cough (e.g. associated with asthma, emphysema, or smoking) without first consulting a doctor
  • Have a cough accompanied by excessive phlegm without medical advice

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before use if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding — safety data for guaifenesin in pregnancy is limited
  • Have kidney or liver problems
  • Are taking any other medicines, including herbal remedies

Known drug interactions:

  • No clinically significant interactions are established at standard OTC doses of guaifenesin
  • Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter products

 

How Should You Use Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

 

Always use this medicine exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Using the dosing cup provided ensures accuracy — never estimate with a household spoon.

  1. Shake the bottle gently before each use.
  2. Measure the correct dose using the dosing cup or measuring spoon provided.
  3. Swallow the syrup directly — do not dilute unless advised.
  4. Drink a full glass of water after each dose to help thin mucus further.
  5. Repeat up to four times daily, leaving at least four hours between doses.
  6. Do not exceed four doses in any 24-hour period.
Age Group Dose Frequency Max daily dose
Adults & children 12+ 10ml (200mg guaifenesin) Up to 4 times daily 40ml (800mg)
Under 12 years Not suitable — do not use

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

 

Like all medicines, this product can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. If you notice any side effects not listed here, stop use and speak to a pharmacist or GP. You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme.

Common side effects:

  • Nausea
  • Stomach discomfort or upset
  • Vomiting (particularly if taken on an empty stomach)

Less common side effects:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Skin rash or allergic reaction (stop use immediately if this occurs)

If you experience signs of a serious allergic reaction — such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash — seek emergency medical attention immediately. For general pain or discomfort alongside your cough, you might also find our pain relief range helpful.

 

How Should You Store Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children at all times.
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle or carton.
  • Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink — moisture can affect the product.
  • Do not freeze.
  • If you have unused medicine, return it to your local pharmacy for safe disposal — do not pour it down the drain or put it in household waste.

If you're managing a range of winter illness symptoms, our vitamins and supplements range includes immune-support options that may complement your recovery.

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 Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh online in the UK?

You can buy Lemsip Cough 180ml Mucus Cough & Catarrh directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for £6.45. Ordering online means you can get it delivered to your door without needing to visit a shop. It's a convenient option, especially when you're feeling under the weather and don't want to go out.

How does Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh work in the body?

The active ingredient, guaifenesin, is an expectorant that works by increasing the water content of mucus secretions in your airways, making them thinner and less sticky. This allows the tiny hair-like structures (cilia) lining your airways to move mucus upward more easily, so you can cough it out. It doesn't suppress your cough — it makes your cough more productive and effective at clearing congestion.

How do I use Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh step by step?

Shake the bottle before use, then measure 10ml using the dosing cup provided. Swallow the dose and follow it with a full glass of water to help thin mucus further. Repeat up to four times daily, leaving at least four hours between each dose, and never exceed four doses in 24 hours.

What is the correct dose of Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh for adults?

Adults and young people aged 12 and over should take 10ml (equivalent to 200mg of guaifenesin) up to four times a day. The maximum daily dose is 40ml (800mg of guaifenesin) in any 24-hour period. Always use the measuring cup provided rather than a household spoon to ensure accuracy.

Can children under 12 use Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

No — this product is not suitable for children under 12 years of age. If your child has a chesty cough, speak to your pharmacist or GP about age-appropriate alternatives. Our baby and toddler range includes products specifically formulated for younger children.

What are the side effects of Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

Side effects are uncommon but can include nausea, stomach upset, vomiting, headache, or dizziness — particularly if taken on an empty stomach. Rarely, some people may experience a skin rash or allergic reaction. If you notice any unusual symptoms, stop taking the syrup and speak to your pharmacist or GP promptly.

Who should not use Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

This product is not suitable for children under 12, people with a known allergy to guaifenesin, or those with a chronic or persistent cough (such as one caused by asthma, emphysema, or smoking) without first consulting a doctor. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also seek medical advice before use, as safety data in these groups is limited.

How long can I use Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh for?

You should not use this syrup for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. If your cough persists beyond a week, worsens, or is accompanied by a high fever, difficulty breathing, or blood in your phlegm, seek medical advice promptly. Prolonged coughs can sometimes indicate an underlying condition that needs proper assessment.

What is the difference between a mucus cough syrup and a dry cough syrup?

A mucus cough syrup like Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh contains an expectorant (guaifenesin) that helps loosen and clear phlegm from a productive, chesty cough. A dry cough syrup typically contains a cough suppressant such as dextromethorphan, which reduces the urge to cough when there's no mucus to clear. Using the wrong type for your cough type won't help — and could make things worse.

Can I take Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh with other cold and flu medicines?

You should be cautious about combining this syrup with other cold and flu products, as some multi-symptom remedies already contain guaifenesin — taking both could lead to exceeding the recommended dose. Always check the ingredients of any other medicines you're taking and speak to your pharmacist if you're unsure. Our cold and flu range includes a variety of single-ingredient and combination products to help you choose safely.

Is Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh safe during pregnancy?

The safety of guaifenesin during pregnancy has not been fully established, and the NHS advises caution with all medicines during pregnancy — particularly in the first trimester. You should speak to your GP or midwife before using this product if you are pregnant or think you might be. They can advise on the safest options for managing your symptoms.

What happens if I accidentally take too much Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

If you take more than the recommended dose, you may experience increased nausea, vomiting, or dizziness. In the event of an overdose or if a child accidentally swallows the product, contact NHS 111 or go to your nearest A&E immediately. Always keep the bottle out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Does Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh contain alcohol or sugar?

You should check the full ingredients list on the product packaging or patient information leaflet for details on alcohol and sugar content, as formulations can vary. If you have diabetes or are avoiding alcohol for any reason, speak to your pharmacist before use. They can confirm the exact excipients and help you choose the most appropriate product.

What are the alternatives to Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

Alternatives containing the same active ingredient (guaifenesin) include Benylin Chesty Coughs Non-Drowsy and own-brand guaifenesin syrups available from pharmacies. Non-medicated options such as honey and lemon in warm water are also recommended by the NHS for soothing a cough in adults. Your pharmacist can help you choose the most suitable option based on your symptoms and medical history.

What does the latest research say about guaifenesin for mucus coughs?

Guaifenesin has been used as an expectorant for many decades and is included in numerous licensed OTC cough preparations in the UK. The evidence base supports its use for short-term symptomatic relief of productive coughs, though the NHS notes that most coughs resolve without treatment. It remains one of the most widely recommended expectorants by pharmacists for chesty coughs associated with colds and respiratory infections.

How Should You Use Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

Using this syrup correctly makes a real difference to how well it works. Always read the patient information leaflet before use, and follow these steps carefully each time you take a dose.

Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day — particularly water — will help guaifenesin work more effectively by keeping mucus hydrated and easier to shift.

What Is the Correct Dose of Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

The dose depends on your age. This product is only suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over. Do not give it to children under 12 under any circumstances — speak to a pharmacist about age-appropriate alternatives instead.

The table below summarises the recommended dosing for this product.

When Is the Best Time to Use Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

There is no single "best" time of day — you can take doses as needed throughout the day, spacing them at least four hours apart. Many people find it helpful to take a dose in the morning when mucus tends to be thicker after a night's sleep, and again before bed to ease overnight congestion.

Taking the syrup with or after food may help reduce the chance of stomach upset, particularly if you're prone to nausea.

How Long Can You Use Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh For?

This syrup is intended for short-term use only. Do not use it for more than 7 consecutive days without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist. If your cough hasn't improved after a week, or if it worsens at any point, seek medical advice — a persistent cough can sometimes indicate a condition that needs further investigation.

If your cough is accompanied by a high fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, or blood-stained phlegm, stop use and contact your GP or call NHS 111 immediately.

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

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

Most people tolerate this syrup well, and side effects are generally uncommon when taken at the recommended dose. That said, it's important to know what to look out for. The most frequently reported side effects include:

  • Nausea
  • Stomach discomfort or upset
  • Vomiting — more likely if taken on an empty stomach

Taking the syrup with or after food, and drinking a full glass of water with each dose, can help reduce the likelihood of these effects occurring.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

Less commonly, some people may experience the following after taking guaifenesin-containing products:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Skin rash
  • Drowsiness (rare at standard doses)

If you notice a skin rash or any unusual reaction after taking this syrup, stop use immediately and speak to your pharmacist or GP. These reactions, while uncommon, may indicate a sensitivity to one of the ingredients.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

Serious side effects are rare with guaifenesin at OTC doses, but you should be aware of the signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Seek emergency medical help immediately if you experience any of the following:

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Severe skin rash, hives, or blistering
  • Sudden drop in blood pressure or feeling faint

Call 999 or go to your nearest A&E if you suspect anaphylaxis. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh?

For mild side effects such as nausea or stomach upset, try taking the syrup with food and ensure you're drinking enough water. If side effects are persistent, bothersome, or worsen over time, stop taking the product and speak to your pharmacist. You can also report any suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk — this helps improve medicine safety for everyone.

Can Lemsip Cough Mucus Cough & Catarrh Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions have been established for guaifenesin at standard OTC doses. However, you should always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are currently taking — including prescription medicines, other OTC products, and herbal remedies. Be particularly cautious about combining this syrup with other cold and flu combination products, as these may already contain guaifenesin, which could result in exceeding the recommended daily dose without realising it.

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

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery