Numark Children’s Tickly Cough (Glycerin Bp)

Numark Children’s Tickly Cough contains glycerin, a demulcent that coats the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. It is indicated for:

• Dry tickly cough in children: provides soothing relief of throat irritation and reduces cough frequency.
• Mild throat irritation: creates a protective film that eases discomfort.
• Cough associated with mild colds: helps keep the airway moist, supporting natural clearance.

• Glycerin acts as an osmotic demulcent that adheres to the mucosal surface of the oropharynx, forming a protective film. This film reduces sensory irritation, diminishes the cough reflex, and retains moisture, thereby easing dry, tickly coughs in pediatric patients.

Glycerin is generally well tolerated, but adverse reactions can occur.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset after ingestion.
• Taste alteration: temporary sweet or metallic taste.
• Diarrhoea: loose stools in sensitive individuals.
• Skin rash: mild erythema at the mouth or perioral area.
• Mild abdominal discomfort: transient cramping.
• Allergic itching: localized itching of the oral mucosa.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction with breathing difficulty.
• Severe bronchospasm: sudden tightening of airway muscles.
• Aspiration pneumonia: risk if the syrup is inhaled instead of swallowed.
• Persistent vomiting: may lead to dehydration.
• Hypersensitivity shock: systemic response requiring emergency care.
• Significant electrolyte imbalance: rare with excessive use.

When using Numark Children’s Tickly Cough, consider the following safety measures:

• Age limitation: not recommended for infants under 2 years of age.
• Allergy: avoid if the patient has known glycerin hypersensitivity.
• Diabetes caution: monitor blood glucose as the syrup may contain sugars.
• Concurrent demulcents: limit use with other cough syrups to prevent excess viscosity.
• Pregnancy and lactation: consult a healthcare professional before use.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Glycerin may interact with other medicines; the following interactions are recognised.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Co‑administration with other hyperosmolar agents: may cause electrolyte disturbances.
• Use with alcohol‑containing cough syrups: increases central nervous system depression risk.
• Combination with diuretics: can exacerbate dehydration.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antidiabetic drugs: sugar content may affect glucose control.
• Antihistamines: may increase sedation when both are used.
• Other demulcents: may lead to excessive gastrointestinal upset.
• Proton‑pump inhibitors: could alter gastric pH and affect syrup stability.