Decongestant and Antihistamine combination (cold and catarrh relief)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination medicine (found in Vadilyn Decongestant Syrup) that works in several ways — pseudoephedrine opens up blocked nose passages, diphenhydramine stops allergic reactions like sneezing and runny nose, sodium citrate helps loosen thick mucus in your chest, and menthol gives a cooling feeling that makes breathing easier.
Activates α-adrenergic receptors in nasal mucosa causing vasoconstriction and reducing nasal congestion, while simultaneously blocking H1 histamine receptors to suppress allergic symptoms and inflammatory responses; menthol acts as a topical cooling agent to enhance perceived airway patency, and sodium citrate helps expectorate and thin respiratory secretions.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist — no prescription needed.
Is Pseudoephedrine safe to take with another drug?
Check with multiple drugs →Explore this drug
For adults, take 2 teaspoonfuls (10 ml) of the syrup 3 times a day. You can take it with or without food. If it makes your stomach uncomfortable, take it with a little food. Do not take more than the recommended dose, and try not to take it too close to bedtime as pseudoephedrine can keep you awake, even though the diphenhydramine may make you sleepy.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
Buy only from a licensed pharmacy — avoid buying syrups from roadside sellers or open markets as they may be fake or expired. This syrup can make you very drowsy, so do not drive or operate machines like generators after taking it. Do not combine it with other cough and cold syrups you bought separately, as you may accidentally overdose on similar ingredients.
Do not take with alcohol — combining it with this syrup can make you extremely drowsy and dangerously dizzy. Avoid taking it with other cold or cough medicines as they may contain similar ingredients and cause an overdose. If you are taking medicines for high blood pressure or depression (especially MAO inhibitors), talk to your doctor or pharmacist first as this drug can cause dangerous reactions.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Pseudoephedrine with your other drugs?
This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding — consult your doctor before using it, as some of the ingredients can affect your baby.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it near windows or in a hot car. Keep the bottle tightly closed to prevent moisture from getting in. Always keep it out of the reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.