Costa 375mg Capsules

Carbocisteine is a mucolytic. It makes phlegm (mucus) less thick and sticky, so it is easier to cough up.

It is used for long-term lung conditions that cause a lot of thick phlegm, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and sometimes for cystic fibrosis.

It starts working straight away, but it may take a while to notice your symptoms improving.

Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you, usually several times a day.

• You can take it with or without food. Swallow capsules whole.
• Measure liquids with the syringe or spoon provided, not a kitchen teaspoon.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless the next dose is due within 2 hours; then skip it. Never take two doses together.
• Keep taking it even if you do not notice a change straight away. Your doctor may suggest stopping if it has not helped after about a month.

Common side effects include:

• diarrhoea (drink plenty of fluids)
• feeling sick (taking it after food may help)

Get medical help straight away if you have:

• blood in your vomit, or black, tarry stools
• swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue or throat, trouble breathing or swallowing, or a blistering or peeling rash (a serious allergic reaction)

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you:

• have had an allergic reaction to carbocisteine or another medicine
• have or have had a stomach ulcer
• are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding

It is suitable for most adults and children aged 2 and over.

Store as directed on the pack or leaflet, and keep out of the reach of children. Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Pregnancy: it is not generally recommended in the first 3 months of pregnancy. Your doctor may suggest another medicine.

Breastfeeding: it is usually fine if your baby is healthy, but check with your doctor.

Contraception: severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours or vomiting may stop the pill from working; check your pill leaflet.

Alcohol and driving: you can drink alcohol and drive while taking it.