Infant Syrup Apple Flavour 3+ Months, 125ml Calcough

What Is Infant Cough Syrup and How Can Calcough Help Your Baby?

When your baby develops a cough, it can be distressing for the whole family. Watching a little one struggle to settle, especially at night, leaves most parents searching for something safe and effective. Infant cough syrup formulated specifically for young babies is one of the few options available over the counter in the UK, and Calcough Infant Syrup Apple Flavour 125ml is designed precisely for this age group — suitable from just 3 months old. At only £4.73, it offers an accessible, pharmacist-recommended choice for parents who want gentle relief without a GP visit.

Coughs in babies are extremely common and are usually caused by minor upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold. The NHS advises that most coughs in children clear up on their own within three weeks, but that doesn't make the waiting any easier. You can browse our baby and toddler range for additional products to support your little one's comfort during illness.

How Does Calcough Infant Syrup Work to Soothe a Cough?

Calcough Infant Syrup works through a demulcent mechanism. Rather than suppressing the cough reflex with pharmaceutical agents — which are not recommended for children under 6 in the UK — it uses glycerol to coat and soothe the lining of the throat. This reduces the irritation that triggers coughing in the first place.

• Glycerol forms a protective, soothing layer over the throat mucosa
• This coating reduces the nerve irritation that causes the cough reflex to fire
• The apple flavour makes it more palatable for young infants
• It is sugar-free and alcohol-free, so it won't harm developing teeth or cause sedation

Who Should Use Calcough Infant Syrup — Is It Right for Your Baby?

This syrup is specifically formulated for infants aged 3 months and over. It is not suitable for newborns. If your baby is under 3 months and has a cough, you should contact your GP or call NHS 111 rather than using any over-the-counter remedy.

Calcough Infant Syrup may be appropriate if your baby:

• Is aged 3 months or older
• Has a dry, irritating cough associated with a cold or mild upper respiratory infection
• Is otherwise well — feeding normally, no high fever, no breathing difficulties
• Has not been diagnosed with asthma or a chronic respiratory condition

How Does Calcough Infant Syrup Compare to Other Baby Cough Remedies?

How Should You Store Calcough Infant Syrup and Is It Clinically Suitable?

This infant cough syrup should be stored below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and kept out of reach of children. Do not refrigerate. Once opened, check the product label for any in-use shelf life guidance. If the syrup changes colour, smell, or consistency, do not use it.

From a clinical suitability standpoint, glycerol-based syrups are considered appropriate for young infants because they carry no risk of sedation, respiratory depression, or antihistamine-related effects. The MHRA has previously advised against the use of cough and cold medicines containing active pharmacological agents in children under 6, which is why demulcent-based products like this one remain a sensible choice. If your baby has any known allergies or is taking other medicines, speak to your pharmacist before use. You may also find our cold and flu collection helpful for managing associated symptoms in older family members.

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.

What Is Calcough Infant Syrup and What Is It Used For?

Calcough Infant Syrup Apple Flavour is an oral demulcent syrup used to relieve the symptoms of dry, tickly, or irritating coughs in babies aged 3 months and over. It contains glycerol as its active ingredient, which works by forming a soothing coating over the throat lining to reduce irritation. It does not contain any cough suppressants, antihistamines, or decongestants — all of which are unsuitable for this age group according to MHRA guidance.

This syrup is intended for short-term symptomatic relief only. It does not treat the underlying cause of a cough, such as a viral infection. If your baby's cough is accompanied by a high temperature, difficulty breathing, wheezing, or poor feeding, seek medical advice promptly rather than relying on any over-the-counter remedy.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Calcough Infant Syrup?

Before giving this syrup to your baby, read the following carefully.

Do not use Calcough Infant Syrup if your baby:

• Is under 3 months of age
• Has a known allergy or hypersensitivity to glycerol or any other ingredient in the product
• Has a cough associated with asthma, croup, or a diagnosed respiratory condition — seek medical advice first
• Has a persistent cough lasting more than 5 days without improvement

Drug interactions:

• No clinically significant drug interactions are known for glycerol-based demulcent syrups at the doses used in this product
• If your baby is taking any prescribed medicines, always check with your pharmacist before introducing any new product

How Should You Use Calcough Infant Syrup Correctly?

Always follow the dosage instructions on the product label or as directed by your pharmacist. Use the measuring device supplied with the product to ensure accuracy — never estimate doses using a household teaspoon, as these vary in size and can lead to under- or over-dosing.

1. Shake the bottle gently before each use
2. Measure the correct dose using the supplied oral syringe or measuring spoon
3. Administer the syrup directly into your baby's mouth, aiming for the inside of the cheek
4. Do not mix with formula, breast milk, or other liquids unless specifically advised
5. Replace the cap securely after each use and store correctly

Always refer to the product label for the most current dosage guidance, as formulations can vary between batches.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Calcough Infant Syrup?

Calcough Infant Syrup is generally very well tolerated in infants. Because it contains glycerol rather than pharmacologically active agents, the side effect profile is minimal. That said, no medicine is entirely without risk, and you should be aware of the following.

Common side effects:

• Mild stomach discomfort or bloating
• Loose stools or slightly increased bowel frequency — glycerol can have a mild laxative effect in some infants

Less common side effects:

• Nausea or vomiting (rare at recommended doses)
• Allergic reaction — though uncommon, signs include rash, swelling of the face or lips, or difficulty breathing. Stop use immediately and call 999 if this occurs

If you notice any side effect not listed here, stop using the product and speak to your pharmacist or GP. You can also report suspected side effects to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. For broader support with your baby's health, our baby and toddler collection includes a range of products to help manage common infant ailments.

How Should You Store Calcough Infant Syrup Safely?

Correct storage helps maintain the product's quality and safety throughout its shelf life.

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
• Do not refrigerate or freeze
• Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
• Always keep out of the sight and reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label
• If the syrup appears discoloured or has an unusual smell, do not use it — return it to your pharmacist for safe disposal

If you need further advice on managing your baby's cough or cold symptoms, the NHS website provides clear, up-to-date guidance for parents. You can also explore our ear, nose and throat range for related products suitable for older children and adults in the family.