July 3, 2025, Ahmedabad, India: Cadila Pharmaceuticals Limited, one of India’s most respected and innovation-driven pharmaceutical companies, has announced the launch of Bilacad Dex Syrup, to address the increasing burden of respiratory and allergy-related conditions with a novel fixed-dose combination of Bilastine, Dextromethorphan, and Phenylephrine.

Bilacad Dex Syrup is specifically formulated to target multiple symptoms associated with the common cold and allergic rhinitis, including cough, nasal congestion, and allergic manifestations such as sneezing and itching. Its three active pharmaceutical ingredients work in synergy to deliver rapid and sustained relief:

• Bilastine (3.3 mg/5ml) – A second-generation, non-sedating antihistamine that effectively manages allergic symptoms without causing drowsiness, making it ideal for daytime use.
• Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (10 mg per 5ml) – A centrally acting antitussive that suppresses the cough reflex at the medullary level, providing relief from persistent, dry cough without impairing respiratory function.
• Phenylephrine Hydrochloride (5 mg per 5ml) – A selective alpha-adrenergic receptor agonist that reduces nasal swelling through vasoconstriction, offering targeted decongestion without stimulating the central nervous system.

Bilacad Dex Syrup represents Cadila Pharmaceuticals’ strategic expansion into combination therapies that cater to the evolving needs of patients and prescribers seeking efficient multi-symptom relief. It is poised to make a meaningful impact in the ₹4,709 crore Indian cough syrup market.

Backed by Clinical Evidence

An open-label, randomized, multicenter trial comparing the Bilastine-Dextromethorphan-Phenylephrine (BDP) combination with a market competitor demonstrated non-inferiority in efficacy and safety. Subjects reported significant improvement in symptoms without sedation, affirming Bilacad Dex Syrup’s suitability for both adults and adolescents. The trial’s findings, published in Cureus (DOI: 10.7759/cureus.75836), support the use of this combination as an effective and safe alternative to older sedative antihistamine-based treatments.

Meeting Patient Needs in a Fast-Paced World

Bilacad Dex Syrup is designed for oral administration and is indicated for adults and children aged 12 years and above, at a dosage of 10 ml three times daily. The syrup is well tolerated in elderly populations, and its use is not recommended for children under 12 for more than 7 days. Moreover, Bilacad Dex is especially suitable for professionals, students, and active individuals who seek effective symptom relief without compromising alertness and productivity.
Speaking on the launch, a senior spokesperson from CPL said, “With Bilacad Dex Syrup, we are offering physicians and patients a scientifically validated, non-sedating, and all-in-one solution for respiratory discomfort and allergic symptoms. This product reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation, affordability, and patient well-being.”

Availability and Safety

Bilacad Dex Syrup will be made available across India through CPL’s extensive distribution network. It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding and contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to any ingredient. No dosage adjustment is necessary in elderly patients who are more than 65 years old. Its accessible pricing strategy reflects Cadila Pharmaceuticals’ ongoing vision to make high-quality healthcare more affordable and patient-friendly.