Best Cough Syrups of 2026

Phoebe Cooper Avatar
Phoebe Cooper
Last Updated: 12 Feb 2026

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Cough syrups are a common remedy for relieving coughs and other respiratory symptoms. They come in a range of flavours and formulations, including those for dry or chesty coughs, and can be purchased over-the-counter or prescribed by a doctor. Cough syrups typically contain active ingredients such as guaifenesin or dextromethorphan, which work to loosen mucus and suppress coughs respectively. While they can be effective in treating coughs, it is important to follow dosage instructions and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Bronchostop Cough Multi-Symptom Syrup 200ml Cover #TOP 1
Bronchostop Cough Multi-Symptom Syrup 200ml
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Benylin Dry and Tickly Cough Syrup Cover #TOP 2
Benylin Dry and Tickly Cough Syrup
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Covonia Dry & Tickly Cough Linctus Relief Cover #TOP 3
Covonia Dry & Tickly Cough Linctus Relief
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Cough Syrups

#TOP 1

Bronchostop Cough Multi-Symptom Syrup 200ml

Pink
One Size
Bronchostop Cough Multi-Symptom Syrup 200ml Cover
Bronchostop 5in1 Cough Multi-Symptom Action Syrup 200ml

Bronchostop Cough Syrup offers effective relief from all types of coughs and sore throats caused by colds. Its pleasant lemon and lime flavour, combined with a hint of menthol, makes taking medicine a more enjoyable experience. Being sugar, alcohol, lactose, and gluten free means you can use it without worrying about additional ingredients. This syrup is formulated with natural ingredients like marshmallow and Icelandic moss, providing soothing benefits that can ease your discomfort and promote a quicker recovery.

What We Like
Natural ingredients
Sugar and gluten free
Pleasant flavour
Suitable for adults and teens
Effective relief from coughs
#TOP 2

Benylin Dry and Tickly Cough Syrup

92144
White
150ml
Benylin Dry and Tickly Cough Syrup Cover
Benylin Dry and Tickly Cough Syrup (1x 150ml), Cough Medicine for Adults and Children, Glycerol and Sucrose Soothing Syrup Relieves Irritated and Sore Throat

Benylin Cough Syrup offers clinically proven relief for dry and tickly coughs. It effectively soothes the irritating tickly sensation in your throat, allowing you to get on with your day without constant coughing. With its non-drowsy formula, you can feel relief from irritating coughs and sore throats without the worry of feeling sleepy. Additionally, it coats your throat to protect against irritants like smoke or dust particles, giving you comfort when you need it most.

What We Like
Clinically proven relief
Soothes throat irritation
Non-drowsy formula
Protects against irritants
#TOP 3

Covonia Dry & Tickly Cough Linctus Relief

155449.0
300ml
Covonia Dry & Tickly Cough Linctus Relief Cover
Covonia Dry & Tickly Cough Linctus Soothes And Provides Relief From Dry Coughs And Sore Throats Non Drowsy Cough Syrup Suitable For Vegetarians Cold And Flu Relief, 300ml (Always read Label First)

Covonia Cough Linctus provides targeted relief for dry coughs and tickly throats, ensuring you can breathe easier. The inclusion of glycerin helps soothe that annoying tickly sensation by coating your throat, offering comfort when you need it most. Its non-drowsy formula means you can tackle your day without feeling sleepy, allowing you to recover and return to your routine. Suitable for adults and children aged 12 and above, this syrup is also vegetarian-friendly, making it accessible for a wider audience.

What We Like
Effective cough relief
Soothes tickly throats
Non-drowsy formula
Vegetarian-friendly
#TOP 4

Covonia Chesty Cough Sugar Free Syrup

3882933
Colourless
150ml
Covonia Chesty Cough Sugar Free Syrup Cover
Covonia Chesty Cough Sugar Free Syrup Loosen Chesty Coughs & Troublesome Stubborn Mucus Alcohol Free Suitable For Vegetarians & Vegans For Adults & Children Aged 12 + Cough Medicine 150ml

Covonia Cough Syrup is expertly formulated to provide targeted relief for your chesty cough by loosening stubborn mucus and phlegm. Being both sugar and alcohol-free, it allows you to manage your symptoms without the added concerns of these ingredients. You can continue with your day-to-day activities, as this syrup helps alleviate discomfort from cold symptoms. Additionally, it is suitable for adults and children aged 12 and above, making it a versatile choice for various dietary needs, including vegetarians and those with coeliac disease.

What We Like
Targeted relief for chesty coughs
Sugar and alcohol-free formula
Suitable for adults and children
Meets diverse dietary needs
Helps ease cold symptoms
#TOP 5

Benylin Mucus Cough Max Menthol Flavour Syrup

109264405
Multicolour
150 ml (Pack of 1)
Benylin Mucus Cough Max Menthol Flavour Syrup Cover
Benylin Mucus Cough Max Menthol Flavour, Helps to Clear Chest Mucus from Day 1, Cough Medicine for Adults, 100 mg/5 ml Oral Solution, 150 ml

The Benylin Mucus Cough Max is designed to reduce the intensity of your cough from the very first day, offering you quick relief. It contains guaifenesin, an expectorant that helps to loosen and thin chest mucus, making it easier for you to cough up and clear your chest. The unique menthol formula provides a soothing sensation and an invigorating taste, which can make taking the medicine more pleasant. As a maximum strength formula, you can feel it working effectively to ease your cough symptoms and improve your breathing comfort.

What We Like
Reduces cough intensity quickly
Loosens chest mucus effectively
Soothing menthol flavour
Maximum strength formula
#TOP 6

Bronchostop Cough Syrup for All Coughs

5000006440
Other
200 ml (Pack of 1)
Bronchostop Cough Syrup for All Coughs Cover
Bronchostop Cough Syrup 200ml - Used for Relief for Dry or Chesty Coughs - with Thyme Herb and Marshmallow Root Extract - Non Drowsy Cough Medicine That Can Be Diluted or Undiluted

Bronchostop Cough Syrup is designed to help relieve various types of coughs, including dry, chesty, tickly, and mucus coughs. With its key ingredients, thyme herb extract and marshmallow root extract, this syrup provides effective support for your throat. You can take it undiluted or mix it with water or warm tea, ensuring you stay alert as it is non-drowsy. Being alcohol-free, it simplifies your choice during the entire cough cycle, making it suitable for both adults and children over 12.

What We Like
Effective for various cough types
Non-drowsy formula
Alcohol-free medicine
Easy to take
Suitable for ages 12
#TOP 7

Benylin Chesty Coughs Non-Drowsy Syrup 150ml

100692606
150 ml (Pack of 1)
Benylin Chesty Coughs Non-Drowsy Syrup 150ml Cover
Benylin Chesty Coughs Non-Drowsy (1x 150ml), Non-Drowsy Cough Syrup for Deep Penetrating Relief, For Mucus Relief and Reduces Chest Congestion, Cough Syrup Soothes Your Cough Fast

Benylin Chesty Coughs is designed to provide fast relief from chesty coughs from day one, helping to reduce the intensity of your cough as soon as symptoms start. It contains Guaifenesin, an expectorant that thins mucus in your chest, making it easier for you to cough it up and clear your airways. Suitable for both adults and children aged 12 and over, this non-drowsy syrup allows you to stay alert while soothing your cough. Its clinical backing ensures you can trust it to help stop your cough quickly and effectively.

What We Like
Starts working from day one
Thins chest mucus effectively
Non-drowsy formula
Suitable for 12 years and over
Clinically proven relief
#TOP 8

Benylin Mucus Cough Max Honey & Lemon Syrup

91604
Green
150ml
Benylin Mucus Cough Max Honey & Lemon Syrup Cover
Benylin Mucus Cough Max Honey and Lemon Flavour (1x 150ml), 100 mg/5 ml Cough Syrup, Reduces Cough Intensity, For Deep Penetrating Relief, Cough Medicine for Adults

Benylin Cough Max Syrup is designed to provide deep relief from mucus coughs. With its honey and lemon flavour, you will immediately appreciate the soothing sensation it offers, making your experience more pleasant. This syrup contains guaifenesin, an effective expectorant that helps thin mucus, allowing you to cough it up more easily. This can be especially beneficial when you're feeling congested, helping you breathe easier and feel more comfortable.

What We Like
Soothing honey and lemon taste
Helps relieve mucus in chest
Effective expectorant action
Deep penetrating relief
#TOP 9

Benylin Non-Drowsy Chesty Cough Syrup 300ml

100692649
300ml
Benylin Non-Drowsy Chesty Cough Syrup 300ml Cover
Benylin Chesty Coughs Non-Drowsy (1x 300ml), Cough Syrup for Deep Penetrating Relief, For Mucus Relief and Reduces Chest Congestion, Cough Syrup Soothes Your Cough Fast

Benylin Chesty Cough Syrup is designed to relieve chesty coughs effectively. This product contains guaifenesin, which helps to loosen mucus in your lungs, making it easier for you to cough it up. Additionally, it includes levomenthol, which aids in easing congestion, allowing you to breathe more easily. It is important to note that you must be over 18 years old to purchase this syrup. With its non-drowsy formula, you can take it without worrying about feeling sleepy during the day.

What We Like
Relieves chesty coughs effectively
Loosens mucus in lungs
Eases congestion for easier breathing
Non-drowsy formula
Suitable for adults over 18
#TOP 10

Bronchostop Cough Syrup for Any Cough

5000006439
Other
120 ml (Pack of 1)
Bronchostop Cough Syrup for Any Cough Cover
Bronchostop Cough Syrup (120ml) - Relief for Dry or Chesty Coughs - with Natural Thyme Herb and Marshmallow Root Extract - Non Drowsy Cough Medicine That Can Be Diluted & Undiluted - Alcohol Free

Bronchostop Cough Syrup is designed to provide relief for various types of coughs, including dry, chesty, tickly, and mucus coughs. With its key ingredients, thyme herb extract and marshmallow root extract, you can trust it to soothe your throat and ease discomfort. Unlike many cough syrups, this non-drowsy formula allows you to stay alert, whether you take it undiluted or mixed with water or warm tea. Being alcohol-free makes it a hassle-free choice for your entire cough cycle, suitable for adults and children over 12, including those with specific health concerns.

What We Like
Effective for multiple cough types
Non-drowsy formulation
Alcohol-free option
Suitable for various health conditions
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our cough syrup research, we found 100+ cough syrup products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 102,191 customer reviews through our big data system to write the cough syrups list. We found that most customers choose cough syrups with an average price of £6.11.

The cough syrups are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of cough syrups, including Bronchostop, Benylin, Covonia.

Written by
Phoebe Cooper Avatar

In 2000, Phoebe Cooper graduated from the University of London as a Pharmacist. She practiced as a Pharmacist for the better part of 2 decades. Phoebe says she has worked in the majority of health sectors and has sufficient accumulated knowledge and experience. In her practice, Phoebe published a series of eBooks, one of which is titled "Good Health Good Living."