Over-the-counter versus prescription cough medications: Different kinds and additional information
Cough medications, available both over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription, are designed to help alleviate the discomfort caused by a persistent cough. These medications typically contain a combination of active ingredients, each with its unique role in managing cough symptoms.
Antitussives and Expectorants
OTC cough medications include antitussives, such as dextromethorphan, and expectorants like guaifenesin. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that reduces the cough reflex, particularly effective for dry (non-productive) coughs, while guaifenesin is an expectorant that loosens and thins mucus, helping clear productive (wet) coughs.
Prescription cough medications may contain higher doses of these active ingredients, such as benzonatate, a prescription antitussive that numbs the throat and lungs, reducing the cough reflex.
Other Active Ingredients
Other common active ingredients found in cough medications include antihistamines, decongestants, and menthol. Antihistamines, like diphenhydramine and loratadine, can have some antitussive effects, particularly if the cough is due to an itching throat from allergies. Decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine, help reduce nasal congestion and postnasal drip, which can trigger coughing. Menthol, found in cough drops, provides a cooling effect that soothes throat irritation.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
Each active ingredient in cough medications has specific side effects and precautions. For example, dextromethorphan is generally well-tolerated but can cause dizziness or nausea in some individuals. Guaifenesin is usually safe, but possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, or rash. Antihistamines commonly cause drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness, while decongestants can increase blood pressure, cause nervousness, insomnia, and headache.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using cough medications if you have underlying health conditions, are taking other medications with potential interactions, or if the cough is persistent or severe. This includes individuals with chronic lung disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, glaucoma, thyroid disease, kidney disease, or seizure disorders. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under certain ages, and those uncertain about the appropriate medicine should also seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Other Considerations
Vapor rubs are another type of medication used to help relieve a cough, but there is limited evidence to support their efficacy. Hydrocodone is a type of prescription antitussive medication, and prescription cough medications also come in both antitussive and expectorant forms. Promethazine is another type of prescription antitussive that works by suppressing histamine receptors in the nervous system.
In conclusion, it is essential to understand the active ingredients in cough medications, their specific uses, side effects, and precautions. Consulting a healthcare professional before use is crucial, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or taking other medications. Carefully reading labels and adhering to dosing instructions are crucial to safe use. If a cough persists for more than a few weeks, it is advisable to speak with a doctor.
- For health-and-wellness shoppers seeking relief from a persistent cough, retail outlets carry both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription cough medications.
- Cough suppressants like dextromethorphan, found in OTC medications, are effective for dry (non-productive) coughs by reducing the cough reflex, while expectorants like guaifenesin loosen and thin mucus, helpful for productive (wet) coughs.
- Beyond these commonly used active ingredients, other medications for relieving cough symptoms include antihistamines, decongestants, and menthol, each with specific side effects and precautions.
- Therapies-and-treatments for coughs, such as vapor rubs, may have limited evidence supporting their efficacy, and it's always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use.
- Nutrition plays a vital role in managing medical-conditions that may cause coughing, such as allergies; therefore, maintaining a balanced diet and incorporating fitness-and-exercise into everyday life can support overall health and wellness.
