Glossary > Healthcare > Pharmacy Services > Over-the-Counter Medications

Cough Suppressants

Cough suppressants are medications that help reduce or stop coughing. They work by affecting the brain's cough center to decrease the urge to cough.

Example #1

Taking a cough suppressant syrup to alleviate a persistent cough that keeps you up at night.

Example #2

Using lozenges with cough suppressant properties to soothe a throat tickle that triggers coughing fits.

Misuse

Misusing cough suppressants involves taking them for a cough that is productive (bringing up mucus or phlegm) because it can prevent the body from clearing the airways effectively. This misuse can lead to potential complications by suppressing a productive cough's intended function of removing irritants or infectious agents from the lungs.

Benefits

The benefits of cough suppressants include relieving a dry, non-productive cough that disrupts sleep or daily activities. By reducing the frequency of coughing, suppressants can provide relief from the discomfort associated with persistent coughing spells.

Conclusion

It's important for consumers to understand that cough suppressants should be used specifically for dry, irritating coughs and not for productive coughs that clear the airways. Misuse of cough suppressants can hinder the body's natural defense mechanism, leading to potential health risks.

Last Modified: 4/30/2024