COUGH MEDICINES (dry cough and wet/productive cough)

 In India, a variety of cough medicines are available to treat different types of coughs, which can be broadly categorized as dry cough and wet/productive cough. Cough medicines can be classified into two primary categories:

1. Cough Suppressants (Antitussives):

These are used to treat dry cough, where there is no mucus production. A dry cough is often caused by irritation in the throat or respiratory tract, and the primary aim of treatment is to suppress the cough reflex.

• Common Ingredients:
  • Dextromethorphan: A common cough suppressant used to reduce the urge to cough.
  • Codeine: An opioid-based suppressant that works to inhibit the cough reflex. (Requires prescription in India due to its potential for misuse).
  • Pholcodine: Another suppressant similar to codeine but with fewer side effects.
• Examples of Suppressants in India:
• Benadryl Cough Syrup (Non-Drowsy): Contains dextromethorphan.

• Tossex Syrup: Contains a combination of suppressants and antihistamines.

2. Expectorants and Mucolytics:

These are used for wet or productive cough, where there is mucus (phlegm) present. The aim is to thin the mucus, making it easier to cough out.

• Common Ingredients:
  • Guaifenesin: An expectorant that helps loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to clear.
  • Ambroxol: A mucolytic that thins the mucus and helps to improve the clearance of sputum.
  • Bromhexine: Also works as a mucolytic.
• Examples of Expectorants in India:
  • Ascoril LS Syrup: Contains a combination of ambroxol, guaifenesin, and other bronchodilators.
  • Grilinctus BM: Another common syrup for wet coughs with bromhexine.

Combination Medicines:

Many over-the-counter cough syrups in India contain a mix of antitussives, expectorants, decongestants, and antihistamines, designed to treat a variety of symptoms like coughing, nasal congestion, and throat irritation.

• Common Combinations:
• Benadryl Original: Contains both expectorants and antihistamines.
• Corex DX: Contains dextromethorphan and chlorpheniramine (an antihistamine).

Over-the-Counter vs. Prescription:

• Over-the-counter (OTC) cough syrups: Many cough syrups with ingredients like dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and bromhexine are available without a prescription.
• Prescription-only medicines: Cough syrups with codeine and certain strong antihistamines or bronchodilators require a doctor’s prescription due to the risk of misuse or side effects.

Caution and Side Effects:

• Side effects of cough medicines may include drowsiness (especially those with antihistamines), dizziness, dry mouth, or nausea.
• Codeine-containing syrups should be used cautiously due to their potential for addiction and respiratory depression in some cases.

Ayurvedic Cough Syrups:

India also has a strong tradition of Ayurvedic medicine, and Ayurvedic cough syrups made from herbal ingredients like tulsi (holy basil), mulethi (licorice), and ginger are popular.

• Popular Ayurvedic Cough Syrups:
• Dabur Honitus: Contains natural ingredients like tulsi, mulethi, and honey.

              

• Zandu Cough Syrup: Also made from Ayurvedic herbs.

Availability and Brands:

Popular pharmaceutical companies like Cipla, Mankind Pharma, Dabur, and Zandu produce a variety of cough syrups in India. These are available in medical stores and often recommended by pharmacists or doctors based on the type of cough.

Always consult a healthcare professional before using cough medicine, especially for prolonged symptoms or if the cough is accompanied by other serious signs such as fever, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.