If you have
For dry cough
Use cough suppressant-Dextromethorphan
Dextromethorphan
(Brand Names: ROBUTUSSIN-DM®, DELSYM®, VICKS 44®)
May cause upset stomach & drowsiness
Regular release dextromethorphan
Shorter duration of effect compared to DELSYM®
May cause upset stomach & drowsiness
- Extended release dextromethorphan
- Effect last for 12 hours
How does cough suppressant work?
Productive cough
What you can do?
If you are congested and can cough up phlegm, a cool-mist humidifier can help stop a cough by reducing irritation in the pharynx and airways. The moisture from the steam also loosens secretions, making them easier to cough up.
Water is an excellent expectorant: drink plenty of fluids if you are congested. Hot liquids--chicken soup, tea and honey--work especially well.
OTC treatment for productive cough
Use an expectorant: Guaifenesin
make phlegm easier to cough up.
Help loosen lung secretions and make them easier to cough up.
Guaifenesin
(Brand Name: ROBITUSSIN®)
- Take with a full glass of water.
Methol Cough drops
(Brand Names: ROBITUSSIN® cough drops, HALLS®-metholyptus)
Don't give lozenges to children under age 6 because they can be a choking hazard.
Chest Rub
(Brand Names: METHOLATUM®, VICKS VAPORUB®)
Give off vapors that can numb the throat and relieve a cough
FAQ: There are many different formulations of ROBITUSSIN® on the shelf. Which one should I get?
References:
American Pharmaceutical Association. Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. (Washington, DC: American Pharmaceutical Association, 1996).
The Merck Manual Home Edition, 1999