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cough drugs

Dextromethorphan

it is a cough suppressant which has central action on cough center in the medulla. it is used for relief of unproductive cough.

  1. suitable for dry cough in adults and children over 6 years old
  2. acts on the cough center in the brain to reduce cough reflex
  3. common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness and nausea

guaifenesin

it is a directly acting expectorant administered to increase the volume and reduce viscosity of bronchial secretion and hence cough facilitates the removal.

  1. suitable for wet or productive cough to loosen and clear mucus
  2. acts by thinning and increasing the flow of respiratory tract secretions
  3. usually well tolerated medication

codeine

it

  1. suitable for persistent or severe cough, but not recommended for children
  2. acts by suppressing the cough reflex of CNS
  3. common side effects include drowsiness, constipation and nausea