What type of cough medication do you need?

If a constant tickle in your throat has you on the search for relief, you may be frustrated to discover the many cough medications available. Where do you begin? Which is best?

What is the purpose of coughing?

Coughing is your body’s natural way of clearing mucus, germs and other irritants from your airway when you are sick. In fact, coughing can send particles flying at about 50 miles per hour, according to the American Lung Association.

“Coughing is a normal response to infection and irritation and helps clear your lungs and airways. Not all coughing needs to be suppressed,” explains Dr. Michael Fisher, a family medicine physician at Advocate Health Care. “But illnesses often spread through airborne particles, so protect others by covering your cough or wearing a mask. Also, wash your hands often.”

How to treat a cough

Many medications can help address your cough, including:

• Suppressant cough medicine. Suppressant cough medications usually contain dextromethorphan, an ingredient that decreases the urge to cough. There are long-acting formulations available that can work for up to 12 hours.
• Expectorant cough medicine. These generally contain guaifenesin, an ingredient that helps loosen and thin phlegm. This medication helps clear phlegm from your airway so you can breathe easier.
• Combination cough medicine. If you are looking to relieve the need to cough while also minimizing phlegm, a combination cough medicine may help.
• Antihistamines. Sometimes a persistent cough is caused by postnasal drip, so a simple antihistamine can be highly effective.

“Suppressant and expectorant cough medications are effective at targeting specific symptoms,” Dr. Fisher says. “Avoid multi-symptom cold medications as they often have significant side effects associated with their long ingredient lists. Sometimes simpler is better!”

Are cough medications safe?

“Just like any medication, follow the directions on the package,” Dr. Fisher says. “If you have concerns about whether it might interact with your medication or your chronic health condition, ask your health care provider.”

Remember that some ingredients may make you drowsy. Never drink alcohol or operate machinery when taking these medications. Additionally, cough medications are not recommended for children under the age of 4.

Do at-home cough remedies work?

Many at-home remedies can also provide relief, including:

• Staying hydrated
• Drinking warm tea or soup, especially if you have a sore throat
• Gargling salt water
• Sucking on cough drops
• Using a humidifier

“Steam can also be an effective way to breathe better and clear phlegm, which is why we usually feel better after a hot shower,” Dr. Fisher adds.

When to see a doctor for a cough

“If your cough lasts longer than three weeks, you cough up blood or you have chronic respiratory problems, like asthma, schedule an appointment with a health care provider,” Dr. Fisher advises. “They can prescribe you stronger cough medications, antibiotics if needed or an inhaler if your cough is asthma related. They may also recommend chest imaging.”

If you are having trouble breathing, seek emergency medical attention.

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