Antitussives : Complete Guide : Your online pharmacy selection

Cough suppressants are a valuable ally against dry, irritative coughs, provided you choose the right type and follow the recommendations for use. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized, appropriate advice.

What are cough suppressants?

A cough suppressant is a medicine designed to relieve coughs, whether dry or productive. It works by reducing irritation of the airways or inhibiting the cough reflex in the brain. They are available in various forms: syrups, tablets, capsules or lozenges.

What are the different types of cough suppressants?

There are two main categories of cough suppressants:

1. Central antitussives: These act on the cough center in the brain to reduce the urge to cough. Some of these contain codeine or dextromethorphan.
2. Peripheral cough suppressants: These drugs act locally on the respiratory tract to soothe irritation. They are often recommended for dry, irritative coughs.

How to choose the right cough suppressant?

The choice of cough suppressant should be based on the type of cough:

• For a dry, irritative cough, choose a central cough suppressant that will suppress the cough reflex.
• For a productive cough, it is often advisable not to suppress the cough, but to encourage expectoration. However, in the event of a productive cough that disturbs at night, an antitussive may be considered to ensure better rest.

When should I take a cough suppressant?

A cough suppressant is recommended for dry coughs that interfere with sleep or daily activities. However, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional before starting any treatment to make sure it's right for you.

Are there any side effects?

Like all medications, cough suppressants can have side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, nausea or constipation, especially those containing codeine. It's important to stick to the recommended dosages, and to consult a doctor if in doubt.

Can I take cough medicines if I'm pregnant or breast-feeding?

The use of cough suppressants during pregnancy or while breast-feeding requires particular care. Certain ingredients, notably codeine, are not recommended as they may affect fetal development or pass into breast milk. It is imperative to consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication in these situations.

Can children use cough suppressants?

The use of cough suppressants in children should be approached with caution. For children under the age of 6, the use of cough medicines is generally not recommended, due to the lack of evidence on their efficacy and the potential risk of side effects. More natural remedies should be preferred, and a pediatrician should be consulted.

Can I drive after taking a cough suppressant?

Some cough suppressants, particularly those containing codeine or dextromethorphan, can induce drowsiness or dizziness. These effects may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. We recommend that you read the package leaflet carefully and avoid driving if you experience these symptoms.

Are there natural alternatives to cough suppressants?

Yes, a number of natural remedies can help relieve coughs. Honey, for example, is renowned for its soothing properties on the throat. Regular hydration and steam inhalation can also help thin mucus and soothe coughs. However, these alternatives are no substitute for medical advice in the event of a persistent cough.

How to prevent coughs without resorting to cough suppressants?

To prevent coughs, it's advisable to adopt a healthy lifestyle: avoid smoking, keep well hydrated, wash your hands regularly to limit respiratory infections, and use a humidifier if necessary to maintain a comfortable level of humidity at home. A diet rich in fruit and vegetables, sources of vitamins, can also boost the immune system.