Comment
Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Children under 2, and most drug manufacturers caution against their use in children 4 and under.Parents and caregivers should be cautious when giving cough or cold medicine to older children. Carefully read the instructions on the medication’s packaging and follow them exactly.If you notice any worrying side effects after giving an older child OTC medicine, seek medical attention right away.Types of cough medicineThere are five primary types of cough medicine.AntitussivesAntitussives, also known as cough suppressants, are a family of drugs designed to suppress coughing. They do this by acting on the brain's cough reflex.Dextromethorphan is a common antitussive ingredient in many over-the-counter cough medicines. It can be found in its generic form or under various brand names.Over-the-counter cough medicines that contain dextromethorphan include:DelsymTussinRobitussin Cough Gels & Cough SyrupVicks 44 Dry Cough ReliefSide effects of antitussive use include:Dizziness,Drowsiness,Nausea,ConstipationPrescription antitussive medicines often contain codeine, which is a controlled substance. Misuse or overuse of prescription antitussives can lead to dependency and addiction. However, there are some prescription antitussives that do not come with this risk.BenzonatateBenzonatate is a commonly prescribed antitussive medicine for severe cough. Unlike other prescription cough medicines, benzonatate is not classified as a controlled substance. It has been shown to cause some side effects, including:NauseaHeadachesDrowsinessConstipationStuffy nosePregnant or nursing women should exercise caution and talk to their healthcare provider before using antitussives.ExpectorantsExpectorant medications thin mucus and phlegm from the respiratory system. The body expels thinned mucus through a wet cough, which can relieve chest congestion.Guaifenesin is a common active ingredient in expectorants. It is available as an oral tablet, capsule, solution, or syrup in its generic form or under various brand names. Guaifenesin's side effects are generally mild. Most older children and adults tolerate most OTC cough medications well.OTC cough medicines containing guaifenesin include:MucinexGuaifenesinAntihistaminesAntihistamines are effective at easing coughing when caused by an allergic reaction. Antihistamines work by blocking the action of histamine, which can help reduce coughing associated with allergic reactions and postnasal drip.Antihistamines may not be as effective for coughs caused by conditions other than allergies, such as the common cold.Antihistamines are available as oral tablets, capsules, or nasal sprays.Common OTC antihistamines include:Cetirizine (generic for Zyrtec)Loratadine (generic for Alavert and Claritin)DiphenhydramineFexofenadineBrompheniramine (generic for Dimetane)Chlorpheniramine (generic for Chlor-Trimeton)Clemastine (generic for Dayhist)Doxylamine (generic for Vicks NyQuil)Antihistamine use has been shown to cause some side effects. These are generally mild, and most OTC antihistamines are well tolerated.Side effects include:DizzinessDry mouthNausea and vomitingDifficulty with
Add Comment