Best Over The Counter Medicine For A Cough
Coughing is a reflex action that helps clear your airways of mucus, irritants, and other foreign particles. It can be caused by various factors such as allergies, colds, flu, and respiratory infections. Coughing can be very frustrating and uncomfortable, especially when it persists for an extended period. One way to alleviate this discomfort is by using over-the-counter (OTC) cough medicines. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the best OTC medicine for a cough.
Types of Cough Medicines
Before we delve into the best OTC cough medicines, let's first understand the different types of cough medicines. There are two main types:
Expectorants
Expectorants are cough medicines that help loosen the mucus in your airways, making it easier to cough it out. They work by thinning the mucus, making it less sticky and more liquid-like. This allows you to cough up the mucus and clear your airways. Some common expectorants include guaifenesin, ipecacuanha, and ammonium chloride.
Suppressants
Suppressants are cough medicines that help reduce the urge to cough. They work by blocking the cough reflex in your brain, hence reducing the frequency and severity of your cough. Some common suppressants include dextromethorphan, codeine, and pholcodine.
Best Over The Counter Medicine for a Cough
1. Mucinex DM
Mucinex DM is an expectorant and suppressant combination that helps relieve coughing by loosening mucus and suppressing the urge to cough. It contains guaifenesin and dextromethorphan, which work together to provide relief from coughing caused by colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. It is available in tablet form, and you can take it with or without food. Always follow the instructions on the label and consult with a healthcare professional before use.
2. Robitussin
Robitussin is another expectorant and suppressant combination that helps relieve coughing caused by colds and flu. It contains guaifenesin and dextromethorphan, which work together to thin mucus and suppress coughing. It is available in liquid form, and you can take it with or without food. Always follow the instructions on the label and consult with a healthcare professional before use.
3. Delsym
Delsym is a suppressant that helps relieve coughing caused by colds and flu. It contains dextromethorphan, which works by blocking the cough reflex in your brain. It is available in liquid form, and you can take it with or without food. Always follow the instructions on the label and consult with a healthcare professional before use.
4. Nyquil
Nyquil is a suppressant that helps relieve coughing caused by colds and flu. It contains dextromethorphan, which works by blocking the cough reflex in your brain. It also contains acetaminophen, which helps relieve pain and fever, and doxylamine succinate, which helps you sleep. It is available in liquid form, and you can take it with or without food. Always follow the instructions on the label and consult with a healthcare professional before use.
5. Vicks DayQuil
Vicks DayQuil is a suppressant that helps relieve coughing caused by colds and flu. It contains dextromethorphan, which works by blocking the cough reflex in your brain. It also contains acetaminophen, which helps relieve pain and fever, and phenylephrine, which helps relieve nasal congestion. It is available in liquid form, and you can take it with or without food. Always follow the instructions on the label and consult with a healthcare professional before use.
Conclusion
There are many OTC cough medicines available in the market, but not all of them may work for you. Always read the label and consult with a healthcare professional before use. If your cough persists or gets worse, seek medical attention immediately. Remember to stay hydrated, get enough rest, and avoid smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. With the right OTC cough medicine and proper care, you can alleviate your cough and get back to your normal routine.