Best Over The Counter Cough Medicine For Asthmatics
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of people in the United States. One of the most common symptoms of asthma is coughing, which can be triggered by various factors, including allergies, colds, and exercise.
While there is no cure for asthma, there are many over-the-counter cough medicines that can help manage coughing symptoms. In this article, we will discuss the best over-the-counter cough medicines for asthmatics.
1. Mucinex DM
Mucinex DM is a popular over-the-counter cough medicine that contains two active ingredients: guaifenesin and dextromethorphan. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps to thin and loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that helps to reduce coughing.
Mucinex DM is a good option for asthmatics because it does not contain any ingredients that can trigger asthma symptoms, such as pseudoephedrine. However, it is important to note that Mucinex DM may interact with some medications, so it is best to consult with a healthcare provider before taking it.
2. Robitussin DM
Robitussin DM is another popular over-the-counter cough medicine that contains guaifenesin and dextromethorphan. It works in a similar way to Mucinex DM, by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways and reducing coughing.
Like Mucinex DM, Robitussin DM does not contain any ingredients that can trigger asthma symptoms. However, it may interact with some medications, so it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking it.
3. Vicks DayQuil Cough
Vicks DayQuil Cough is a cold and flu medicine that contains dextromethorphan and acetaminophen. While acetaminophen is not a cough suppressant, it can help to relieve pain and reduce fever, which can be helpful for asthmatics who are experiencing cold or flu symptoms.
Dextromethorphan in Vicks DayQuil Cough helps to reduce coughing, but it is important to note that this medicine also contains phenylephrine, which can cause constriction of the airways in some people. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking Vicks DayQuil Cough.
4. Delsym
Delsym is a cough medicine that contains dextromethorphan as its active ingredient. It is a long-acting cough suppressant, which means that it can provide relief from coughing for up to 12 hours.
Delsym is a good option for asthmatics who need long-lasting relief from coughing, but it is important to note that it may interact with some medications. Therefore, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider before taking Delsym.
5. Robitussin CF
Robitussin CF is a cough medicine that contains guaifenesin, dextromethorphan, and pseudoephedrine. Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that can help to relieve nasal congestion, but it can also cause constriction of the airways in some people.
While Robitussin CF is generally safe for asthmatics to use, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking it, especially if you have a history of asthma attacks triggered by decongestants.
Conclusion
While there are many over-the-counter cough medicines available, it is important for asthmatics to choose one that does not contain any ingredients that can trigger asthma symptoms. Mucinex DM and Robitussin DM are good options for asthmatics who need a cough suppressant and expectorant, while Vicks DayQuil Cough and Delsym can provide relief from cold or flu symptoms.
However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter cough medicine, as some medicines may interact with other medications or exacerbate asthma symptoms.