Cough medicine comes in a variety of forms, such as syrups, pills, nasal sprays, and powders. While many children have trouble swallowing pills, cough syrups and powders offer faster relief than pills and are easier to administer orally. Nasal sprays and capsules are also useful. The best herbal medicine for cough depends on the specific cause of your cough. Read on to discover the right medicine for your child. Here are some tips to choose the best medicine for cough:
Antihistamines
The use of antihistamines for the treatment of cough is supported by several studies. Older H1 antihistamines have a broader pharmacological action than newer ones, and are recommended in empiric protocols for cough related to UACS. Newer H1 antihistamines have no known role in the treatment of cough triggered by UACS. They may be more effective in treating other types of cough, such as the chronic variety.
Older antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, brompheniramine, and chlorpheniramine, can be useful for treating the common cold. They suppress cough by blocking histamine, which causes a cough to appear. This class of medicines is best for coughs caused by minor irritations to the throat and airways. In addition to fighting cough, antihistamines can also relieve other conditions related to the respiratory system, such as sleeplessness, motion sickness, and allergic rhinitis.
Decongestants
Decongestants are the best medicine for cough, but are they really effective? The answer depends on what you're suffering from and what you're looking for. If your cough is accompanied by a postnasal drip, a common cause of pain in the throat, you may want to skip taking decongestants altogether. These cough medicines help reduce postnasal drip and help you breathe easier.
Decongestants work by constricting blood vessels. This helps relieve symptoms of other cold-related symptoms, such as body aches and pain. When you're suffering from coughs, you'll appreciate the ability to rest and feel better with less congestion. Decongestants also contain antihistamines, which can be helpful for those who experience multiple symptoms. When choosing cough medicine, McLean recommends decongestants and cough suppressants in combination products.
Another option is to take over-the-counter decongestants. These medications shrink blood vessels in the nose and open airways, making it easier to breathe. It is important to choose products containing pseudoephedrine, but keep in mind that this ingredient is also used to make methamphetamine. Fortunately, pseudoephedrine is generally safe for most people. This makes decongestants the best medicine for cough.
Expectorants
Choosing the best medicine for cough can be tricky, especially if you are allergic to the main ingredients. Cough expectorants contain ingredients that are natural and have been used for centuries. Buckwheat and dark honey are two examples of popular cough syrups. Natural cough syrups may contain vitamins as well, so be sure to check the ingredients before buying. Look for expectorants without additives or artificial coloring, and ones without sweeteners.
Combination expectorants can relieve the symptoms of cough and cold. Cold medicine usually contain multiple mechanisms of action. Robitussin DM, for example, combines dextromethorphan and guaifenesin. Mucaphed, on the other hand, combines guaifenesin with phenylephrine. You should follow your healthcare provider's instructions when taking combination expectorants. For best results, take them less often and store them according to the instructions on the package.
Benzonatate
Benzonatate is a liquid that can be taken with or without food. It is taken up to three times a day as needed and should not be chewed or broken. Do not take more than 200 milligrams at a time. This drug can cause serious side effects if it is ingested in large amounts. You should consult with your doctor if you have severe side effects after taking this medicine.
Benzonatate is available as a generic and brand-name medicine. It comes in either a capsule or a perle. The capsule should be swallowed whole and is effective for cough relief. However, this medication is not recommended for children under 10 years old. Benzonatate is not recommended for use in young children. Benzonatate may cause a numbing effect in the mouth and may lead to choking.