Cough Syrup: Mechanism of Action and Common Types

Cough Syrup: Mechanism of Action and Common Types

Cough syrup is used to treat the symptoms of coughing, a natural reflex of the body to remove irritants from the respiratory tract. Cough syrups work through various mechanisms, including:

1. Peripheral Action:

• Eucalyptol, Camphor, Menthol group: These active ingredients provide a cooling sensation, soothing the respiratory mucosa, reducing irritation and cough.

2. Central Action:

• Morphine derivatives:

• Codeine, Dextromethorphan, Noscapin: Suppress the cough center in the brain, reducing the urge to cough.

• H1 Antihistamines:

• Chlorpheniramine, Alimemazine: Block the action of Histamine, reducing inflammation and allergy-induced cough.

3. Expectorants:

• Terpin hydrate, Glyceryl guaiacolate (Guaifenesin): Increase the fluidity of mucosal secretions, helping to thin phlegm and make it easier to expectorate.

4. Mucolytics:

• N-acetylcysteine, Carbocystein, Bromhexin, Ambroxol: Break down mucus, clear mucus, and regulate the secretion of mucus in the bronchi.

Central Cough Suppressants:

• Opiate alkaloids:

• Codeine, Noscapin: Suppress the cough center, have sedative and analgesic effects.

• Synthetic:

• Dextromethorphan: Suppresses the cough center, equivalent to Codeine but without analgesic effects and less addictive.

Classification and Effects of Common Cough Syrups:

Codeine phosphate:

• Main effect: Suppresses the cough center, sedative, analgesic.

• Side effects: Respiratory depression, constipation, nausea.

• Contraindications: Respiratory failure, asthma, children under 30 months old.

Dextromethorphan:

• Main effect: Suppresses the cough center, reduces cough similar to Codeine, non-addictive.

• Side effects: Dizziness, drowsiness.

• Contraindications: No clear contraindications.

Note:

• Cough syrup is used to treat symptoms, not cure the disease.

• Consult a doctor before using any cough syrup, especially for children and pregnant women.

• Depending on the type of cough and its cause, the doctor will choose the appropriate medication.