A review of studies on otc medications for acute cough found fairly disappointing results for the effectiveness of mucinex and antihistamine decongestants like dimetapp and delsym.
Over the counter cough suppressant.
Delsym cough suppressant coming in the longer lasting form of dextromethorphan polistirex our reviewers found that it worked the absolute best at suppressing their cough for extended periods.
Generally coughing is a healthy way to clear the airways of mucus so cough suppressants should only be used for dry hacking coughs.
Cough suppressants block or suppress the cough reflex.
Many over the counter treatments mix a suppressant and expectorant with medicines for other symptoms.
The ingredient guaifenesin is the only expectorant in the u s so look for it on the label if you need an expectorant.
You may be surprised to hear that studies show that over the counter cough suppressants like robitussin aren t any more effective than a placebo.
The two different types of over the counter otc cough medications are expectorants and suppressants each of which works differently.
That could include an antihistamine a decongestant and a pain reliever.
There are many types and brands of otc over the counter cough suppressants on the market but there are three basic types within all those products.