What do cough syrups do

Other common cough syrup ingredients include expectorants that thin mucus and make it easier to cough ; decongestants that open airways by narrowing blood vessels; and antihistamines that reduce swelling in the nose and throat. Pneumonia: Here's How to Tell the Difference. But despite all that, most studies on the topic have found no evidence that over-the-counter cold medicines actually suppress or stop coughing.

So what does work? The ACS recommends drinking plenty of fluids, running a humidifier or taking a steamy shower, and sucking on cough drops—or just a hard candy—to get some relief.

Other products are marketed for treating coughs in young children, but there is little evidence these are effective. Cough syrups containing sucrose or glycerol as the active ingredient, with no other cough or cold medicines added, may be suitable for young children. There is not yet enough evidence about the safety or efficacy of ivy leaf extract Hedera helix for treating cough in young children. If you do decide to take a cough mixture, read the labels carefully. Ask for professional advice if you have other health conditions, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, because cough mixtures are not suitable for everyone.

Cough mixtures can interfere with other medicines. The cough suppressant known as dextromethorphan, for instance, is not suitable for people taking some antidepressants because it can increase the risk of side effects. Cough mixtures can contain other medicines for symptoms of the common cold, such as decongestants and antihistamines. Check the product box to see if a measuring device is included. Cold and flu tablets often contain cough suppressants.

If you are already taking cold and flu tablets, seek further advice before taking a cough mixture. This will reduce the risk of taking more than the maximum recommended dose of cough suppressants. If you have specific questions about cough medicines, ask your pharmacist for advice, check the consumer medicine information for a specific product, or call Medicines Line on within Australia only. Spoiler alert: Not really. Other common cough syrup ingredients include expectorants that thin mucus and make it easier to cough; decongestants that open airways by narrowing blood vessels; and antihistamines that reduce swelling in the nose and throat.

But despite all that, most studies on the topic have found no evidence that over-the-counter cold medicines actually suppress or stop coughing. In many cases, they've performed no better than a placebo. Read More. So what does work?