Which cough mixture?

BACKGROUND

Coughing is a defence mechanism to clear the airways but if it becomes ineffective, excessive or persistent it may cause fatigue and impair body function as well as create social problems for the patient.

OBJECTIVE

Numerous preparations are available for the alleviation of cough, many containing multiple ingredients including antitussives, expectorants, mucolytics and decongestants. Their modes of action are examined and evidence for their usefulness in treating various types of cough evaluated.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of various preparations in non-productive cough, drug induced cough and productive cough are discussed.