Which antitussive drugs to choose for a wet cough

There are more than 20 diseases that can be accompanied by cough. Despite the fact that coughing is a protective reflex of the body aimed at clearing the respiratory tract of phlegm and other particles, it brings serious discomfort to its owner. Therefore, most adults do not want to tolerate it and try to get rid of such a symptom as quickly as possible.

There are two types of cough: dry and wet. In the first case, sputum is not coughed up, the cough is very painful and painful, in the second case, varying amounts of bronchial secretion may be released.

In this article we will look at which drugs will help children and adults quickly and effectively get rid of wet cough.

How can you treat a wet cough?

To understand which medicine to use for wet cough, you need to understand the mechanism of its development. Normally, the evacuation of secretions from the bronchial lumen is ensured by the mucociliary transport mechanism.

It consists of the targeted movements of the cilia of the epithelial cells that line the inner surface of the bronchial tree, the rhythmic contractions of bronchial smooth muscles and normal bronchial mucus.

Outside of illness, this mechanism promotes the constant movement of mucus towards the nasal cavity and the removal of all foreign substances without causing coughing.

Cough is a protective reflex of the body, which is aimed at eliminating foreign substances from the bronchial tree.

During inflammatory processes in the respiratory tract, mucociliary transport begins to work incorrectly, which contributes to the stagnation of sputum in the bronchi, increasing its viscosity, irritating cough receptors and the appearance of cough.

Bronchial mucus consists of 2 layers:

• the lower one is more liquid – sol;
• the top thick one is gel.

The cilia of the ciliated epithelium carry out their movements precisely in the liquid part of the secretion. Any inflammatory processes are accompanied by an increase in the total amount of bronchial secretion, and its composition also changes, which causes an increase in viscosity.

This, in turn, causes a disruption in the function of cleansing the bronchi, since the cilia cannot push through the thick secretion.

Favorable conditions are created for pathogenic microorganisms to settle and multiply on the surface of the respiratory tract, which can cause pneumonia.

With bronchitis, thick mucus accumulates in the lumen of the bronchi, which can be removed with drugs for the treatment of wet cough.

As already mentioned, coughing is a protective mechanism, but it only performs its function if the rheological characteristics of the sputum are normal. It is for this purpose that medications for wet coughs are used, which do not eliminate phlegm, but help to change its rheological properties so that by coughing a person can get rid of thick mucus.

Antitussive drugs can eliminate cough by turning off the central (antitussive drugs of central action) or peripheral (antitussive drugs of peripheral action) part of the cough reflex.

It is important to understand that antitussive agents do not eliminate the cause of the symptom, but only block it. Their use is justified only in isolated cases, usually a severe dry cough.

Sinekod and other antitussive drugs are strictly prohibited for use for wet coughs.

Indications for the use of such tablets or syrups:

• performing bronchoscopy;
• malignant diseases of the respiratory system;
• during surgery;
• whooping cough;
• increased risk of aspiration;
• diseases of the upper respiratory tract in children, when there is a dry, strong cough, and the production of bronchial secretions is not increased.

Important to remember! Antitussives are strictly prohibited for wet coughs for children and adults. If they are used, thick sputum will not drain outward, which significantly increases the risk of developing pneumonia and obstructive syndrome (especially in young children).

Representatives of antitussives:

1. Central acting narcotics: codeine, ethylmorphine, dionine.
2. Central-acting non-narcotic: sinecode, butamirate, glauvent, glaucin, libexin, tusuprex.
3. Peripheral action: prenoxdiazine, levodopropizine.

The main types of remedies for wet coughs

To treat wet cough, drugs from 3 groups are used:

• mucolytics,
• expectorants,
• combined.

Mucolytic agents act on pathological sputum inside the bronchi, namely on the gel layer, promoting its liquefaction, which leads to the normalization of mucociliary transport and the removal of mucus naturally. Mucolytics do not increase the amount of sputum, but only thin it. Therefore, they are considered the drugs of choice for the treatment of wet, nonproductive cough.

Mucolytics can be divided into 2 groups:

• non-enzymatic (acetylcysteine, carbocysteine, ambroxol);
• proteolytic enzymes (trypsin, chymotrypsin).

The latter are used rarely and mainly as inhalations. They destroy the bonds between the protein substances of sputum, thereby helping to liquefy it.

Unfortunately, the use of enzymes has a number of side effects: hemoptysis, allergies, bronchospastic syndrome, pulmonary fibrosis, which limits their use in clinical practice.

An exception is alpha-DNAase (pulmozyme), which is used in the treatment of cystic fibrosis in children.

Ambroxol is one of the safest and most well-studied mucolytics

Expectorant drugs can be divided into 2 groups:

1. reflex action,
2. resorptive action.

The first group of products is created on the basis of plant materials (marshmallow, anise, elecampane, motherwort, plantain, thermopsis, licorice, thyme, eucalyptus, ivy leaves).

Such syrups or tablets, when taken internally, irritate the gastric mucosa, which, in turn, stimulates the vomiting center in the brain and reflexively causes an increase in the secretion of saliva and bronchial mucus.

Thus, expectorants dilute sputum by increasing its volume due to the liquid part.

It is important to know! The use of such drugs is not recommended for children under 4 years of age, since at this age the bronchi are too narrow, and their mucous membrane is prone to swelling and obstruction. Under such conditions, an increase in sputum volume can cause decompensation of mucociliary transport and the development of complications (pneumonia, broncho-obstruction).

Resorptive drugs (sodium iodide, potassium iodide, ammonium chloride, sodium bicarbonate) also help thin the sputum by increasing its volume. They are absorbed into the blood from the gastrointestinal tract and released into the lumen of the bronchial tree along with additional fluid. They are also not recommended for use on young children.

Combination medications contain 2 or more effective drugs for the treatment of wet cough from different groups.

Such drugs are prohibited from being used as self-medication; they should only be prescribed by a doctor for specific indications.

Mucolytic agents

Acetylcysteine

This drug is a mucolytic. It breaks the bonds between mucopolysaccharides of mucus, which helps to liquefy it and eliminate it through coughing. Among the side effects of acetylcysteine, one can note the provocation of the development of bronchospasm, therefore it is not recommended for use in young children with obstructive bronchitis.

Also, with long-term use, the medicine can suppress local immunity, which creates restrictions in its use. As a rule, the course of treatment should not exceed 10 days. It must also be remembered that acetylcysteine ​​cannot be used at the same time as antibiotics, since the drug inhibits their effect.

The minimum interval between them should be 2 hours.

ACC will help get rid of thick phlegm and eliminate productive cough

Representatives of acetylcysteine:

• ACC,
• Atsestad,
• Fluimucil,
• Mukonex,
• Acetsex.

Treatment of wet cough in children

Carbocisteine

It has a mechanism of action similar to acetylcesteine, but, unlike the latter, it does not provoke bronchospasm, does not inhibit the immune defense of the bronchial tree, and therefore can be used in young children.

Representatives:

Bromhexine and ambroxol

The group of mucolytics includes a drug such as bromhexine and its active metabolite ambroxol. The latter is used in modern medicine. The substance is characterized by the following actions:

• dilutes sputum without changing its quantity;
• activates the function of the ciliated epithelium of the bronchi;
• stimulates the production of surfactant (a substance that coats the alveoli and prevents them from sticking together);
• improves the evacuation function of the bronchial tree.

Ambroxol combines well with all medications, including antibiotics, and even potentiates the effect of some. That is why it is the drug of choice for the treatment of wet cough both in children from the first weeks of life and in adults.

Lazolvan is the reference drug for ambroxol

Representatives:

• Ambrobene,
• Lazolvan,
• Flavamed.

If you are thinking about the question of how to treat a wet cough in a child or an adult, then you should always start with ambroxol.

This drug has many dosage forms (syrups, tablets, solutions for intravenous and intramuscular administration, solutions for inhalation), which makes such therapy accessible to any patient.

In addition, you can drink Abroxol on your own without consulting a doctor for up to 10 days (there are practically no side effects). If the need to take medication continues, you should consult a specialist.

There are a lot of such drugs on the modern pharmaceutical market. Let's look at the most famous representatives.

Gedelix

This is a reflex expectorant. Contains ivy leaf extract. Available in the form of a clear syrup with a pleasant aroma and taste.

Approved for use from 2 years of age as a complex therapy for infectious and inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract and bronchi.

Pregnant and nursing mothers, patients with bronchial asthma and children with a predisposition to laryngospasm should not take the medicine.

Hebrion

There are several drugs in the Gerbion line of cough remedies. Although they are all expectorants with a reflex mechanism of action, Gerbion primrose syrup is best suited for the treatment of wet cough. Allowed for use from 4 years of age.

Herbion primrose syrup will not only relieve a cough, but your child will also like it

Alteyka

Contains marshmallow root extract. Refers to expectorant drugs with reflex action. It is used in the complex treatment of diseases that are accompanied by a wet, unproductive cough.

The medicine is approved for use from the 1st year. The duration of the course should not exceed 14 days.

Among the side effects, allergic reactions should be noted, and if prescribed for a dry cough, an increase in the latter.

Combination medications

Stoptussin

This is a combined drug that has mucolytic, antitussive and expectorant effects.

It contains butamirate (a non-narcotic antitussive agent of central action), guaifenesin (an expectorant).

As already mentioned, it is prohibited to use such remedies for a wet cough. Stoptussin is used only for the treatment of dry irritating and paroxysmal cough.

Erespal

Although this remedy does not belong to drugs for the treatment of cough, it is often used in the complex therapy of infectious and inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract. The active ingredient is finspiride, which has anti-inflammatory activity and relieves broncho-obstructive syndrome. Approved for use by children from 2 years of age.

These are not all the drugs that are used to treat wet cough. A wide range of medications and numerous commercials on television often confuse even an experienced doctor when choosing a cough treatment. Therefore, in no case should you self-medicate, because in this way you can only harm yourself or your child.

Source: https://superlor.ru/medicamenty/preparaty-lecheniya-vlazhnogo-kashlya

Medicines for the treatment of damp and wet coughs, a list of effective and inexpensive medicines

A wet cough is the body’s reaction to the appearance of sputum, secretion from the mucous membranes of the airways. It is produced constantly in order to cleanse the respiratory system of dust, germs, microparticles and is usually eliminated unnoticed.

When an inflammatory process occurs, mucus production increases, it becomes more viscous, accumulates, irritates the receptors, and the person begins to cough.

Wet cough medications help clear the airways, speeding up recovery.

The effectiveness of drug therapy

A wet cough is caused by inflammatory processes that occur with influenza, bronchitis, pneumonia and other ailments of the respiratory, and less often, cardiovascular system. At the initial stage of the disease, a dry cough is observed, with a high intensity of which antitussive therapy may be prescribed. After a few days it becomes moist, with sputum discharge. Drug treatment for such a cough is aimed at thinning and accelerating the removal of mucus.

During the process of coughing, pathogenic microorganisms that act as causative agents of the disease are released, therefore the use of means that promote the removal of phlegm is an effective measure aimed at quickly clearing the airways and speedy recovery.

However, the main therapy should be aimed at destroying the causative agent of the disease. For this purpose, doctors prescribe antibiotics and antiviral drugs to the patient.

For therapy to be effective, you can take any medications only with a doctor’s prescription. When you have a wet cough, it is important to drink at least 2 liters of water per day.

Medicines for treating cough should only be prescribed by a doctor.

Types of drugs

Drugs for the treatment of wet cough in adults are divided into mucolytics and expectorants. The former reduce the viscosity of mucus in order to facilitate its removal, without increasing the amount. Such remedies are used for wet coughs with thick, difficult-to-clear secretions. Types of medications in this group:

• Direct influence. The effect is achieved by the ability of such drugs to break down the molecules of complex compounds that make up sputum and have an anti-inflammatory effect. This includes drugs based on trypsin, mucaltin, acetylcysteine, streptokinase, fluimucil and others.
• Indirect influence. Medicines reduce mucus adhesion (adhesion to the bronchial wall) and reduce its production. The active components of such drugs are bromhexine, letostein, prednisolone, ambroxol, fenoterol and others.

Expectorants

The action of expectorants is aimed at increasing the productivity of the cough reflex, reducing the viscosity of mucus and accelerating its evacuation. They are drunk when coughing with normal sputum consistency to facilitate its removal. Such means are:

• Reflex action. They irritate the stomach receptors. In large doses they cause vomiting, and in small doses they cause the bronchial mucosa to produce more secretion, while reducing its viscosity. Medicines increase the activity of epithelial cilia and bronchial smooth muscle. Such preparations are often based on licorice roots, ivy, violet, and thermopsis herbs.
• Resorptive action. Such drugs are absorbed in the stomach and excreted through the lungs, reducing the viscosity of mucus and facilitating its evacuation. Active components are ammonium chloride, potassium and sodium iodide, sodium hydrochloride. Herbal resorptive agents are based on thyme, oregano, marshmallow root, and plantain.
• Combined action. Such medications contain 2 or more active components and may have antiseptic, expectorant, mucolytic, antimicrobial and bronchodilator properties.

Effective drugs

List of effective drugs for treating wet cough in adults:

Gerbion

• Gerbion. The active components of the syrup are thyme and primrose extracts, menthol. The mixture has a complex effect - anesthetic, antimicrobial, expectorant, eliminates bronchospasm and fights inflammation. This medication is one of the most popular drugs for wet cough.
• Lazolvan. The active ingredient is ambroxol. It stimulates increased secretion production in the airways and dilutes it, facilitating rapid elimination. Release forms: tablets, syrup, solution for inhalation and lozenges.
• ACC. The main active substance is acetylcysteine. The effect is achieved by directly affecting sputum, changing its elasticity and viscosity. Thanks to this, the evacuation of mucus is facilitated. The drug has antioxidant properties and is used when pus appears in the secretion. Dosage forms: syrup, effervescent tablets, granules.
• Bromhexine. The product contains an active component with the same name. It is used for viscous, difficult to separate mucus, has mucolytic, expectorant and weak antitussive effects. It is produced in the form of tablets and syrup.
• Ambrobene.
  The active ingredient is ambroxol. It has many dosage forms and is used for both dry and wet coughs - it reduces the frequency of coughing, increases the volume of mucus, makes it less viscous and facilitates elimination. Mukaltin
• Mukaltin. An inexpensive domestic expectorant based on marshmallow extract. Allows you to relieve pain from a dry cough and quickly transform it into a productive one. Improves expectoration, helping to cure wet cough. The medication is relatively harmless; normal pregnancy and children over one year of age are not contraindications for use. If there is a need to use the drug during lactation, you can continue breastfeeding with your doctor’s permission.
• Codelac Broncho. An effective combination drug that helps reduce the viscosity of mucus, facilitates its evacuation, and has a strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect. Produced in tablet form.
• Fluimucil. The active substance is acetylcysteine. The drug has a mucolytic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effect, protects cells from the harmful effects of harmful microorganisms. Available in the form of tablets, granules and solution.
• Fluditek. Product based on carbocysteine. Reduces the thickness of secretions, promotes healing of damaged mucous membranes, and increases local immunity. It is produced in the form of syrup with different concentrations of the active substance - 2 and 5%.

Features of performing inhalations

Inhalation is a good therapeutic method that ensures the delivery of active substances directly to the mucous membrane of the respiratory system, where the inflammatory process is localized. Thanks to this, a positive effect is achieved quickly. With their help, all types of coughs are treated, including prolonged ones.

During the session, a person inhales substances either in heated form (hot inhalations) or cold. The procedures allow you to make sputum more liquid, reduce swelling and inflammation. They are prescribed by a doctor.

To administer the medication by aerosol, special devices are used, which are found in many homes. A steam inhaler turns the medicinal solution into steam. With its help, diseases of the nasopharynx, pharynx, and throat are treated, but it does not reach the lower respiratory organs. The most productive are the ultrasonic inhaler and nebulizer. They break down liquid into small particles and deliver medications to the bronchi, lungs and trachea.

Many manufacturers make drugs specifically for aerosol therapy. Inhalation products can also be made at home. Propolis contains many vitamins and microelements, amino acids, flavonoids and alcohols.

It helps get rid of pathogens in the respiratory tract and reduce inflammation. Propolis removes mucus well, relieves pain and activates the immune system. The product should not be used if you are allergic to honey.

To prepare the solution, you need to take propolis tincture and saline solution in a ratio of 1:20. The procedure requires 3 ml of prepared liquid.

Inhalation

For diseases of the lower airways, often accompanied by a wet cough, take a special mouthpiece that comes with a nebulizer or inhaler. The procedures are performed while sitting.

Air is drawn in through the mouth, breathing is held for several seconds, the interval gradually increases to 15, after which exhalation follows. The maximum session time is 10 minutes. Typically, the cough goes away within a week.

The procedures are carried out 1-1.5 hours after meals or physical activity three times a day.

Procedures cannot be done if:

• individual intolerance to the drug;
• severe heart disease;
• bronchial asthma;
• elevated body temperature;
• for grade 3 hypertension;
• respiratory failure;
• nosebleeds.

The action of drugs for the treatment of wet cough is aimed at diluting and removing mucus from the airways, which helps to cleanse them. The effectiveness of treatment depends on timely, competent diagnosis and the correct choice of medications, so a doctor should prescribe a course.

Source: https://pulmohealth.com/bolezni/kashel/sredstva/preparaty-dlya-lecheniya-vlazhnogo-i-mokrogo-kashlya/

The most effective drugs for treating wet cough

A wet, painful cough is one of the symptoms of colds, which are accompanied by inflammation of the ENT organs. To improve well-being and relieve cough, symptomatic medications are used.

Medicine for wet cough thins bronchopulmonary mucus (phlegm) and speeds up its expectoration. The action of some medications is aimed at relaxing the muscles of the bronchi, expanding them and preventing coughing attacks.

Such drugs are used for allergic bronchitis, bronchopneumonia, and asthma.

Classification of drugs for wet cough

Cough is the main symptom of most pathologies accompanied by inflammation of the respiratory system. To eliminate it, use:

• mucolytics - thin the bronchopulmonary secretion without increasing its water content;
• expectorants – increase the volume of water in sputum, which leads to a decrease in its viscosity.

For wet, paroxysmal cough, bronchodilators (bronchodilators) are also prescribed.

Antitussive drugs act differently - they inhibit the cough reflex by suppressing the cough center in the medulla oblongata or reducing the sensitivity of receptors along the respiratory tract. They are prescribed for wet coughs extremely rarely, as they can lead to stagnation of mucus and pneumonia.

Top 20 drugs for wet cough

Mucolytic is the best remedy for wet cough, which has thinning properties. Secretolytic drugs help cleanse the lungs by expectorating mucus. Such drugs are first-line drugs that are used for colds, flu, bronchitis, pharyngitis, and tracheitis.

ACC

Effervescent water-soluble tablets are used to thin the mucus in the bronchi. They contain acetylcysteine, which has a long-lasting effect. Taking tablets provides:

• reducing mucus viscosity;
• expectoration of sputum;
• neutralization of toxins in ENT organs.

For a wet, painful cough in adolescents and adults, 600 mg of acetylcysteine ​​per day is prescribed. The dose is not increased without a doctor’s recommendation, since ACC provokes side effects - allergies, tachyarrhythmia, vomiting, headaches, etc.

Herbion primrose syrup

The combined medicine with herbal components has a moderate antitussive, decongestant and secretomotor (expectorant) effect. Used as a mucolytic to remove phlegm from the lungs.

Children take 1, and adults – 2 scoops of Herbion three times a day. If the productivity of a wet cough does not increase, the dose is increased according to the recommendation of an ENT doctor.

Bronkatar

Carbocysteine ​​is the active ingredient in expectorant syrup, which inhibits the production of mucus in the bronchi, sinuses, trachea, etc. Used to treat cough attacks with:

• chronic sinusitis;
• bronchitis;
• nasopharyngitis;
• posterior rhinitis;
• tarcheobronchitis.

Children drink 1-2 tsp, and adults drink 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day. In case of acute inflammation of the lower respiratory system, the course of therapy is up to 10 days.

Bromhexine

An effective remedy for wet cough in adults is prescribed for bronchopulmonary pathologies associated with excess mucus production. Expectorant syrup is included in mucolytic therapy for bronchitis, pneumonia, tracheobronchitis, etc. It is taken no more than 3 times a day before meals. The optimal single dose for patients over 18 years of age is 2-4 tsp, and for children under 12 years of age – 2 tsp.

Lazolvan

Tablets for wet coughs in adults contain ambroxol, which increases the concentration of water in bronchopulmonary secretions. Used to eliminate cough attacks in respiratory diseases.

This mucolytic drug rarely causes side effects. Even babies can be given 1 tablet up to 3 times a day.

 Lazolvan accelerates the expectoration of mucus, thereby eliminating a wet, paroxysmal cough.

overslept

Drops with components of plant origin have the following properties:

• antitussives;
• antispasmodic;
• mucolytic;
• expectorants.

Eliminate cough with phlegm by liquefying it and stimulating the cleansing function of the respiratory mucosa. Dry ivy extract relaxes the muscles of the bronchial tree, preventing coughing attacks. For obstruction (blockage) of the bronchi, drink 5-7.5 ml up to 3 times a day.

Erespal

Bronchodilator tablets are used to remove mucus from the ENT organs when:

• bronchitis;
• nasopharyngitis;
• allergic rhinitis;
• flu;
• sinusitis;
• obstructive pulmonary disease.

As part of complex therapy, it is prescribed for tracheobronchitis and allergic bronchitis. For chronic inflammation of the respiratory system, you should take 2, and for acute inflammation - 3 tablets per day.

Soledum

Mucolytic medications for wet coughs in adults facilitate the passage of mucus and restore the cleansing function of the bronchi. For viral infections of the ENT organs, Soledum is used, which has combined properties. It reduces the density and stickiness of mucus, relieves inflammation in the respiratory system and accelerates the resorption of edema.

For acute respiratory infections, take 1 capsule three times a day. The duration of the course depends on the severity and nature of the disease.

Mukaltin

Mucus-thinning tablets for wet coughs in adults accelerate the removal of bronchopulmonary mucus from the respiratory system. Their action is aimed at stimulating the work of the glands contained in the bronchopulmonary system. Due to this, the water content in sputum increases and the density decreases.

The medicine is used for wet and unproductive cough caused by inflammation of the trachea, pharynx or bronchopulmonary system. Take 1-2 tablets up to 4 times a day.

Vicks Active MedExpecto

For wet coughs in adults and children, expectorant syrup based on guaifenesin is used. It increases the water content in sputum, thereby reducing its viscosity. If the upper respiratory system is affected, take 100-200 mg of guaifenesin up to 4 times a day. In case of purulent inflammation of the nasal cavity, it is recommended to combine the drug with other mucolytics.

Dr. Theiss cough syrup

For mucus that is difficult to separate, use a mucolytic drug in the form of a suspension. It contains ivy leaf extract, which has the combined properties of:

• relieves spasm from the muscles of the bronchi;
• suppresses the cough reflex;
• reduces sputum density;
• removes mucous secretions from the ENT organs.

For a wet, spasmodic cough, drink 10-15 ml of the drug 2 or 3 times a day.

Bronchostop

The medicine with extracts of thyme, thyme and marshmallow has pronounced antimicrobial, mucolytic and antiphlogistic (anti-inflammatory) properties. Available in the form:

It is prescribed to eliminate wet paroxysmal cough in case of bronchitis, nasopharyngitis, tracheitis, pneumonia, etc. The dose is determined by the release form of Bronchostop:

• lozenges – 1 pc. every 3 hours (no more than 6 lozenges per day);
• syrup – 10-15 ml every 3-4 hours;
• drops - 10-20 drops every 5-6 hours.

The maximum duration of therapy is 5 days.

Ammonia-anise drops

The combined remedy is used for inflammatory ENT pathologies accompanied by coughing attacks. It contains an aqueous solution of ammonia and anise oil, which have the following properties:

• destroy pathogenic microbes;
• dilute and remove mucus from the bronchi;
• restore the cleansing function of the bronchi.

When treating pharyngitis, whooping cough, bronchopneumonia, take 10-15 drops 3 times a day, diluted with 1 tbsp. l. boiled water.

Pertussin

The syrup softens the throat, reduces the sensitivity of sensory receptors and thins mucus in the respiratory tract. Contains components of plant origin:

• thyme extract;
• thyme extract.

It is used in the symptomatic treatment of wet spasmodic cough in bronchitis, pneumonia, whooping cough and associated pathologies.

Dosage for 3 doses per day:

• 3-6 years – ½ tsp;
• 6-9 years – 1 tsp;
• 9-14 years old – 1 tbsp. l.

When treating children, it is necessary to dilute the syrup with mineral or boiled water in a ratio of 1:2.

Licorice root syrup

Herbal medicine is prescribed to adults for respiratory diseases accompanied by coughing attacks. Licorice root extract relieves spasms from the muscles of the trachea, bronchi, and pharynx, and also facilitates the passage of mucus. Children under 6 years old are recommended to drink 2.5 ml, over 6 years old - 5-10 ml of medicine up to 3 times a day.

Pulmolor

Mucolytic drugs for wet coughs not only thin the mucus, but also reduce the sensitivity of sensory receptors.

Pulmolor soothes non-productive coughs, reduces the volume of mucus in the lungs and accelerates its removal from the respiratory system.

The tablets contain the antiallergic component loratadine, which relieves the mucous membrane of swelling. Adults take 2 tablets per day - morning and evening.

Mucitus

Mucolytic capsules have an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect on the respiratory system. For a painful wet cough, you should take 200-300 mg of the drug twice a day. Mucitus is effective for indolent and acute pathologies of the ENT organs caused by allergies or infections. Prescribed for the prevention of attacks due to pneumonia and obstruction (narrowing) of the bronchi.

Pulmozyme

The combined agent has secretomotor properties. Used to dilute serous or purulent fluid in the respiratory tract for:

• bronchial obstruction;
• bronchiectasis;
• cystic fibrosis;
• sluggish pneumonia.

Used in the form of inhalations, 1 ampoule (2.5 ml) without saline solution or mineral water, 1 time per day.

Dry cough syrup

Powder for dry and wet cough has a mucolytic and secretomotor effect. Contains herbal ingredients:

• licorice root;
• marshmallow extract;
• anise oil.

It is used as an antitussive and mucus-thinning agent, 5-10 ml up to 4 times a day.

Stoptussin

The medicine is available in the form of tablets and drops for oral administration. It has analgesic, expectorant and antitussive effects.

Drug dosage:

• Drops. Children 2-6 years old are prescribed 8-14, 7-13 years old - 20-30 drops 3 times a day. For adults, the single dose is increased to 40 drops.
• Pills. Children weighing up to 50 kg take ½, and adults – 1 tablet 4 times a day.

Stoptussin is used to eliminate cough in case of infectious and inflammatory lesions of the respiratory tract.

Other effective medicines for wet cough

Which tablets or suspensions to take when coughing depends on the nature of the disease. Mucolytics facilitate expectoration of sputum, which helps eliminate factors that irritate cough receptors in the respiratory tract. Due to this, the likelihood of attacks and suffocating coughs is reduced.

For colds, the following medications are prescribed:

• Bronchophyte;
• Ambrobene;
• Fluditek;
• Mucopront;
• Flavamed;
• Bronchorus;
• Linkas;
• Coldact Broncho;
• Gelomirtol;
• Eucabalus, etc.

Antitussive medications are not recommended for use in combination with mucolytics. This is fraught with stagnation of viscous secretions in the respiratory organs, infectious inflammation and associated complications - pneumonia, bronchopneumonia, pleurisy.

Treatment of dry cough

To relieve a severe dry cough, medications are prescribed that suppress the cough reflex in one of two ways:

• due to inhibition of the functions of the cough center;
• by reducing the sensitivity of receptors in the ENT organs.

To eliminate cough attacks, use Tussal, Sinekod, Ledin, Codelac, Omnitus, etc. When coughing up mucus, antitussives are abandoned in favor of mucolytics. The treatment regimen and duration of medication should be determined only by the attending physician.

Source: https://kashelproch.ru/vidy/vlazhniy/lekarstvo-ot-mokrogo-kashlya

Antitussive drugs - types and list of the best drugs for wet and dry cough

Antitussives are those medications that are not used for all types of cough and should not be used independently, without the recommendation of a doctor. What are the indications for the use of these drugs and how they work, we will consider further.

Antitussive drugs - classification

Cough is a protective reaction of the body aimed at restoring normal airway patency by removing pathologically altered tracheobronchial secretions or infiltrated foreign substances from them. It should be understood that cough is not a separate pathology, but a symptom, and in most cases the causes of cough are infectious, inflammatory and allergic diseases of the upper or lower respiratory tract.

It is known that the effectiveness of cough for respiratory tract infections depends on the rheological properties of sputum.

Medications that affect the nature, frequency and intensity of cough can be divided into two main categories:

• antitussives - eliminate cough by suppressing the cough reflex;
• mucoactive drugs - increase the effectiveness of cough by increasing the production or dilution of sputum.

Antitussive drugs - mechanism of action

Antitussive tablets are used for symptomatic relief of the patient’s condition, but they cannot influence either the duration or severity of the disease.

The choice of an antitussive drug must be made individually, taking into account the mechanism of action, the activity of the drug, the risk of side effects, the presence of concomitant pathologies and possible contraindications.

Antitussives, the mechanism of action of which is different, are classified into the following types:

• centrally acting drugs - suppressing the desire to cough in the central part (in the brain);
• peripheral acting agents - eliminating the reflex by acting on areas of the nervous system outside the brain.

Centrally acting antitussives

Source: https://womanadvice.ru/protivokashlevye-preparaty-vidy-i-spisok-luchshih-lekarstv-pri-vlazhnom-i-suhom-kashle

Antitussives for children and adults. In dry and wet

Antitussive drugs occupy a special niche in the science of pharmacology, since cough is one of the common symptoms of most pathologies.

Being a reflex and protective reaction, the cough reflex accompanies almost all acute infections of the respiratory tract, tuberculosis, cardiac pathology, neoplastic processes and chronic damage to the bronchopulmonary system, and some diseases of the digestive tract.

When are antitussives prescribed?

• A wide list of pharmacological drugs allows you to choose the most affordable, effective and suitable for each patient.
• Antitussives and expectorants have a wider range of uses:
• 1

Acute respiratory tract infections of viral and bacterial etiology (pneumonia, influenza, bronchitis, parainfluenza, laryngitis, etc.).

In most cases, mucolytic and expectorant agents are used, which help reduce viscosity and remove mucus from the lungs and bronchial tree.

However, for a disease such as whooping cough, antitussive drugs with a central mechanism of action are prescribed, since irritation of the cough center by bacterial toxins plays a leading role in the pathogenesis of the disease.

2

Chronic bronchopulmonary pathology, accompanied by coughing attacks and the formation of thick purulent sputum in the bronchi and alveoli (bronchial asthma, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, chronic bronchitis, alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency and much more).

Medicines that dilate the bronchi and reduce the amount of sputum are part of the ongoing pathogenetic therapy for the above pathologies.

3

In case of broncho-obstructive syndrome as a result of accumulation of mucus in the lumen of the bronchi, aspiration of a foreign body or fluid; compression of the bronchi by endo- or exogenous neoplasms. In this case, antitussive medications act as relieving symptomatic therapy.

4

Edema of the pulmonary parenchyma due to cardiac or pulmonary failure. The accumulation of transudate in the alveoli not only makes breathing difficult, but also provokes the appearance of a cough reflex, the elimination of which will alleviate the patient’s condition.

1. 5
2. Other reasons: to prepare the patient for a bronchoscopic examination or contrast bronchography, in the first 24-48 hours after inhalation anesthesia, to relieve cough in case of diaphragmatic hernia, gastroesophageal reflux disease.
3. Thus, there are quite a large number of reasons for prescribing certain antitussive drugs.

Antitussive drugs: classification by mechanism of action

Having a completely different composition of active components from each other, cough remedies are also divided into three main classes depending on the mechanism of action.

List of the best medicines:

1. Substances that depress the cough center (Codeine, Omnitus, Sinekod, Stoptussin, Sedotussin, Kodipront, Tussal, Libexin, Dionin, Ledin, etc.).
2. Combined medications (Codelac, Redol, Glycodin, Codterapin, Broncholitin).
3. Secretolytics and expectorants (Erespal, ACC, Lazolvan, Mucaltin, Bronchorus, Ambroxol, Bromhexine).

Most of them are successfully used in pediatrics, as proven by experimental and clinical medical experience. Source: nasmorkam.net

Drugs that suppress the cough center

• First of all, medicinal substances that have a direct effect on the cough center are divided into opioid and non-opioid, which depends on their point of application.
• In the first case, the chemical components of the drug competitively bind to opioid receptors in the medulla oblongata and other nerve centers, suppressing their function.
• The most popular narcotic antitussive medications from this group are Codeine, Dionine and Folkodin.
• They not only weaken the severity of the cough reflex, but also have a sedative and analgesic effect, which is especially effective for dry, painful coughs.

Among the side effects of the above medications, it is worth highlighting dryness of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract.

This will slow down recovery or aggravate the course of the disease in case of thick sputum and productive cough.

1. In addition, addiction to Codeine and its analogues often develops, which limits the use of the drug.
2. The drugs of choice from this group are Tussal and Dastozin, since they do not have a narcotic effect, do not contribute to the development of addiction and have a small number of adverse reactions, both from the whole body and from the respiratory tract.
3. Non-opioid drugs affect non-opioidergic tracts, due to which they do not cause tachyphylaxis or drug dependence.

This allows them to be used much more often and even in children. The mechanism of action is to inhibit the peripheral part of the cough reflex and tension receptors in the bronchial mucosa.

The most well-known drugs from this group are Sinekod, Tusuprex, Sedotussin.

Peripheral antitussive medications

These medications reduce the activity of the cough reflex by inhibiting sensitive receptors of nerve fibers from the vagus nerve, which are located in the organs of the respiratory system.

In addition, they have a local anesthetic effect and inhibit the conduction of impulses along long nerve processes. All this helps to reduce the severity and frequency of cough impulses.

• Libexin is a peripheral antitussive agent with anesthetic properties and a slight bronchodilator effect.
• The drug does not depress the respiratory center at all and does not contribute to the formation of drug dependence.
• When used as a symptomatic treatment of chronic bronchitis, local anti-inflammatory effects were also noted.
• Bithionil and Levopront mainly act on peripheral receptors in the mucous membrane of the bronchial tree, reducing their activity and sensitivity.

Combined action antitussives

In this case, the medications not only affect the cough center, but also have a number of other effects that improve the functioning of the bronchopulmonary system:

1. Codipront - contains methylformint (a substance that acts on opioid receptors in the medulla oblongata) and phenyltoloxamine, an antihistamine that inhibits the production of inflammatory mediators. The remedy is especially effective for dry allergic cough.
2. Codelac - due to its composition (licorice root, thermopsis, sodium bicarbonate and methylmorphine) has an antitussive and mucolytic effect.
3. Redol contains salbutamol and dextromethorphan, which achieves an additional bronchodilator effect.
4. Bronholitin contains ephedrine, basil camphor oil, and glaucine. This gives the drug an additional antimicrobial and bronchodilator effect.
5. Stoptussin (of the active ingredients contains butamirate and guaifenesin) also has a good expectorant and mucolytic effect.

It is worth noting that cough medications with a central or peripheral mechanism of blocking the center or receptors should not be prescribed in the presence of thick and difficult to separate sputum.

Mucolytics and mucokinetics

Antitussive tablets and syrups used for wet coughs are also divided into subgroups:

1. Mucolytics - tablets and syrups that dilute sputum (Ambroxol, or Lazolvan, Bromhexine, Acetylcysteine, proteolytic enzymes).
2. Expectorants – stimulate the functioning of bronchial smooth muscles (Mukaltin, Althea root, Terpinhydrate, thermopsis herb).
3. Combined - have a number of additional effects (Ascoril, Solutan, Erespal).

Ambroxol, which is part of Lazolvan, stimulates the secretion of mucus in the respiratory tract.

In addition, the substance enhances the biosynthesis of alveolar surfactant and activates the work of cilia of the bronchial epithelium. All this dilutes the mucus and increases its discharge.

The drug is available in tablets, ampoules for intravenous administration and inhalation, and syrup for children. Among the side effects, it is worth noting the possibility of developing bronchospasm, so the drug is not used for bronchial asthma.

Mucaltin is a fairly cheap and effective medicine that is often used in pediatrics. Due to the marshmallow content, the medication stimulates the functioning of the bronchial glands, ciliated epithelium and smooth muscles of the respiratory tract.

Often used for pneumonia, bronchial obstruction, bronchiectasis.

Ascoril is a combination medication containing salbutamol, bromhexine and guaifenesin. It has a pronounced mucolytic effect and also expands narrowed bronchi.

Indicated for use in cases of pneumonia, acute bronchitis, whooping cough, tracheitis and bronchial asthma. The instructions indicate that the product is only suitable for children over 6 years of age.

Antitussives for dry cough

The most powerful antitussive for dry cough is, of course, Codeine. However, the high frequency of adverse reactions allows only rare use of the drug in a short course. In addition, any medications containing codeine are prohibited in childhood.

If a medicine with an anesthetic effect for cardiac cough is needed, doctors opt for Dastosin or Folkodin.

Both drugs act on opioid receptors, thereby inhibiting the cough center and achieving analgesia. As a rule, Dastosin is dosed per capsule no more than four times per day.

Effective medications for dry cough for adults are Codelac (in the form of syrup and tablets), Codipront, Omnitus capsules (take 1 piece three times a day until the cough disappears).

For dry cough in children, the following are most often prescribed:

• Codelac Neo drops (allowed from 2 months) – 10-25 drops four times a day.
• Sinekod - has a similar dosage and frequency of use with Codelac.
• Omnitus in syrup (allowed from 3 years of age) – 2-3 scoops three times a day.
• Stoptussin - used from 6 months, 8-30 drops (depending on body weight) three times a day.

All of the medications listed can be given to a child only after consultation with a pediatrician.

Antitussives for children

Before giving your child any medicine, you must consult with your doctor, otherwise you can seriously harm the baby’s health. Not all medications are approved for children.

The most effective and safe antitussives for children: Mucaltin (from infancy), Lazolvan (from the neonatal period), Bromhexine (in tablets only from 6 years), Omnitus (from 3 years), Bronholitin (from three years).

Remember! You should not prescribe strong antitussives or, conversely, mucolytic medications to children on your own, since there is a high risk of stagnation of secretions in the lungs and reflex bronchospasm.[ads-pc-1][ads-mob-1]

Drugs for pregnant women: what is possible?

If during pregnancy there is a need to prescribe medications, then the doctor faces a serious task, since he must weigh all the possible risks for the unborn child and the potential benefits for the woman.

The safest products for a pregnant woman are plant-based Mucaltin, Sinekod, Bronchicum, breast preparations, Ascoril, Thermopsis, Ambroxol and Broncholitin.

Antitussive syrups

Not all medications intended for cough relief are available in liquid form.

The best and most famous of them:

• Bronholitin.
• Ambroxol.
• Erespal.
• Sinekod.
• Stoptussin.
• Omnitus.
• Alteyka.
• Bronchorus.

The liquid form allows the drug to be used in childhood, reduces pain in the throat and behind the sternum during a hacking cough. However, it is not recommended to abuse syrups if there is a tendency to spontaneous laryngo- or bronchospasm.

Antitussives for wet coughs

For diseases with a wet cough and sputum in the lungs, mucolytic or expectorant medications are used. In some cases, a combination of these is possible.

Mucaltin is approved from childhood and is available in tablet form, which can be dissolved in water or taken directly orally with liquid.

Prescribe 1-4 tablets three to four times a day for up to two weeks. If necessary, the duration of treatment can be increased.

Erespal is dosed as follows: from 3 to 6 scoops per day, preferably before meals. Bromhexine stimulates mucus production when two tablets are used at least twice a day.

Folk antitussives

Among folk recipes for cough elimination, special chest preparations are often used, which are numbered from 1 to 4.

They include calendula, sage, licorice, marshmallow, eucalyptus, hawthorn and many other herbs. You can buy the medicine at any pharmacy, and at a low price.

Effective herbal cough remedies - coltsfoot, wild rosemary herb, plantain leaf, herbion, thyme.

All herbs can be easily found at the pharmacy; the main thing is to brew and take according to the included instructions.

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Source: https://lechim-gorlo.ru/nasmork/protivokashlevye-sredstva-dlya-detey-i-vzroslyh-pri-suhom-i-vlazhnom