Antitussives are cough suppressants. They quieten the reflex that triggers coughing, which suits a dry, tickly cough that serves no purpose and disturbs sleep. They are the opposite of expectorants, which are for a chesty cough with phlegm.

What You Will Find Here

Dextromethorphan based syrups and capsules
Non opioid suppressants such as dimemorfan and butamirate
Combination syrups with an antihistamine for night time use
Sugar free and childrens preparations

Choosing The Right One

Dry, tickly cough suits a suppressant
A cough bringing up phlegm is doing a job, so an expectorant fits better
Read combination labels so ingredients are not doubled up

Precautions

See a doctor if a cough lasts more than two to three weeks, brings up blood, or comes with breathlessness, chest pain, night sweats, fever or weight loss, as TB and asthma both present this way. Many cough syrups are unsuitable for young children, and some interact with antidepressants, so check with a pharmacist first.

This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.