Resist Temptation to Recommend OTC Dextromethorphan or Guaifenesin for Cough
February 2015
Shortages of Rx cough meds (Tessalon, Tussionex, etc) mean more questions about how to treat coughs due to respiratory infections.
Patients often reach for OTC products with dextromethorphan and/or guaifenesin. But there's not much evidence they work.
Instead, advise adults to try an oral decongestant and FIRST-generation antihistamine (brompheniramine, etc). These help reduce the postnasal drip that can trigger coughs.
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