Skip to Main Content
Skip to Site Map
Skip to Accessibility Statement
3.9.1 Cough suppressants
Prescribing Notes
- Cough may be a symptom of an underlying disorder (e.g. asthma, COPD, GORD, rhinitis) which should be addressed before prescribing cough suppressants.
- Cough may be a side effect of another drug (e.g. ACE inhibitors), or it can be associated with smoking or environmental pollutants.
- For persistent cough lasting over 4 to 6 weeks, the underlying cause should be established.
- Cough can also have a significant habit component.
- There is little evidence to support the use of cough suppressants in COPD and asthma.
- Cough suppressants are available to purchase over the counter.