Prescribed Cough Medications: Advanced Treatments for Respiratory Relief

Introduction

At Fanous Clinic, we understand that sometimes over-the-counter cough medications and non-pharmacologic measures aren't enough to alleviate severe or persistent cough symptoms. In such cases, prescribed cough medications may be necessary. This blog post will explore these advanced treatments for cough, referencing over-the-counter treatments and non-pharmacologic measures discussed in our previous post.

Prescribed Cough Medications

For more severe or persistent symptoms, a visit to your primary care physician might be necessary. Here are some prescribed medications often used in these cases:

Mucolytics

• Prescribed Forms: Acetylcysteine, available as inhalation solutions, can be prescribed for chronic respiratory conditions.
• Recommended Dose: Typically 200-400 mg three times daily for oral forms or as directed for inhalation.
• Potential Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and possible allergic reactions such as rash or swelling. Inhaled forms may cause a runny nose or throat irritation.
• Special Indications: Effective in chronic conditions like cystic fibrosis or COPD. Inhaled forms require proper nebulization techniques.

Inhaled Bronchodilators

• What They Do: These medications help relax and open airways, making breathing easier for individuals with asthma or COPD.
• Common Options: Albuterol and salmeterol are frequently prescribed by primary care doctors.
• Recommended Dose:
• Albuterol: 2 puffs every 4-6 hours as needed.
• Salmeterol: 1 puff every 12 hours.
• Potential Side Effects: Tremors, nervousness, headache, dry mouth, or throat irritation. Some individuals might experience muscle cramps or palpitations.
• Special Indications: Not for acute asthma attacks (except albuterol). Long-acting bronchodilators (like salmeterol) are for maintenance therapy.

Steroids

• What They Do: Inhaled or oral steroids reduce inflammation in the airways, improving breathing.
• Common Options: Fluticasone and prednisone are common choices for chronic conditions.
• Recommended Dose:
• Fluticasone (inhaled): 1-2 puffs twice daily.
• Prednisone (oral): Dose varies significantly based on condition; often starts at 5-60 mg per day.
• Potential Side Effects: Oral thrush, hoarseness, and sore throat for inhaled steroids. Oral steroids can cause weight gain, mood changes, and increased appetite. Long-term use may lead to more serious effects like osteoporosis or high blood pressure.
• Special Indications: Rinse mouth after inhalation to prevent thrush. Oral steroids should be tapered off gradually under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal effects.

The Role of Over-the-Counter and Non-Pharmacologic Measures

While prescribed medications can be highly effective for severe cases, over-the-counter options and non-pharmacologic measures still play a crucial role in managing symptoms:

Over-the-Counter Medications

Mucolytics, suppressants, expectorants, antihistamines, and decongestants can complement prescribed treatments. For detailed information on these medications, refer to our previous blog post.

Non-Pharmacologic Measures

Hydration, honey, humidifiers, and saline nasal sprays remain essential components of a comprehensive treatment plan, providing natural relief and supporting overall respiratory health.

Conclusion

Understanding prescribed cough medications and how they can work in conjunction with over-the-counter options and non-pharmacologic measures is key to managing more severe respiratory conditions. At Fanous Clinic, our integrated approach combines the expertise of primary care providers and clinical pharmacists to deliver personalized care tailored to your unique needs.