Treatment Dry Cough

This section is about what over the counter treatments are available (not all treatments may be available in that country) and how they help.

Please check all ingredients and check one is not allergic or sensitive to them.

The aim is to stop by blocking the signals to the brain that causes the cough.
The side effects of such products can be drowsiness and constipation (with Dextromethorphan it is quite rare however it is not as potent as Codeine or Pholcodine).
Codeine can affects ones breathing especially after surgery of the removal of tonsils in children and caution in adults.
It should only be given to adults if suitable.
Pholcodine can also cause a severe anaphylaxis reaction if used with neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) used in general anaesthesia. Patients need to be aware of this if had surgery in the last 12 months and have used pholcodine.
Please be aware painkillers have Codeine and dihydrocodeine so don’t take at same time.
If unsure ask the pharmacist.
Please note simple linctus containing products can interact with warfarin.

(Glycerine, Honey, Lemon, Liquorice)

These have more soothing agents which act directly at the throat.
They help by protecting the throat from irritants in the throat.
They also are quite strong flavoured products and are believed to act on parts of the body causing sensations and help by relieving your symptoms via lubrication (coating effect) to help to sooth your throat and chest.
Please note simple linctus containing products can interact with warfarin.
If applicable (if have nasal congestion/runny nose):

Decongestants work by narrowing the blood vessels in the nose.
This then reduces tissue swelling and mucus product helping with congestion, allowing one to breathe more easily.
They can cause light headedness and should not be taken by anyone with a heart condition or if immunocomprimised without seeing your medical doctor first.
Please note pharmacy can only sell a limited amount of Pseudoephedrine/Ephedrine decongestant tablets per sale, see your pharmacist if not sure.
They can be found in combination with cold and flu remedies and cough remedies, so please be aware not to overdose and don’t take at the same time.
If one is unsure talk to your pharmacist.
Nasal sprays should only be used no longer than seven days to avoid a rebound effect,they can cause local irritation and dryness of nasal passages.

These are said to help to reduce a runny nose, however it may make one drowsy. Please note that many cold and flu and cough remedies have this ingredient as well as being used for hay fever, allergies and bites.
Please don’t take at the same time.
If unsure ask your pharmacist.

Multivitamins are not intended to prevent long term conditions, reduce infection and is not proven (or data is weak) to help with cancer.

These are essential nutrients that the body requires in small amounts to function properly.