The best cough remedies

Doctors call a cough a natural reaction of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract against the background of allergens, chemical irritants, infections or dust. In this way, the body tries to get rid of foreign bodies. There are also situations when a symptom manifests itself against a background of various diseases. In any case, medicines are selected to eliminate the causes and consequences. Taking into account medical practice and recommendations of doctors, as well as patient feedback, the best cough remedies in 2024 were determined. The review will present drugs for dry and wet cough for adults, a separate line of effective drugs for children, evaluation criteria for each nominee, reliable and proven manufacturers.

Cough remedy which company is better to choose

The first criterion, which buyers of drugs in pharmacies start from, is the pharmaceutical companies that are manufacturers, their reputation and reliability. Therefore, before proceeding with the review of the rating nominees, the experts offer a short excursion to domestic and foreign companies:

• Berlin-Chemie / Menarini (Falimint) - the merger of two large pharmaceutical companies from Germany and Italy. Demonstrates an impeccable reputation as a developer of new medicines based on modern scientific discoveries. Products are widely distributed throughout Eastern Europe, Russia.
• Teva Pharmaceutical Industries (Stoptussin) is a multinational pharmaceutical company that started its activities in Israel. Much of the effort goes into creating quality generics that are available to most buyers. To a lesser extent, he is engaged in the creation of his own drugs.
• Hinoin Pharmaceutical and Chemicals Plant (Libeksin) is a Hungarian pharmaceutical company that is a subsidiary of Sanofi-Sintelabo. One part of the production is aimed at producing only solid forms of medicines, the other produces liquid substances.
• Sandoz (ACC) is an international pharmaceutical company headquartered in Switzerland. The main role in the activity is assigned to the creation of affordable generics, biosimilars for use in the practice of dermatologists, infectious disease specialists, therapists, cardiologists, ophthalmologists, etc.
• Pharmstandard-Leksredstva (Mukaltin) - a merger of two large Russian pharmaceutical manufacturers. Pharmstandard has won numerous prizes and awards domestically and at international competitions, which confirms the quality and effectiveness of the products.
• Alsi Pharma (Ambroxol) is a relatively young Russian company, the main plant of which is located in Kirov. At the moment of growth and development, a great contribution is made to the quality of manufactured medicines. Based on this, the goal was set - to take a stable position in the Russian and foreign markets.
• Laboratory "Innotech International" (Fluditek) - part of the Innotera company from France. It is engaged in the production of parapharmaceutical, medical products for the treatment of various diseases and the maintenance of female beauty. The name of the company is known in more than 80 countries around the world.
• Boehringer ingelheim (Lazolvan) is a German company operating since 1885. Today the pharmaceutical brand is among the top 20 leading companies in the world.In 1992, an official representative office was opened in Russia. It operates in 3 areas - medicines, veterinary medicine, contract biopharmaceutical production.
• Novartis Pharma Stein, Ag (Sinekod) is a Swiss pharmaceutical company operating since 1996. Ranked second in Europe in terms of market share. Cooperation is conducted with 140 countries of the world. It is ranked 52nd in the Forbes Global 2000 list.
• Merkle GmbH (Ambrobene) is a German pharmaceutical company founded in 1881. At first it was a small wholesale company selling pharmaceutical and chemical substances. Today the name is synonymous with high quality and efficiency.

Cough remedy rating

Pharmacy chains have a huge number of drugs to treat the causes of cough, eliminate the symptom itself. Most are available without a prescription, so they can be applied right after the first warning signs. The best cough suppressants of 2024 were ranked according to several quality and effectiveness criteria:

• Basis - vegetable or synthetic, combined composition;
• Indications - from dry, wet, lingering cough;
• Patient age - for an adult or a child;
• Principle of action - quick help, mild or prolonged effect;
• The result is a local solution to a problem or a complex effect on the body;
• Course - simplicity, duration of use;
• Special instructions - contraindications, the likelihood of side effects;
• Tolerability - digestibility, body sensitivity to components;
• Compatibility - admissibility for complex treatment;
• Other restrictions are during pregnancy, lactation, etc.

The list includes only those nominees whose price is fully consistent with the quality. Experts carefully studied clinical practice, patient experience, opinions of leading doctors. The popularity of each drug was determined by the level of demand for it in Russia and on the international market. As a result, the top 10 list was formed from several dozen applicants.

Best throat sprays

Best dry cough remedies for adults

A dry cough is considered the most unproductive; dust, allergens, and chemical irritants from the outside can provoke it. Doctors recommend the timely use of those medicines that are aimed at suppressing it. When a dry cough does not go away for a long time, you need to choose an effective remedy with an antitussive effect, which will affect the brain centers responsible for the cough reflex. After analyzing the opinions of leading specialists, the experience of patients, the experts have identified the best drugs for dry cough.

Falimint

A new generation drug, in which the main active ingredient is acetylaminonitropropoxybenzene. It guarantees a disinfecting, local anesthetic effect. Thanks to this, the pills are used not only against coughs, but also to make them feel better in case of dental diseases. The list of indications includes tracheitis, laryngitis, stomatitis, pharyngitis. The non-narcotic analgesic is highly regarded in medical practice. The daily dosage should not exceed 10 tablets, and the course of administration should be 5-10 days. The age limit is from 5 years. The only contraindication is hypersensitivity to the composition.

Advantages

• Refreshing, cooling effect;
• Protection of the mucous membrane from drying out;
• Lack of tart taste after ingestion;
• Suppression of the cough reflex;
• Anesthetic action;
• Price.

disadvantages

• Only for the initial stage of the disease;
• A peculiar taste.

Doctors highly value Falimint for its non-narcotic analgesic effect, a wide range of indications for therapy. Buyers like minimal contraindications, risks, the fact that the tablets soften, soothe the mucous membrane of the throat.The only downside is the specific taste and the fact that in advanced cases the medication will be ineffective.

Stoptussin

This drug contains several active substances - guaifenesin and butamirate. The first component is aimed at reducing the viscosity of sputum in the respiratory organs (pathways, bronchi), increasing its production, thereby simplifying the process of expectoration. The second reduces the sensitivity of receptors located in the bronchi, which eliminates the symptom itself. In this case, bronchial suppression is not observed. Stroptussin is highly effective in the infectious and inflammatory nature of the disease. In addition, it has a local anesthetic effect, soothing the irritated throat. For small patients, the form of drops is separately offered, they are given from 1 year. It is unacceptable to take in the 1st trimester of pregnancy, with lactation and hypersensitivity to substances.

Advantages

• Against dry cough of any nature;
• Soothing effect on the throat;
• High-speed performance;
• Convenient way to use;
• Relief of expectoration;
• Pleasant taste.

disadvantages

• May be addictive;
• Price.

This cough and throat remedy can be used for any cause of the symptom. Buyers approve of Stroptussin for the reinforced composition along with the minimum list of contraindications, as well as for the speed and pain relief of the oropharynx. The minus is the price above the average level, the likelihood of getting used to in case of long-term use.

Libexin

An effective medication for quickly getting rid of dry cough, blocking this symptom. The active ingredient in the composition is prenoxdiazine, it is aimed at reducing the sensitivity of receptors located inside the respiratory system. It also promotes the expansion of the bronchi for the rapid elimination of the pathogen. In the complex, the course intake of Libeksin leads to a moderate decrease in the activity of the respiratory center located in the brain, as well as suppression of the inflammatory process. Doctors prescribe pills for an unproductive symptom, regardless of its nature. Simultaneous use with drugs that dilute sputum or increase its volume is contraindicated, as this will aggravate the situation. Tablets are allowed for children from 3 years old, syrup is provided for babies from 1 year old.

Advantages

• Lack of addiction syndrome;
• Local anesthesia;
• Admissibility at any stage;
• Long-term action;
• Lack of respiratory depression;
• Suppression of the activity of the cough center.

disadvantages

• Price;
• Contraindication lactase deficiency.

Doctors most often prescribe Libexin because of the combined action - antitussive, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, expectorant. Patients report significant relief from suffocation at night, getting rid of the "lump" in the throat.

The valuable composition makes the medication appropriate in the treatment of a large list of diseases. Minus in its price, as well as inadmissibility for the treatment of patients with lactase deficiency.

Best wet cough remedies for adults

Mucolytics are used to dilute phlegm and facilitate its excretion. With a wet cough, a viscous secret accumulates in a large volume in the respiratory organs. Therefore, primarily thinning and expectorant drugs are widely used. It is advisable to follow the instructions as most of them are addictive. After analyzing the reviews, doctors' appointments, the level of demand, experts have selected the best sputum cough remedies for adults.

ACC

The full name of such a popular drug is "Acetylcestein". It has been specially formulated for injection, oral use or inhalation. Doctors prescribe different forms according to age categories, since ACC is allowed by pediatricians. Proper use can treat not only acute but even chronic bronchitis.The main component, acetyl cesteine, liquefies phlegm, which greatly simplifies the process of its elimination. Most often, adult patients acquire granules that are soluble in water, and then take it by mouth. Contraindications are diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, hypertension, pulmonary hemorrhage, asthma, liver and kidney dysfunction.

Advantages

• High-speed performance;
• Simple way of taking;
• Several forms of release to choose from;
• Minimal side effects;
• Pleasant taste;
• A wide range of indications.

disadvantages

• Price;
• Contraindications.

It is important to take into account that doctors do not recommend that pregnant and breastfeeding women escape from an annoying symptom with the help of ACC. For the rest who are not included in the list of contraindications, the medicine helps to quickly and effectively remove phlegm. It is advisable to take the solution after meals. The downside is the price, there are many contraindications.

Mucaltin

An inexpensive cough remedy, proven over the years, is based on a herbal component - marshmallow extract. The tablets can be used in different ways - dissolve, dissolve in a small amount of water, swallow with a liquid. The main action is to liquefy the phlegm that accumulates overnight or during the day. In addition, marshmallow improves the functionality of the bronchial glands. The main thing is to understand that such tablets do not eliminate infections, inflammation, they are aimed strictly at cleansing the respiratory tract. The use of the course guarantees the restoration of the normal state of the mucous membrane. There are no age restrictions, if the individual intolerance to the composition is not provided.

Advantages

• Natural base;
• Safety;
• Maintaining the mucous membrane;
• Breathing relief;
• Thinning, rapid excretion of phlegm;
• Minimal risks of side effects;
• Cheap.

disadvantages

• The acid can irritate the stomach lining;
• Contraindications.

A natural remedy for a penny is actively used in the treatment of various types of colds. Doctors note speed, safe composition, no risks. Buyers like the low cost, minimal risk of negative symptoms, and noticeable breathing relief. Contraindications are considered a minus, as well as the inadmissibility of using Mukaltin for gastrointestinal diseases.

Ambroxol

Expectorant for coughing adults, popular in eastern countries, in which the active ingredient bears the same name. It is a mucolytic of combined action, which reduces bronchial spasm, normalizes the structure of sputum, preventing it from accumulating and stagnating. Ambroxol also provides anti-edematous, anti-inflammatory effect, restoration of local immunity. Most often, doctors prescribe such pills to patients who first suffer from a dry, unproductive cough, which eventually turns into a productive cough with the formation of sputum. This is observed mainly with established bronchitis. Relief comes about 10 minutes after ingestion. A separate form is provided for children - syrup.

Advantages

• Good absorption in the digestive tract;
• Breathing relief;
• Fast effect;
• Effective sputum removal;
• Prevention of chronic bronchitis;
• Price.

disadvantages

• Contraindications;
• Bad taste.

The demand for such pills has not subsided for many years. The time-tested medicine is in no way inferior to most of the new generation drugs. For adults, tablets with a short course of admission are offered, sweet syrup facilitates the treatment for children. The downside is its taste - bitter in the solid form, too sweet in the liquid form. Also, some are confused by the list of contraindications.

Best dry cough syrups

Fluditek

An effective remedy for wet cough with combined action. The main substance is carbocisteine.Firstly, it controls the production of mucus in the upper and lower respiratory tract, which will also be beneficial for nasal congestion. Secondly, it activates the work of the ciliated epithelium, which contributes to the rapid discharge of sputum. Thirdly, Fluditec normalizes the viscosity and elasticity of mucus. Fourth, it enhances the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy. For both adults and children, one form of release is proposed - syrup. The instructions indicate that you need to drink it between meals, no longer than 8-10 days. Let's take it during pregnancy in the 2nd and 3rd trimester, as well as during lactation. Contraindication - age up to 15 years, 1 trimester.

Advantages

• Quick help;
• 4-in-1 effect;
• Pleasant taste;
• Ease of use;
• Pregnancy tolerance.

disadvantages

• Price;
• Flavors.

Unlike many liquid forms for cough therapy, Fluditec tastes good. The demand for it is due to the combined action, the admissibility of admission in the 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy. Overdose cases, development of side effects are extremely rare. The minus is the price above the average level, the presence of flavors.

Best cough remedies for kids

To make breathing easier for the child, parents prefer to use fast acting, non-toxic, high quality medicines. Doctors prescribe mainly herbal and homeopathic medicines or combo options, where the active substance is supplemented with herbs. A good cough remedy will help a child choose an expert review, which includes nominees proven by practice and buyers.

Lazolvan

A universal syrup to combat dryness or phlegm in the respiratory system. The main component here is ambroxol hydrochloride, which is aimed at increasing mucus secretion. It liquefies it, making it easier to excrete, making a dry cough productive, and then quickly passes. The liquid consistency with white color is easily swallowed by a small child, having a pleasant taste and smell. The package includes a measuring spoon for the correct dosage calculation. Doctors emphasize that such a medicine not only frees the bronchi and pathways from microorganisms, but also increases the production of a protective surfactant substance to prevent recurrence of diseases in the future. Dilution of syrup in milk or tea is acceptable.

Advantages

• Effective composition;
• High-speed performance;
• Versatility;
• Pleasant taste;
• Lack of sugar;
• Various uses.

disadvantages

• Possibility of side effects;
• Addictive potential with frequent use.

Doctors recommend such a syrup for children with different types of coughs if mild, gentle remedies are ineffective. Good reviews emphasize European quality, ease of use, no sugar. The downside is the likelihood of developing side effects and addiction if you do not follow the instructions.

Sinekod

A strong remedy for dry cough for children, the active ingredient of which is butamirate with a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect. First, it acts on the brain centers, reducing the excitability of those that provoke coughing. Further, there is a moderate expansion of the bronchi to facilitate their cleansing from microorganisms. At the end, the syrup reduces the swelling of the irritated mucosa. The indications also include whooping cough, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, acute bronchitis, flu. There is no sugar in the composition, therefore it is actively used in the treatment of diabetics. Another advantageous difference is the improvement of oxygen supply to the circulatory system. Drops are allowed for children from 2 months of age, syrup - from 3 years and older. It is advisable to take orally before eating.

Advantages

• Quick relief from dry coughs of any nature;
• OTC vacation;
• Different shapes for babies and children over;
• Good interaction with other medicines;
• Lack of sucrose;
• High quality.

disadvantages

• Price;
• Suppression of a symptom without eliminating its cause.

The Swiss medicine is especially appreciated in the practice of pediatricians. In reviews, over 90% of buyers praise the composition, results of use, good tolerance even by the smallest patients.

Suitable for the treatment of even the most prolonged cough. Does not accept the simultaneous intake of expectorant drugs. The downside is the price and the fact that the composition only stops the symptom, but does not solve the root of the problem.

Ambrobene

Irritated larynx, swelling of the mucous membrane, accumulation of sputum, all these problems will help to eliminate the modern Ambrobene syrup for children. The active ingredient in the composition is ambroxol hydrochloride with an expectorant and mucolytic principle of action. After taking the syrup, there is a decrease in the viscosity of sputum, activation of the cells of the bronchial tree for release from mucus, and an increase in local immunity. Relief occurs 30 minutes after ingestion and lasts up to 12 hours. The age limit is from 2 years of age. For greater benefit, Ambrobene is advised to be used as directed after meals. For convenience, a measuring cup is included with the bottle. The duration of treatment does not exceed 5 days, otherwise side effects and addiction are possible. It is noted that Ambrobene increases the effectiveness of antibiotics when used together.

Advantages

• High efficiency;
• Prolonged action;
• Increased local immunity;
• Lack of sugar in the composition;
• Convenient way to use;
• Improving the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy.

disadvantages

• Synthetic composition;
• The presence of contraindications.

It is advisable to use Ambrobene as directed by a doctor in case of illness. The composition contains active ingredients that quickly solve the problem. Buyers highly appreciated the quality, good results of using the syrup with a short cycle. Only contraindications against the background of a synthetic nature were noted as a minus.

Which cough remedy is better to buy

Each drug presented in the review has a large list of advantages and minor disadvantages. Therefore, it is not easy to name the one most effective cough remedy to buy. Based on a comparative analysis, as well as taking into account the recommendations of doctors, the following results were summed up:

• Lazolvan - a quick effect on coughs of any kind and nature;
• The most prescribed drug without addiction syndrome is Stroptussin;
• Prolonged action, syrup for all ages - Ambrobene;
• Best Price, People's Choice - Mukaltin;
• Combined action, increased local immunity - Ambroxol;
• Ambulance for an acute attack - ACC.

It is necessary to buy medicines only when the nature, causes and source of seizures have been determined, due to which a person began to cough regularly and with bouts. There are various forms and manufacturers on sale, it is advisable to rely on the recommendations of a doctor. The expert rating will help you narrow your search, teach you the rules for choosing medicines.