Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Dextromethorphan Vs. Honey for Coughing

Dextromethorphan Vs. Honey for Coughing

Dextromethorphan is an over-the-counter cough suppressant drug found in cough medicines. Honey, produced naturally by bees, is an alternative to cough medicines.

Function

    Dextromethorphan treats the brain signals that trigger the cough reflex, according to Drugs.com. It is found in a majority of generic and name-brand cough remedies, both for adults and children.

Benefits

    According to Medical News Today, honey was found to have a greater impact on alleviating cough severity and frequency. By coating the throat with its thick liquid, the cough was eased and users slept more soundly.

Significance

    Use of dextromethorphan has not been supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics or the American College of Chest Physicians, states Medical News Today. Other options, such as honey, have been utilized by different cultures for years.

Interesting Fact

    Coughs bring about 3 percent of all outpatient visits in the United States, states Medical News Today.

Warning

    Honey should not be used on infants younger than 1 year. Dextromethorphan should not be taken with MAO inhibitors and will not treat coughs from smoking, emphysema or asthma.

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