Antitussives
Antitussives (pronounced: an-ti-tus-sives) are a type of medication used to suppress or relieve coughing. They are often used in the treatment of common cold and other respiratory diseases.
Etymology
The term "Antitussive" comes from the Latin word "anti-" meaning against, and "tussis" meaning cough.
Types of Antitussives
There are two main types of antitussives: opioid and non-opioid antitussives. Opioid antitussives, such as codeine and hydrocodone, work by acting on the central nervous system to suppress the cough reflex. Non-opioid antitussives, such as dextromethorphan and benzonatate, work by numbing the stretch receptors in the lungs and airways that are responsible for triggering a cough.
Side Effects
Like all medications, antitussives can have side effects. Common side effects include drowsiness, nausea, and constipation. In rare cases, they can cause more serious side effects such as respiratory depression and addiction, particularly with opioid antitussives.
Related Terms
- Expectorants: Medications that help bring up mucus and other material from the lungs, bronchi, and trachea.
- Mucolytics: Medications that thin mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up.
- Decongestants: Medications that reduce swelling in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Antitussives
- Wikipedia's article - Antitussives
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