Non-Opioid Cough Treatment

There are several medications with indications for treatment of acute cough.  The medications work by various mechanisms.

Dextromethorphan is a synthetic derivative of morphine that decreases central response to cough stimuli.  Dextromethorphan can be abused, which is commonly referred to as "robo-tripping."

Guaifenesin is an expectorant that loosens secretions to make cough more productive.

Benzonatate works by anesthetizing stretch receptors in the respiratory tract, which reduces cough stimuli.  

Class Drugs

• Dextromethorphan

• Guaifenesin

• Benzonatate

Class Mechanism of Action

See individual drugs

Class Applications

Cough

Class Adverse Effects

See individual Drugs

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Dextromethorphan		Mechanism of Action; -Synthetic derivative of morphine; -Decreases CNS sensitivity to cough stimuli; -Decreases secretion of mucus; Adverse Effects; -In excess, dysphoria can occur; -"Robo-tripping"	"Dex Phone Book" "Meth" "Orphan"
Guaifenesin	Treats cough as an expectorant	Mechanism of Action; Increases volume and decreases viscosity of mucus	"Guava" "Fence"
Benzonatate		Mechanism of Action; Anesthetizes stretch receptors in respiratory tract decreasing cough; Class Adverse Effects; Dizziness, numbness of mouth	"Mercedes Benz" "Tater"