An
antitussive is a medicinal preparation designed to suppress the body's urge to cough through sigma receptor agonism. It is most effective for "dry coughs."
[top]Common antitussives
- Codeine is renowned for its ability as an antitussive, however, its potential for abuse had led to alternative formulations taking prevalence within the market.
- Dextromethorphan is the dominant antitussive of the current market and is available as an "Over-the-counter drug."
- Noscapine is a sigma receptor agonist which also shows anticancer activity. Like DXM, it has a history of abuse in several countries, being readily available from local pharmacies without a prescription. The effects are similar to DXM and alcohol.