Cough suppressants are usually used to alleviate the symptoms of a dry, tickly, irritating cough. They reduce the activity of the cough reflex and suppresses the urge to cough. They work by suppressing dry, hacking cough that keeps you awake all night.
Multi-symptom cough treatment includes treatment for multiple symptoms that accompany cough such as cold & sore throat. There are multi-ingredient formulations available at the chemist stores or pharmacies for treating multi-symptom cough.
Cough suppressants are also known as ‘Antitussives’. A commonly available antitussive in the market is Dextromethorphan. These are commonly available at Chemist Stores or Pharmacies.
Antihistamines such as Diphenhydramine is used to relieve red, irritated, itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; and runny nose caused by hay fever, allergies, or the common cold. Diphenhydramine is also used to relieve cough caused by minor throat or airway irritation.
Expectorants are used to treat cough with mucus (wet cough). They loosen the mucus making it easier to expel from the body. Guaiphenesin is a commonly used expectorant.