Cough syrup during pregnancy | Cough syrup

Cough syrup during pregnancy

Especially centrally acting cough syrup must not be used during pregnancy and lactation, so opiate derivatives such as codeine, dihydrocodeine, noscapine and the non-opioid cough blocker dextromethorphan are taboo! But also peripherally acting cough syrup should be used with caution and only with strict indication. For example, dropropizine, pentoxyverine and pipaceta should not be used during pregnancy and lactation.The expectorant drug Bromhexine is absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation, while Acetylcysteine and Ambroxol should only be used if strictly indicated.

Side effects of cough syrup

Especially non-vegetable ingredients of cough syrup can cause undesirable effects. Cough syrups containing codeine and hydrocodone are at risk of developing dependency. These drugs should therefore only be taken in small doses and only for a short time when used to treat coughs.

The sedative effect of these drugs often leads to fatigue, which reduces the ability to react, to drive and to operate machines safely. Even under the over-the-counter cough suppressant Dextrometorphan may cause drowsiness, tiredness and dizziness, so it is better to refrain from driving for the duration of its effect. In addition, Dextrometorphan may cause adverse effects in the stomach and intestines and skin problems.

Expectorant cough syrup can also have various side effects. For example, headaches, ringing in the ears and stomach and intestinal problems can be caused by taking cough syrup containing acetylcysteine or bromohexine. Side effects of Ambroxol include dry mouth, shortness of breath, fever, cold, swelling of the face or skin rashes.

Other side effects of cough syrups can, for example, lead to cardiac arrhythmia and hallucinations due to excessive dosage, so the dosage stated or prescribed should be strictly adhered to. In addition, it should always be remembered that all ingredients of cough syrups can also interact with other medications. For this purpose, the package insert should be read carefully or the pharmacist or treating physician should be consulted.

Is a cough syrup always necessary?

In the case of a cold, coughing serves to clear the lungs of mucus, or the coughing stimulus is triggered by an inflammatory reaction of the body. However, a regular and persistent cough can be very nerve-racking and disturb everyday life and sleep. For these reasons it may be advisable to use cough syrup.

The choice of cough syrup should always be based on the symptoms, so cough suppressants should be used for dry, unproductive coughs and expectorants for moist, productive coughs. However, coughing should not be suppressed with medication until the underlying disease is identified. With the correct treatment of the underlying disease, the cough usually subsides as well.

Proven household remedies such as sufficient fluid intake, an appropriate room climate, inhalation or steam baths can relieve the symptoms in many cases. Cough syrup can be useful for very agonizing coughs. In principle, it is advisable to consult a doctor if the cough lasts longer than two weeks, and for babies and children after one week. Even if the coughing symptoms do not improve despite cough syrup or the mucus turns yellowish or greenish, a visit to a doctor is recommended.