What is an antitussive used for?

An antitussive is a type of medication specifically designed to suppress or reduce the urge to cough. This can be particularly helpful in situations where coughing is excessive, unproductive, or causes discomfort rather than helping clear mucus from the airways. Antitussives target the cough reflex in the brain, making them effective in managing conditions associated with persistent coughing, such as a dry cough associated with a cold or irritation.

The role of an antitussive distinguishes it from other types of medications. For instance, while medications for treating allergies are aimed at alleviating symptoms like sneezing or runny nose, and antipyretics are used to reduce fever, antitussives focus solely on controlling the cough reflex. Similarly, medications used to relieve itching, such as antihistamines, serve a different purpose and do not address cough suppression. Thus, the function of an antitussive is specifically linked to managing cough rather than the other symptoms presented in the different options.