What works better than placebo for cough?

There are several treatments that are more effective than a placebo in relieving cough, depending on the underlying cause and the type of cough (dry or productive).

Dextromethorphan is a commonly used cough suppressant that reduces the cough reflex in the brain. It is effective in relieving dry cough.

Noscapine is another cough suppressant that works by suppressing the cough reflex, especially in dry coughs.

Acetylcysteine ​​is a drug that thins tough mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up.

First-generation antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine) are effective in treating coughs caused by allergies or postnasal drip (mucus that drains from the nose into the throat).

For people with coughs caused by asthma, chronic bronchitis, or COPD, inhaled corticosteroids can help by reducing inflammation in the airways.

Bronchodilators (e.g. salbutamol) help open the airways, reducing coughing associated with breathing problems such as asthma or COPD.

Several cough suppressants, expectorants, antihistamines, and inhalants have been shown to be better than placebo in treating coughs in clinical trials. However, effectiveness depends on the type of cough and the underlying cause.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7061814/

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-09-20 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025