Introduction
Cough syrups are one of the main remedies to fight sore throats associated with the flu or the common cold. There is some diversity in this area as there are three main classifications available on the market: Robitussin, Coricidin, and Mucinex. Each of the medicines has its own effects and can affect the body differently depending on its category. In this regard, comparing their differences is necessary to understand the application situations and possible consequences better.
Robitussin
Robitussin is the first of the classifications under consideration, usually including drugs that help expectorate sputum. This means that drugs in this group can irritate the mucous membrane, thus thinning the mucus and making it more pliable to pass. One of the key ingredients in this remedy is dextromethorphan (DXM), the effect of which is manifested in the suppression of cough and can cause dizziness (Silva & Dinis-Oliveira, 2020). As a result, a decrease in the frequency of coughing can be achieved and facilitate the respiratory process.
Coricidin
The second remedy is Coricidin, which has antihistamine properties that help with coughs. It contains two main agents, chlorpheniramine maleate and DXM, which provide a general relief effect (Silva & Dinis-Oliveira, 2020). The effect of taking this medicine may be to relieve the symptoms of a cold and eliminate a runny nose with minor side effects like blurry vision.
Mucinex
Mucinex, in turn, is classified as a potent expectorant that directly affects the mucus in the respiratory tract, but it can cause nausea and vomiting. The key ingredient in this remedy is guaifenesin, whose primary function is to mellow mucus so it can be easily excreted from the body (Tripathi et al., 2019). This reduces the severity and intensity of coughing while increasing expectoration.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is worth saying that all three categories of cough medicines differ in their mode of action and intensity. In addition, the main active ingredients in drugs also differ, which allows us to talk about their different directions. Some of them, such as Robitussin and Coricidin, are lighter and gentler on the mucosa. At the same time, Mucinex has a different character, acting directly on the mucus in the respiratory tract. Thus, the choice of prescribed medication differs depending on the nature of the patient’s disease.
References
Silva, A. R., & Dinis-Oliveira, R. J. (2020). Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of dextromethorphan: clinical and forensic aspects. Drug metabolism reviews, 52(2), 258-282. Web.
Tripathi, S., Nikhare, A., Sharma, G., Shea, T., & Albrecht, H. (2019). Safety and tolerability of extended-release guaifenesin in patients with cough, thickened mucus and chest congestion associated with upper respiratory tract infection. Drug, Healthcare and Patient Safety, 87-94. Web.