Effective Treatments for Dry Coughs: Relief & Remedies

A dry, hacking cough is referred to as a nonproductive cough, meaning there isn't any phlegm production involved. These types of coughs are usually the result of various diseases and medications, such as the common cold and ACE inhibitors.

Cough Suppressants

• The most common type of medication taken to cure a dry cough is a cough suppressant. This type of medication is taken orally, either in the form of a pill or as cough syrup. It also helps to moisten the various glands in the throat and reduce coughing.

Chest Rubs

• Chest rubs are another very common type of medication that is effective in treating a dry cough. These medications force you to breath in vapors that relax the throat muscles, thus reducing the urge to cough.

Active Ingredient

• The most common ingredient used to suppress a dry cough is called dextromethorphan. Any medication that contains this ingredient should be an effective medication for reducing your dry cough.

Side Effects

• Do not take medications that contain dextromethorphan if you are currently on MAOIs, since a serious, life-threatening reaction can occur.

Contact Your Doctor

• Contact your doctor if a dry cough persists for more than a week. This may be a sign of a bacterial infection that will require a prescription of antibiotics.