At some point of our lives, we have experienced coughs and sore throat. But when mentioning cough syrup, will this tough experience ease? Indeed, it is sweet, is it successful? Let’s look at different aspects.

What ingredients do cough syrup contain, and what are their functions?

Comparing various ingredients list of different types of cough syrup, the main active ingredients are:

• Dextromethorphan
• Guaifenesin
• Some other ingredients such as
  • Decongestants, which reduce the swelling of blood vessels in your nose.
  • Antihistamines that prevent allergy symptoms like congestion and sneezing.

For dextromethorphan, it works by sending signal to the brain and calming the cough reflex, or known as decreasing the activity of medulla oblongata, which is the part in brain that manage cough reflex, according to National Library of Medicine. DXM – the short form for dextromethorphan – works successfully as a cough suppressant. DXM is good for reducing dry coughs (does not produce mucus).

However, it is a suppressant, not a curative. The effect is limited, and is usually in a short term. In fact, it tends to last only for 8 hours. This is suggested by the fact that one type of syrup is made up of only DXM, and this can grant the patients a temporary relief.

The second ingredient is Guaifenesin. Unlike DXM, it loosens the secretions, and makes us easier cough up the secretions, and will also facilitate breathing. This, on the other hand, is beneficial for relieving the symptoms of wet coughs (capable of producing mucus).

What is an overview of the production process of cough syrup?

Have you ever wondered why sweetness plays a role in relieving the symptom? Before that, let’s look at a brief introduction of the production process of cough syrup:

• Dissolving of the sugars to form a syrup
• Hydration of powdered ingredients
• Blending ingredients of widely different viscosity
• Suspension or dissolving of active ingredients
• The end product must be smooth, agglomerate-free and homogeneous
• Equipment should conform to GMP standards

In the production process, we noticed that both the active ingredients mentioned above and sugar are added. According to National Library of Medicine, the sweet taste contributes to the functions of acting as a suppressant and expectorant activity. In fact, the sweet taste has the “major benefit”. The sweet taste can also promote the production of endogenous opioids as well.

Long term and short term effects?

As talked before, the effect of DXM will only last for 8 hours. In addition, according to Amanda MacMillan, the syrup acts mostly as a placebo.

Due to its sweet taste, human body will experience a sense of relief in natural, which explains the reason why it works temporarily from time to time. There is no valid evidence that the cough syrup really work effectively, according to Patient.

However, when it is used for temporary relief, go for it! It can definitely trigger the release of dopamine that enlightens our mood, and also makes us feel better in general.

Do you think cough syrup works? Share your experience in the comment section below, and I will discuss it with you as well!

Note: all images are AI-generated. Source: Wombo.