The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 273 No 7307 p46
10 July 2004

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Cough medicines disappoint

Cough medicines containing diphenhydramine or dextromethorphan do not reduce the frequency or severity of cough compared with simple syrup, according to a study of 100 children.

Parents were asked to describe their child’s cough and quality of sleep after a dose of cough medicine given at bedtime. Although all outcomes improved after treatment, the medicines containing active ingredients were not superior (Pediatrics 2004;114:85).