ATC Group: R05DB Other cough suppressants

Butamirate (or brospamin) is a cough suppressant. It binds to the cough center in the medulla oblongata, more specifically the dextromethorphan-binding site in guinea pig brain with high affinity.

Clofedanol is a centrally-acting cough suppressant, although the mechanism of action is not known. Clofedanol suppresses the cough reflex by a direct effect on the cough center in the medulla of the brain. It also has local anesthetic and antihistamine properties, and may have anticholinergic effects at high doses.

Cloperastine is an antitussive and antihistamine that is marketed as a cough suppressant. The precise mechanism of action of cloperastine is not fully clear, but several different biological activities have been identified for the drug, of which include: ligand of the gamma1 receptor (Ki = 20 nM) (likely an agonist), GIRK channel blocker (described as “potent”), antihistamine (Ki = 3.8 nM for the H1 receptor), and anticholinergic. Cloperastine possesses dual activity. It also acts as a mild bronchorelaxant and has antihistaminic activity, without acting on the central nervous system or the respiratory center.

Gefapixant is a selective antagonist of the P2X3 receptor. P2X3 receptors are ATP-gated ion channels found on sensory C fibres of the vagus nerve in the airways. C fibres are activated in response to inflammation or chemical irritants. Blockade of ATP signalling through P2X3 receptors reduces excessive sensory-nerve activation and excessive cough induced by extracellular ATP.

Levodropropizine is a drug provided with a mainly peripheral tracheobronchial antitussive effect together with an antiallergic and antibronchospastic effect.

Oxeladin is a highly potent and effective drug used to treat all types of cough of various etiologies. It is not related to opium or its derivatives, so treatment with oxeladin is free of risk of dependence or addiction.

Pentoxyverine is a non-opioid antitussive used to prevent cough caused by common cold. It is used as an active ingredient of several oral over-the-counter cough suppressants alone or in combination with other medications, especially decongestants.