COUGHCODE-N

Diprophylline is a xanthine derivative with pharmacologic actions similar to theophylline and other members of this class of drugs. Its primary action is that of bronchodilation, but it also exhibits peripheral vasodilatory and other smooth muscle relaxant activity to a lesser degree. The bronchodilatory action of dyphylline, as with other xanthines, is thought to be mediated through competitive inhibition of phosphodiesterase with a resulting increase in cyclic AMP producing relaxation of the bronchial smooth muscle. Diprophylline exerts its bronchodilatory effects directly and, unlike theophylline, is excreted unchanged by the kidneys without being metabolized by the liver. Because of this, dyphylline pharmacokinetics and plasma levels are not influenced by various factors that affect liver function and hepatic enzyme activity, such as smoking, age, congestive heart failure, or concomitant use of drugs which affect liver function.

Dihydrocodeine is a semisynthetic narcotic analgesic with a potency between morphine and codeine. It is also a centrally-acting anti-tussive. Dihydrocodeine works on the cough centre to lessen the incidence and intensity of coughing fits.

Ephedrine is a sympathomimetic amine acting directly on the alpha and beta receptors and indirectly by increasing the release of noradrenaline by the sympathetic nerve endings. As with any sympathomimetic agent, ephedrine stimulates the central nervous system, the cardiovascular system, the respiratory system, and the sphincters of the digestive and urinary systems.

Diphenhydramine is an ethanolamine-derivative antihistamine. It is an antihistamine with anticholinergic and marked sedative effects. It acts by inhibiting the effects on H₁-receptors. Diphenhydramine is effective in reducing sleep onset (i.e., time to fall asleep) and increasing the depth and quality of sleep.

Paracetamol is a medication used to treat pain and fever. It does appear to selectively inhibit COX activities in the brain, which may contribute to its ability to treat fever and pain.