South Dakota Medication Aide Practice Test

Antitussives are medications specifically designed to suppress or control coughing. They act on the cough reflex in the brain, helping to reduce the urge to cough, which can be beneficial in situations where coughing is excessive or disruptive, such as during sleep or in cases of non-productive coughs. This makes them particularly useful for managing symptoms of respiratory conditions where a cough may not be productive in clearing mucus or other secretions.

Expectorants, on the other hand, aim to loosen and expel mucus from the respiratory tract, making them suitable when the cough is productive, meaning it produces phlegm. Decongestants relieve nasal congestion but do not directly affect cough. Antihistamines are typically used for allergic reactions and can have a sedative effect, but they are not intended for cough suppression. Each of these medications serves different purposes in respiratory care, which highlights the unique role of antitussives in controlling cough.