The nurse is teaching a group about the use of cough medications. Which preparation should be used for nonproductive coughs?

Question

1. Guaifenesin (Robitussin GF)
2. Acetylcysteine (Mucomyst)
3. Dextromethorphan (Delsym)
4. Guaifenesin (Mucinex)

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: Robitussin GF contains guaifenesin, which is an expectorant.
Rationale 2: Mucomyst contains acetlycysteine, which is a mucolytic.
Rationale 3: Delsym contains dextromethorphan, which is appropriate for dry coughs.
Rationale 4: Mucinex contains guaifenesin, which is an expectorant.
Global Rationale: Although used for over 50 years to treat cough, controlled studies examining the effectiveness of dextromethorphan have given mixed results. Its present status is that the FDA considers it a safe and effective cough suppressant when used at recommended doses. It appears to be more effective at reducing nonproductive cough due to chronic throat irritation from tobacco use or emphysema rather than acute cough due to colds. Guaifenesin is an expectorant and acetlycysteine is a mucolytic.