Most coughs are caused by a cold and clear up on their own within 3 weeks. Choosing the right medicine depends on what kind of cough you have.
Chesty cough
A chesty (productive) cough brings up mucus. An expectorant helps loosen it so it is easier to clear: Benylin Chesty Cough, Benylin Mucus Cough Max or Buttercup Bronchostop.
Dry, tickly cough
A dry cough does not bring anything up and often feels like a tickle in the throat. Try Benylin Dry & Tickly, or Benylin Dry Coughs Night if it keeps you awake.
Children
Over-the-counter cough and cold medicines should not be given to children under 6. For young children, warm drinks and honey (over 1 year old only) are best. Ask our pharmacists for advice.
When to see a GP
See a GP if a cough lasts more than 3 weeks, you cough up blood, are short of breath, have chest pain, lose weight without trying, or feel very unwell.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my cough is chesty or dry?
A chesty cough brings up phlegm; a dry cough does not and usually feels tickly.
Can I take cough medicine with paracetamol?
Often yes, but some cough and cold products contain paracetamol already. Check the label or ask a pharmacist.
Does honey help a cough?
Honey in a warm drink can soothe a cough in adults and children over 1.
Buy from a real Liverpool pharmacy
Anfield Pharmacy is a GPhC-registered pharmacy at 140 Oakfield Road, Liverpool L4 0UQ. Tracked UK delivery is £2.49, free on orders over £25, or collect free from the pharmacy. Questions? Call 0151 263 3631, Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm.
This article is general information, not a substitute for advice from a pharmacist, GP or optometrist. Always read the label.
