Try these alternatives to pholcodine to get rid of cough and cold

DCGI has asked medical doctors to advise patients to stop taking pholcodine-containing cough syrups and cold remedies and suggest an alternative to treat their symptoms

Try natural remedies to relieve cold and cough (Source: Getty Images)

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) recently issued an advisory, dated July 14, for medical professionals and patients to stop pholcodine use in cough syrups with immediate effect. According to WHO, there is a heightened risk of anaphylactic reactions in people who have taken pholcodine-containing cough syrups and cold remedies at least 12 months before surgical procedures involving the administration of general anaesthesia with neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAS).

As such, DCGI has asked medical doctors to advise patients to stop taking pholcodine-containing cough syrups and cold remedies and suggest an alternative to treat their symptoms.“Pholcodine is an opioid cough suppressant that works selectively on the cough centre of the brain to control and help stop coughing,” said Dr Shrey Srivastav, MD (Internal Medicine), Sharda Hospital, Noida, in an earlier interaction with indianexpress.com.

We reached out to experts to know more about the possible alternatives to pholcodine that you can consume to relieve colds and coughs.

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“Dextromethorphan and guaifenesin seem to be safer alternatives to pholcodine. Decent natural alternatives include vitamin C, honey, ginger, steam inhalation, salt water or betadine gargle, thyme tea, turmeric use, liquorice use, pre, and probiotics, etc,” Dr Dilip Gude, senior consultant physician, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad said.

Self-medication is a strict no-no. Stay vigilant when it comes to your health (Source: Getty Images)

He added that most importantly, adequate hydration and rest can significantly help improve cold and cough symptoms.

Delving further, Dr Sheetal Radia, ENT and head neck surgeon, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road said that honey is loaded with anti-bacterial properties, and it helps ease mucus and manage inflammation in the bronchial tubes. “Honey has been used as a natural cough suppressant owing to its soothing properties. It can help soothe a sore throat and get rid of a cough. Take a spoonful of honey, mix it with warm water or any herbal tea of your choice and you will surely be able to clear all your throat infections,” she said.

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Just like honey, ginger can also do the trick for you. “Ginger contains anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that relieve cough, and inflammation in the respiratory tract, and help with the flow of mucus. Ginger tea or ginger-infused water should be opted for as per the expert’s advice,” Dr Radia said.

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According to the expert, taking steam for at least 20 minutes can help to tackle nasal congestion and loosen mucus in the airways. “Saltwater gargling can improve a sore throat and reduce coughing. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle 2-3 times a day. You will surely notice the difference. It will also be a good idea to consult the doctor and take medication prescribed by him/her only. Self-medication is a strict no-no. Stay vigilant when it comes to your health,” she concluded.

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