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 | I have a ''phlegmy'' cough. What can I take?
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|  A wet cough with phlegm is called a productive cough. An expectorant can help relieve chest congestion and phlegm. Most over-the-counter expectorants (such as >Robitussin) contain the active ingredient guaifenesin, which may loosen phlegm and mucus. A productive cough helps clear secretions from your throat so - unless your cough is bothersome or prevents you from working or sleeping - avoid using products containing dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant which will stop your cough.Drinking lots of water helps hydrate your body and loosen phlegm. Unless your health care provider has prescribed a fluid-restricted diet, drink more water. See your health care provider if your cough lasts for more than one week, or if you also have a fever, rash, or headache. Sources:
Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. American Pharmaceutical Association, 1996.
Mayo Clinic Family Health Book. William Morrow & Co., 1996.
Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2007.
Mitchelson F. “Which Cough Mixture”, Australian Family Physician 27 (1998).
Medline Plus. Medline, 2007.
This answer prepared 6/2/2000.
This information updated 1/4/2007.
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