What is the treatment for fever with cough?

Treatment of Fever with Cough

For fever with cough, the most effective approach is to use home remedies such as honey and lemon mixtures, along with paracetamol for fever reduction, and dextromethorphan-containing cough preparations for cough suppression. 1, 2

First-Line Treatment

For Fever Management:

• Paracetamol is the standard first-line treatment for fever and provides effective antipyretic action 3, 4
• Ibuprofen can be used alternatively or in combination with paracetamol for more persistent fever 5
• Adequate hydration helps manage both fever and cough symptoms 1

For Cough Management:

• Honey and lemon mixtures are the simplest, cheapest, and often effective first approach for cough 2, 1
• Dextromethorphan-containing cough remedies are most effective for suppressing cough 2, 6
  • Maximum cough reflex suppression occurs at 60 mg with prolonged effect 2
  • FDA-approved for temporarily relieving cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation 6
• Menthol lozenges or vapor provide acute, short-lived cough suppression 2, 1
• Guaifenesin can help loosen phlegm and thin bronchial secretions to make coughs more productive 7

Second-Line Options

• First-generation antihistamines with sedative properties can suppress cough and may be particularly suitable for nocturnal cough 2, 8
• For persistent productive cough, consider increasing fluid intake to further thin secretions 1

Not Recommended

• Codeine or pholcodine have no greater efficacy than dextromethorphan but have a much greater adverse side effect profile 2
• Antibiotics are not helpful for cough with fever due to viral infections, even when phlegm is present 2, 1

Important Precautions

• Do not use dextromethorphan if taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 2 weeks of stopping MAOI medication 6
• Dextromethorphan contains sodium metabisulfite which may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals 6
• Stop using dextromethorphan and seek medical attention if cough lasts more than 7 days, returns, or occurs with fever, rash, or persistent headache 6

When to Seek Medical Attention

Consult a doctor if any of these warning signs appear:

• Coughing up blood 2
• Experiencing breathlessness 2
• Having prolonged fever and feeling unwell 2
• Having underlying conditions like COPD, heart disease, diabetes, or asthma 2
• Recent hospitalization 2
• Symptoms persist for more than three weeks 2

Practical Advice

• Simple voluntary suppression of cough may be sufficient to reduce cough frequency 2
• Stop smoking, as it worsens cough and respiratory symptoms 2
• Use proper cough hygiene (handkerchief, hand washing) to prevent spreading infection 2
• Record all dose times carefully when using multiple medications to avoid accidentally exceeding maximum recommended doses 1