From the Guidelines
For persistent coughing due to allergies in adults, honey is recommended as the first-line treatment, as it has anti-inflammatory properties and can soothe throat irritation, typically taken as 1-2 teaspoons as needed or mixed in warm tea. The evidence from various studies 1 suggests that honey can be an effective treatment for coughs, including those caused by allergies. While expectorant syrups, such as those containing guaifenesin, can also be effective in thinning mucus and helping to clear airways, the most recent and highest quality study 1 suggests that honey may be a better option for initial treatment.
Some key points to consider when treating persistent coughing due to allergies in adults include:
- Honey can be taken as 1-2 teaspoons as needed or mixed in warm tea to help soothe throat irritation and suppress coughs.
- Expectorant syrups, such as those containing guaifenesin, can be effective in thinning mucus and helping to clear airways, but may not be as effective as honey for initial treatment.
- Dextromethorphan-containing cough suppressants can also help control persistent dry coughs, but should be used with caution and only as directed.
- Addressing the underlying allergy with antihistamines, such as cetirizine or loratadine, alongside either remedy may provide better relief for allergic coughs.
- If coughing persists beyond 2 weeks or is accompanied by fever, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, medical attention should be sought.
It's also important to note that the evidence from the studies 1 suggests that the treatment of coughs should be individualized and based on the specific needs and circumstances of each patient. Additionally, the use of over-the-counter medications, such as expectorant syrups and cough suppressants, should be done with caution and only as directed, as they can have potential side effects and interactions with other medications.
From the FDA Drug Label
Helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions to make coughs more productive. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Comparison of Honey and Expectorant Syrup for Persistent and Allergic Coughing in Adults
- There is no direct comparison between honey and expectorant syrup for persistent and allergic coughing in adults in the provided studies.
- However, the studies suggest that chronic cough in adults can be caused by various factors, including upper airway cough syndrome, gastroesophageal reflux disease, asthma, and nonasthmatic eosinophilic bronchitis 2.
- The treatment of chronic cough often involves identifying and addressing the underlying cause, and may include the use of medications such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, and neuromodulators 3, 4.
- Antihistamines, in particular, have been shown to be effective in treating allergic conditions such as allergic rhinitis and urticaria, and may be used to alleviate symptoms of allergic cough 5.
- Expectorant syrups are often used to help loosen and clear mucus from the airways, but their effectiveness in treating chronic cough is not well established 3.
- Honey, on the other hand, has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and may be used as a natural cough suppressant, but its effectiveness in treating chronic cough is not well studied 3, 4.
Underlying Causes of Persistent and Allergic Coughing
- The underlying causes of persistent and allergic coughing in adults can be complex and multifaceted, and may involve a combination of factors such as allergies, asthma, and environmental triggers 2, 4.
- Identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the cough is crucial in developing an effective treatment plan 2, 3.
- Allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, can also cause coughing and other respiratory symptoms, and require prompt treatment with epinephrine and other medications 6.