Mistakes people make when getting a cough syrup: Learn how to select the right syrup for your cough

Difference between an Expectorant and a Linctus 

Most times I see people confuse expectorant and Linctus. Well, truth is most people don't even know the difference (and I mean including healthcare givers). When you get to a pharmacy or a clinic to complain of cough/cold, the health professional would ask questions like "is it a dry cough?" or "do you bring out phlegm?". These questions are very important as to know what class of cough syrups/mixture to give. Now there are different types of Cough syrups/mixtures;

•Mucolytics

•Expectorant 

•Antitussives/Linctus

•Antihistamine

•Decongestant 

However, today, I want to make a distinct difference between an Expectorant and a Linctus. 

Let's look at their definitions;

Expectorant: A medication that helps bring up mucus and other material from the lungs, bronchi, and trachea.

An example of an expectorant is guaifenesin, which promotes drainage of mucus from the lungs by thinning the mucus, and also lubricates the irritated respiratory tract.

Linctus: A medication formulated in form of a syrup that helps to relieve cough (mostly dry cough) and sore throat.

An example is Codeine Linctus, which suppresses the cough reflex centre in the brain.

From the definitions above, we can see that you only need an expectorant, if your cough produces phlegm/mucus. The expectorant helps to further empty those mucus from your lungs. The "expell" the mucus to give you relief. 

On the other hand, Linctus are mostly for dry unproductive cough. Usually accompanied by sore throat. Most Linctuses act by suppressing the cough reflex centre in the brain. You only need a Linctus if your cough is dry. 

You can also have a medication containing a Linctus and expectorant. No! I'm not going to make this lengthy, read below👇👇

Endeavour to consult your doctor or pharmacist when ever you want to take any medication.