Levodropropizine in the treatment of post-infectious cough: mechanism of action and practical use Review article
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Abstract
Cough is a common symptom in primary health care and a clinical problem requiring prompt but careful assessment. In most patients, it accompanies respiratory tract infections and resolves spontaneously; however, in some cases, it persists after other infection-related symptoms have subsided. Post-infectious cough is a specific clinical presentation, usually dry, paroxysmal, and aggravated at night or during speaking, associated with transient bronchial hyperresponsiveness and increased cough reflex sensitivity. This article presents a practical approach to assessing dry cough in primary care, with particular emphasis on distinguishing dry cough from productive cough, identifying alarm symptoms, and selecting appropriate symptomatic treatment. The role of levodropropizine, a non-opioid peripherally acting antitussive agent, in the treatment of dry post-infectious cough is also discussed. The importance of appropriate patient selection, short-term antitussive therapy, and patient education regarding symptoms requiring reassessment is highlighted.
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