The 19 best cough medicine brands
TYLENOL, Delsym and Robitussin lead our ranking of 19 cough medicine brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Cough Medicine brands, ranked
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1
TYLENOL
When it comes to pain relievers, there is hardly a more trusted name than TYLENOL. They provide over-the-counter medicines that contain acetaminophen which fights all kinds of pain. Whether you're experiencing a headache or having a fever, their medications will provide instant relief. They promote taking acetaminophen medicines responsibly and warn that one should not take more than one acetaminophen medicine at a time.
Website: tylenol.ca |Brands like TYLENOL
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Delsym
Silence your cough for a full 12 hours with Delsym® cough medicine. Our fast-acting cough syrup products work up to twice as long as other cough liquids.
Website: delsym.com |Brands like Delsym
Popularity 6.6/10
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3
Robitussin
With more than 70 years of experience in cough care, Robitussin Naturals is a brand that offers treatments and medicines that cure cough and give back one's voice. Their products range from a drug-free product line to maximum strength formulas. Medications can be chosen from the website after selecting whether the customer is an adult or a child or requires 100% natural products. The symptoms the customer faces should be chosen after that.
Website: robitussin.com |Brands like Robitussin
Popularity 5.8/10
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4
Vicks
Vicks has been working on creating products to help people with colds for over 100 years. Vicks has a legacy of flu and cold medicine, and to date, they aim to relieve people from the horrid symptoms of colds. All their product formulas have changed a little over the years to make the item better, but they have made sure to keep the base materials the same. Vicks makes products that help relieve nasal congestion, sore throat, etc. They keep on working to improve for future generations.
Website: vicks.co.uk |Brands like Vicks
Popularity 4.6/10
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5
Mucinex
Mucinex is a pharmaceutical firm that treats colds, flu, sinus infections, congestion, and chest discomfort. When cough and cold symptoms strike, Mucinex has you covered with various formulations to relieve pain at any time of day or night. Their product line provides numerous symptom alleviation in a standard dose and specialized compositions for specific symptoms, including chest congestion, cough, and sinus congestion, so that its customer doesn't have to suffer for so long.
Website: mucinex.com |Brands like Mucinex
Popularity 3.7/10
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6
Hyland's
In 1903 Hyland's was founded in Los Angeles as Standard Homeopathic Pharmacy. George H. Hyland purchased it in 1910, and the name was changed to Standard Homeopathic Company. In 1990, Hyland's began selling products in Canada. Their products include "Restful Legs," Teething Tablets," " Infant Earache Drops, etc.
Website: hylands.ca |Brands like Hyland's
Popularity 2.5/10
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7
Boiron
Herbal medicines are getting popular now as they are easily available, less cost, and devoid of side effects. They are also easy to prepare, unlike allopathic medicines. Boiron company provides medicines made from natural resources to the patients. Natural medicines are handy for children and babies. Customers can find medicines by symptoms, and they can approach the nearby medical store also established by them. Importantly they focus on the homeopathic treatment system and medicines related to it.
Website: boironusa.com |Brands like Boiron
Popularity 2.0/10
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8
Zarbee's
Zarbees, a medicinal brand, has taken the traditional therapeutic use of honey a step ahead by dedicating themselves to producing the most effective and recommended cough syrups. Now, Zarbees has introduced a line of honey-induced wellness products for all ages! Plus, it isn't bitter to taste, so your child takes it without fuss. The children's daily probiotic blend is trusted by pediatricians and parents and is the best supplement for kids. Adults can support their immune system with Zarbees!
Website: zarbees.com |Brands like Zarbee's
Popularity 1.8/10
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9
Theraflu
A counter-effective medicine that works on flu and congestion, Theraflu uses necessary ingredients to tackle flu, cold, and other similar nasal symptoms in their treatments. The medications they prescribe are cost-effective and work faster in relieving symptoms based on the...
Website: theraflu.com |Brands like Theraflu
Popularity 1.7/10
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10
BENYLIN
Benylin is a brand that worked under Johnson & Johnson. It focused on medications for cough, cold, and flu, along with some solutions that can treat pain and diarrhea. Benylin is a versatile brand with products in solid and liquid...
Website: benylin.ca |Brands like BENYLIN
Popularity 1.3/10
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11
Dimetapp
Nowadays, the most common disease or allergy is Cold and Flu. Most people neglect it and think it will get over in some days. But that's not the actual case. Neglecting simple colds and flu can lead to more severe...
Website: dimetapp.com.au |Brands like Dimetapp
Popularity 1.1/10
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12
Contac
Prevent the spread of flu with Contac. Contac's line of Cold+Flu products provides instant relief with maximum strength for all common cold and flu symptoms, including sniffles, sore throat, and more. They offer pills and syrups depending on your preferred...
Website: contac.com |Brands like Contac
Popularity 1.1/10
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13
Pfizer
Pfizer has been the leading frontrunner vaccine for the current Covid-19 pandemic. With numerous experimentations and clinical trials, Pfizer makes sure that every product you take is efficient and safe, with favorable outcomes delivered all the time. Pfizer believes in...
Website: pfizer.com |Brands like Pfizer
Popularity 0.9/10
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14
Alka-Seltzer
Health is always the number one priority. When you're feeling healthy, you can live every moment to the fullest. Alka-Seltzer ensures you're feeling good through its wide range of tablets for different issues that provide instant relief. Whether you're experiencing...
Website: alkaseltzer.com |Brands like Alka-Seltzer
Popularity 0.9/10
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15
bliss
In search of lingerie that steps up your sexiness? In that case, quit the second thoughts and visit Bliss Lingerie to enchant yourself with fine lingerie and bras. Bliss Lingerie has lingerie, bras, bikini, g-string, sexy robe, sleepwear, and much...
Website: blisslingerie.net |Brands like bliss
Popularity 0.7/10
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16
CVS
CVS Pharmacy makes it simple to fill prescriptions, shop for health items, and obtain the treatment you require. Download the free app today to access their mobile coupons, transfer or renew a previous prescription, discover a nearby pharmacy location, and...
Website: cvs.com |Brands like CVS
Popularity 0.7/10
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17
Johnson & Johnson
Doc Johnson has celebrated over 45 years as the leading player in the adult novelty industry. Rather than spreading its wings and flying abroad, the brand has decided to grow its even roots further and stick to its Californian heritage....
Website: docjohnson.com |Brands like Johnson & Johnson
Popularity 0.7/10
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18
Ricola
Emil Richterich founded the confectionary business Richterich & Compagnie in 1930 and, after ten years, founded the Ricola herb drop that relieves coughs and sore throats. Even though Nicola has improved its packaging and brand design, the herb drops recipe...
Website: ricola.com |Brands like Ricola
Popularity 0.7/10
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19
Beechams
Are you in need of an efficient relief for cold and flu? Do not worry much when there is Beechams. Beechams is an effective solution and a reliable brand in the pharmaceutical field that has a wide variety of oral...
Website: beechams.co.uk |Brands like Beechams
Popularity 0.7/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TYLENOL | tylenol.ca | /ChildrensTylenolCanada | – | – | TYLENOL® Canada Brand Channel |
| Delsym | delsym.com | – | – | – | – |
| Robitussin | robitussin.com | – | – | – | – |
| Vicks | vicks.co.uk | – | – | – | – |
| Mucinex | mucinex.com | /mucinex | mucinex_us/ | @mucinex | featured |
| Hyland's | hylands.ca | /hylandscanada | hylandscanada | @HylandsHealth | HylandsHomeopathic |
| Boiron | boironusa.com | /BoironUSA | boironusa | @boironusa | BoironUSA |
| Zarbee's | zarbees.com | /zarbees | zarbees | @zarbees | – |
| Theraflu | theraflu.com | /TherafluUS | – | @theraflu | Theraflu US |
| BENYLIN | benylin.ca | /BenylinCA | – | @benylinca | BenylinCanadaBrand |
Cough Medicine Buying Guide
Dealing with a cough can be a frustrating experience, especially if it disrupts your sleep, makes it difficult to breathe, or interferes with your daily activities. Fortunately, there are many cough medicines available over-the-counter that can help alleviate symptoms and make you more comfortable.
However, with so many options, it can be challenging to know which cough medicine is right for you. In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of cough medicines and provide tips on how to choose the best one for your needs.
The Types of Cough Medicines
Before we dive into specific brands and ingredients, let’s take a look at the different types of cough medicines available:
- Cough suppressants: These medicines work by blocking the cough reflex, reducing the frequency and severity of coughing. They are often used to treat dry, hacking coughs that do not produce mucus.
- Expectorants: These medicines work by thinning the mucus in your lungs, making it easier to cough up. They are often used to treat wet, productive coughs.
- Combination medicines: These medicines contain both a cough suppressant and an expectorant, providing relief for both dry and wet coughs.
- Natural remedies: There are also many natural remedies that can help soothe a cough, such as honey, ginger, and steam inhalation. While these may not be as effective as over-the-counter medicines, they can be a good option for those who prefer natural remedies.
Choosing the Right Cough Medicine
When choosing a cough medicine, there are several factors to consider:
- Your cough type: As mentioned earlier, cough medicines are designed to treat specific types of coughs. If you have a dry, hacking cough, a cough suppressant may be the best option. If you have a wet, productive cough, an expectorant may be more effective. If you have both types of coughs, a combination medicine may be the way to go.
- Your other symptoms: In addition to coughing, you may have other symptoms that need addressing, such as congestion, sore throat, or fever. Many cough medicines come in multi-symptom formulas that can help alleviate these other symptoms.
The following are other factors to consider when choosing a cough medicine:
- Your age: Some cough medicines should not be given to young children, while others may not be safe for older adults. Always read the label carefully and talk to your doctor if you have any questions.
- Your medical history: If you have any underlying health conditions, such as asthma or heart disease, certain cough medicines may not be safe for you to take. Always consult with your doctor before taking any new medications.
- Your preferences: Some cough medicines may have a more pleasant taste or be easier to swallow than others. If taste is a concern for you, consider looking for a cough medicine that comes in a flavor you like.
Common Cough Medicine Ingredients
In addition to understanding the different types of cough medicines, it’s also helpful to know some of the most common active ingredients found in these products.
The following are some of the most commonly used ingredients in cough medicines:
- Dextromethorphan (DXM): This is the most common cough suppressant ingredient. It works by blocking the cough reflex in the brain. DXM is typically safe for most people, but it can cause drowsiness or dizziness in some individuals.
- Guaifenesin: This is the most common expectorant ingredient. It works by thinning mucus, making it easier to cough up. Guaifenesin is typically safe for most people, but it can cause stomach upset or nausea in some individuals.
- Phenylephrine or Pseudoephedrine: These are decongestant ingredients that help relieve nasal congestion. They work by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing inflammation and swelling. Phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine can cause side effects in some people, such as nervousness or difficulty sleeping.
- Acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen: These are pain relievers and fever reducers often included in cough and cold medicines to help alleviate aches and pains.
Top Cough Medicine Brands
Now that you have a better understanding of the types of cough medicines and ingredients to look for, it’s time to start shopping. Here are some of the top cough medicine brands to consider:
- Mucinex: Mucinex is a popular expectorant brand that is specifically designed to help thin and loosen mucus. They offer a wide range of products, including multi-symptom formulas that address other cold and cough symptoms.
- RoboCough: RoboCough is a popular brand of cough syrup that contains DXM as the active ingredient. They offer high-strength formulas for individuals with severe coughs.
- Vicks: Vicks is a trusted brand when it comes to cough and cold medicine. Their products include cough suppressants, expectorants, and multi-symptom formulas.
- Theraflu: Theraflu offers a range of multi-symptom cough and cold medicines that contain acetaminophen, phenylephrine, and/or guaifenesin.
Tips for Taking Cough Medicine
Once you’ve chosen the right cough medicine for your needs, it’s important to take it correctly to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety.
- Read the label: Always read the label on the cough medicine before taking it. Pay attention to the recommended dosage, possible side effects, and contraindications.
- Follow dosing instructions: Take the cough medicine exactly as directed. Do not take more than the recommended dosage or take it more frequently than directed.
- Be aware of interactions: Some cough medicines may interact with other medications or supplements you are taking. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help loosen mucus and make coughing more productive. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day when you’re sick.
- Rest: Rest is essential for recovery when you’re sick. Aim to get plenty of sleep and avoid strenuous activity until you’re feeling better.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right cough medicine can help you feel better and get back to your daily activities more quickly. Remember to consider the type of cough you have, your other symptoms, and any underlying health conditions when choosing a cough medicine.
Always read the label and follow dosing instructions carefully. Additionally, be aware of any possible side effects and drug interactions. If you have any concerns or questions about taking cough medicine, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
