Cough constitutes an impressive expression of the normal defense mechanisms of the respiratory system. Productive
cough associated with
catarrh is an important protective system for the lung because it favors the upward movement of secretions and
foreign bodies to the larynx and mouth.
Cough may also appear without bronchial secretions, as dry
cough, which may be persistent when inflammatory disease is chronic or when, in the early stages of respiratory
disease, bronchial secretions are not yet fluid. Sometimes
bronchitis-induced
cough does not significantly affect quality of life, whilst in other cases
cough may become so intense as to impair daily activities severely, resulting in permanent disability. This type of
cough is one of the most frequent reasons for seeking medical advice. The use of
cough suppressants may be appropriate for reaching a precise diagnosis and when dry
cough is persistent.
Cloperastine has been investigated in various types of
cough and, unlike
codeine, has been shown to possess dual activity. It also acts as a mild bronchorelaxant and has antihistaminic activity, without acting on the central nervous system or the respiratory center. Here we review the preclinical and clinical evidence of the efficacy and tolerability of
cloperastine.