She herself refuses to spend her money to buy it because it is so useless.
Between the cold, seasonal viruses and the dry air of heated interiors, autumn puts a strain on the respiratory tract. This is often the period when pharmacists see an influx of patients eager to find treatment that provides rapid relief. But, certain freely available medications do not have the hoped-for effect, according to a pharmacist.
Among them, cough treatments. Several scientific studies show that they are not effective. As pharmacist Anum recalls in a TikTok video: “These medications don’t actually reduce cough symptoms compared to people who don’t take anything.” The American Chemical Society confirms that “researchers have found no strong evidence of their effectiveness”. For example, we can cite this study which explains that “the main benefit of medications for the treatment of cough and cold is related to the placebo effect rather than the pharmacological effect of an active ingredient.” Even some natural supplements like “echinacea, vitamin C or zinc”would have no benefit.
But what is the treatment that the pharmacist absolutely refuses to buy? “The only medicine I refuse to spend money on is over-the-counter cough syrups.” According to the American Chemical Society, they contain cough suppressants, “supposed to block the cough reflex”, expectorants, “designed to thin mucus in the lungs” or even antihistamines, which “reduce swelling of the nose and throat and reduce the amount of mucus”. But as explained earlier, these substances have no proven effectiveness.
On the other hand, cough drops can stimulate salivation, which soothes an irritated throat. “I rely on hydration, rest and warm lemon water with a little honey for a soothing effect”recommends the pharmacist. “The good news is that most coughs go away after a week or two without treatment. But if your cough persists for more than a few weeks, see your doctor.”
