Cough and Congestion Flashcards Preview

A - BNF Chapter 3 - Respiratory COPY > Cough and Congestion > Flashcards

Flashcards in Cough and Congestion Deck (16)
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1
Q

How do menthol and eucalyptus help to sooth the symptoms of cough and congestion?

A

These substances, when inhaled, encourage the deliberate inspiration of warm, moist air, which is comforting in bronchitis. They also help to relieve nasal obstruction in acute rhinitis or sinusitis.

2
Q

Aromatic decongestants are not recommended for use in patients under which age?

A

3 months.

3
Q

What treatments are preferred for patients with nasal congestion, under 3 months of age?

A

Sodium chloride 0.9% drops or suction aspiration.

4
Q

Cough may be a symptom of which underlying conditions? These should be addressed before treating with cough suppressants.

A

GORD, asthma, rhinitis, other drug use (ACEi), smoking, environmental pollution.

5
Q

Give some examples of cough suppressants.

A

Codeine, dextromorphan, pholcodine.

6
Q

What are the side effects of codeine?

A

Constipation, dependence.

7
Q

Why are dextromorphan and pholcodine preferred to codeine when used as cough suppressants?

A

Fewer side effects and less chance of dependence.

8
Q

What is a demulcent?

A

A substance containing a soothing substance such as syrup or glycerol, believed to relieve a dry, irritating cough.

9
Q

Give some examples of demulcents, used to sooth a dry, irritating cough.

A

Syrup, glycerol, simple linctus.

10
Q

What are some benefits of using simple linctus to sooth a dry, irritating cough?

A

It is cheap and harmless.

11
Q

What are expectorants?

A

Compounds believed to promote the expulsion of bronchial secretions.

12
Q

Give some examples of expectorants.

A

Guaifenesin, ipecacuanha.

13
Q

What is the downside to using expectorants?

A

There is limited evidence to back up their efficacy.

14
Q

Children under 6 years should not be given OTC cough preparations containing which substances?

A

Antihistamines, cough suppressants, expectorants, decongestants.

15
Q

OTC cough and cold medicine can be considered for children between 6-12 years, how long should treatment last?

A

5 days or less.

16
Q

Codeine for cough suppression is contra-indicated in which patients?

A

Children under 12, patients of any age known to be CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolisers, breastfeeding mothers, all children under 18 who are to undergo surgery for tonsils or adenoids, all children under 18 with respiratory problems.