Confusing isn't it? Some cough medicines have expectorants. Others have decongestants. Still others have antihistamines, cough suppressants, or pain relievers. And, of course, they can come in several different combinations.

Remember, coughing is a natural reflex — the body's attempt to get rid of an irritant. So first figure out what kind of cough or other symptoms you have.

Dry, Unproductive Cough.  A cough is unproductive if it produces minimal phlegm. It could come from the tickle of a post-nasal drip or some other irritant like dust or pollution. A cough suppressant or antitussive would help. An antihistamine might slow down a post-nasal drip. If it becomes productive later, you should switch to an expectorant.