ELI5; how does cough syrup stop/reduce coughing?

Question

I understand there is a quick relief factor, gulping down some thick liquid that coats the throat and possibly numbs it maybe? But is there something else that Guaifenesin or other popular medication does when it hits the blood stream of stomach acid?

In: 9

Answer 1

I can’t speak for prescription cough syrups, but over the counter products have been shown to have no real effect on coughing.

https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/features/cough-medicine-should-you-shouldnt-you