General information about Pertussin
Pertussin is a cough syrup with thyme. Pertussin is used to relieve cough symptoms. Pertussin was created by pharmacists in the mid-20th century (approximately the 1950s) as an affordable expectorant and has become a true “folk classic” among cough medicines.
The name “Pertussin” comes from the Latin word pertussis, meaning “whooping cough”: at first, it was actively prescribed to children with this dangerous infection to relieve their exhausting cough. In the 1950s-1970s, when vaccination was just gaining momentum, the drug did not cure whooping cough, but it helped babies survive coughing fits, reducing the risk of complications such as suffocation, pneumonia, or even death. In the post-war period, it was considered one of the most popular “savior of children’s coughs.” Pertussin eases coughing and reduces inflammation.
How Pertussin Works for Cough
Pertussin in both forms contains components that help reduce the viscosity of the secretion and facilitate coughing, have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects. Pertussin is great for coughing caused by illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia. It counteracts dry cough well and promotes quick recovery.
You can read more about cough in the article: “How to distinguish a cough due to SARS from an allergic cough“
Pertussin in syrup form
Features and Benefits of Syrup
Pertussin syrup is a convenient and attractive form to take the medication, especially for children and those who have difficulty swallowing capsules. Here are a few features and benefits of this form:
- Pleasant taste: The syrup has a pleasant taste, which makes it more acceptable to children and those who avoid bitter preparations.
- Ease of Administration: The liquid form makes it easy to take, which is important when treating children.
- Fast action: the syrup is quickly absorbed by the body, ensuring a prompt onset of action of the drug.
- Adjustable dosage: The syrup makes it easy to adjust the dosage according to the age and weight of the patient.
- Convenience for the elderly: For seniors who may have difficulty swallowing solid forms, syrup is a more convenient option. Also, children may like this intake of the medicine.
As a result, Pertussin syrup provides an effective cough suppressant with a convenient and pleasant way to use, which can be especially important in the treatment of children and people with certain problems when taking medications.
Recommended dosage and method of administration
The drug is administered orally. Children from 4 to 6 years old – 2.5-5 ml of the drug (1/2-1 teaspoon), previously dissolved in 20 ml (2 dessert spoons) of chilled boiled water 3 times a day.
- Children from 6 to 12 years old – 10-15 ml (1 dessert or 1 tablespoon) 3 times a day.
- Adults – 15 ml (1 tablespoon) 3 times a day.
The duration of treatment is determined by the doctor individually.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age is Pertussin allowed?
The syrup is officially prescribed to children from 4 years old; younger patients receive it only on the direct recommendation of a paediatrician, who may select another form or adjust the dose.
Can Pertussin be combined with other cough medicines?
Concurrent use with other expectorant or antitussive agents without medical supervision is undesirable: similar active substances may mutually potentiate the effect and provoke excessive sputum production or, conversely, suppress the cough reflex. If combination therapy is needed, the regimen should be devised by a physician.
Is Pertussin suitable for people with diabetes?
The syrup contains a lot of sucrose (almost 11 g in one tablespoon) and is listed as contraindicated in diabetes; therefore, patients with impaired glucose metabolism should choose sugar-free analogues or consult an endocrinologist for a safe alternative.
How long can Pertussin be taken without a break?
The typical course is 7–10 days and is extended only on a doctor’s advice; the total duration without pauses should not exceed three weeks to avoid adverse effects from bromine and sugar.
Author: Natalia Kandybey, Candidate of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Quality Director of PJSC Pharmaceutical Factory “VIOLA”
References:
- Novel therapies for the treatment of pertussis disease.
- Pertussis: Microbiology, Disease, Treatment, and Prevention
- Pertussis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
- Pertussis (Whooping Cough) – PMC – National Center for Biotechnology
- Recent progress in clinical and basic pertussis research
The information provided is not medical advice and does not replace professional health recommendations.
The information is based on scientific literature and is provided for informational purposes only.
