Uncough

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Uncough

Method of action: Cough And Cold Preparations

Treatment option:

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Uncough

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active Ingredient Cloperastine (Hydrochloride or Fendizoate)
Form Oral preparations (Syrup, Tablets, Capsules)
Pharmacological Class Antitussive Agent (Non-narcotic)
Common Use Symptomatic relief of dry, nonproductive cough
Origin Synthetic (Diarylmethane derivative)

What Type of Medicine is Uncough?

Uncough is an oral medication containing the active ingredient Cloperastine, which is classified as a cough suppressant. This compound is chemically identified as a synthetic diarylmethane derivative, confirming its pharmaceutical origin. Cloperastine is distinctly designated as a non-narcotic antitussive agent, differentiating it from opioid-based alternatives like codeine. This distinction allows the drug to suppress the cough reflex without the same dependency concerns or pronounced sedative effects often associated with those agents.

Composition and Physical Forms of Cloperastine

The medicine uses Cloperastine, most frequently formulated as the Hydrochloride or Fendizoate salt, which represents the chemical form of the active substance intended for oral administration. The drug is presented to patients in several main dosage forms, including syrup/solution, tablets, and capsules. As a single-ingredient formulation, it combines the active pharmaceutical ingredient with standard aqueous vehicles or solid excipients. The use of the Fendizoate salt, in particular, is often employed to facilitate a sustained-release action, which may be beneficial for patients requiring less frequent dosing compared to preparations using the more rapidly absorbed Hydrochloride salt.

General Purpose: Suppressing the Nonproductive Cough

The general therapeutic purpose of using Uncough is to provide symptomatic relief from dry, persistent, nonproductive coughing, such as coughs related to minor colds or transient airway irritation. The drug’s function involves a dual mechanism, primarily by exerting a central cough-suppressing action. This activity elevates the threshold required to initiate a cough, and it is complemented by a mild antispasmodic effect on the bronchial airways. This combined activity helps to ease the tension in the bronchial muscles while simultaneously reducing the persistent reflex.

What side effects are possible with Uncough?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Uncough (Cloperastine) is structured by regulatory classifications that detail potential adverse reactions by frequency and physiological system. This information is derived exclusively from official government health authority documentation.


Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

The most frequently documented effects are related to the central nervous system. Sedation and Somnolence (drowsiness) are classified as Very Common events. Common reactions include Dizziness, Distractibility, Abnormal coordination, Exhaustion, Constipation, Vomiting, and Dry mouth.

Rare and Very Rare events include Urinary retention, Palpitation, Tachycardia, Hypotension, and severe Allergic skin reactions such as Angioedema. Certain reactions, like Insomnia, Increased excitability, and Arrhythmia, are listed as having an Unknown Frequency.


System-Organ Classes and Safety Constraints

Adverse reactions are formally grouped into System-Organ Classes, including Nervous System Disorders, Gastrointestinal Disorders, Cardiac Disorders, and Vascular Disorders. The official label includes specific Safety Constraints that restrict use in certain populations.

  • Contraindications: The medicine is strictly contraindicated in individuals with Severe Hepatic Failure and documented hypersensitivity to Cloperastine.
  • Population Notes: Regulatory documents advise caution for Older Adults and Children due to their potential increased susceptibility to neurological side effects. Precaution is also advised for patients with conditions like Glaucoma or Prostatic Hypertrophy.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

This section details the officially documented overdose profile for Cloperastine (Uncough) as specified in government regulatory documents.

Feature Official Regulatory Statement
Documented Overdose Presentations: Includes Central Nervous System (CNS) effects such as drowsiness, excitation, and hallucinations, and effects on motor function, specifically ataxia (lack of coordination).
Physiological Systems Affected: Primarily the CNS and autonomic systems, manifesting as anticholinergic symptoms (e.g., dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention).
Serious Outcomes: The most serious documented outcome is the potential for convulsions.
Antidote Status: No specific antidote is explicitly documented in the official regulatory prescribing information.

Official Emergency Actions

Immediate medical attention must be sought for any suspected overdose, particularly due to the risk of severe manifestations like convulsions. The required emergency response, as documented, focuses on symptomatic and maintenance treatment.

Procedural steps documented in the official regulatory information include induction of vomiting and stomach lavage (gastric washing) with saline serum.

The regulatory documents define the overdose profile by strictly listing the anticipated clinical signs and complications, which establishes the necessity for the mandatory action of seeking immediate medical attention.

Therapeutic Uses of Uncough

Uncough is commonly used to provide symptomatic relief from the dry, non-productive cough associated with symptoms related to irritative states. The use is aligned with its general pharmacological classification as a non-narcotic cough suppressant. The medicine is relevant for easing symptoms that interfere with daily comfort across conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms such as the common cold, acute respiratory infections, and chronic bronchitis.

Quick Fact: Relief for Dry, Non-Productive Cough

The primary purpose is supportive symptom management. The therapeutic focus is on managing disruptive cough episodes that lead to functional strain. The medicine assists with maintaining functional stability and supports patients during difficult episodes, which contributes to improved day-to-day comfort. As an example of its use, “It is commonly used to help with managing persistent cough and supports general well-being during symptomatic phases, especially when symptoms are disruptive.” This provides supportive relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities, such as causing sleep quality disruption or hindering conversation.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The regulatory documentation for Uncough (Cloperastine) defines specific populations who are eligible for use and those who must avoid the medicine. The standard approved population includes adults, adolescents, and children two years of age and older.

Use is contraindicated (absolutely prohibited) for several groups. This includes all children under two years old and individuals with a known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or related antihistaminic agents. The medicine is also strictly prohibited for pregnant and breast-feeding women, as safety has not been established in these populations. Further, patients concurrently taking Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or those with specific hereditary sugar intolerances must not use the medicine.

Use requires caution and conditional restriction in older adults. Caution is also mandatory for patients with certain pre-existing conditions sensitive to mild anticholinergic effects, such as narrow-angle glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy, and cardiac arrhythmia. Similarly, caution is advised for patients with chronic cough conditions like pulmonary emphysema, as cough suppression could be detrimental.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory documents classify the interaction profile of Uncough (Cloperastine) based on established pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic outcomes, identifying specific prohibitions and substances requiring caution.

Interaction Classifications

Classification Interacting Substances/Categories
Contraindicated Combination Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
Pharmacodynamic Enhancement Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants, Alcohol (Ethanol)
Additive Anticholinergic Effect Anticholinergic Drugs (e.g., tricyclic antidepressants)
Pharmacokinetic Modulation Hepatic Metabolic Enzyme Inhibitors or Inducers

Co-administration with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) is a formally contraindicated combination due to regulatory restrictions. The medicine may enhance the sedative effect when taken with Alcohol (Ethanol) or other CNS Depressants, including hypnotics, narcotics, and anxiolytics. This effect is a documented pharmacodynamic potentiation. Furthermore, the combination with anticholinergic drugs can reciprocally increase their peripheral effects, potentially exacerbating symptoms like dry mouth. Regulatory information also notes that drugs classified as inhibitors or inducers of hepatic metabolic enzymes may alter the plasma levels of the medicine.

Mechanism of Action

Central Regulation of the Cough Threshold

The primary mechanism involves targeted modulation within the medullary cough center of the central nervous system. The active molecule acts as a modulator at the Sigma-1 (sigma1) receptor and blocks GIRK channels , modifying the electrical excitability of key neurons. This action results in an elevation of the cough reflex threshold, altering the level of afferent input needed for efferent activation.


Dampening of Peripheral Airway Signals

A secondary mechanism involves antagonism at peripheral signaling targets, specifically the Histamine H1 receptor and, to a lesser degree, Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. Blocking H1 receptors attenuates the signaling of irritation from the respiratory mucosa. This is complemented by the anticholinergic effect, which results in mild bronchial smooth muscle relaxation, which decreases muscular tone and subsequently lowers local mechanoreceptor activity.


Sustained Target Engagement

The Fendizoate salt formulation alters the absorption kinetics. This salt form ensures a slower, sustained rate of systemic absorption, which maintains effective concentrations of the active molecule for prolonged target engagement at the central sigma1 receptors and GIRK channels, resulting in sustained target engagement and a prolonged period of cough reflex modulation.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Uncough

This section outlines the administration guidelines for Uncough (Cloperastine). The instructions below describe the standardized protocol for administering the medicine.


Administration Protocol

Feature Official Guideline
Route of Administration The medicine is administered via the oral route, using forms such as tablets, capsules, or syrup.
Standard Adult Dose A typical single dose for adults ranges from 10 mg to 20 mg of the active ingredient.
Dosing Frequency Administration is typically scheduled three times a day (TID) to maintain the antitussive effect.
Intake Condition Uncough can be taken without regard to food (either on an empty stomach or following a meal), as its absorption is not significantly affected by meals.

Usage Constraints

Cloperastine is designated for short-term symptomatic use. Prescribing guidelines establish a maximum duration of 7 consecutive days (one week) for administration. This restriction ensures the medicine is used for acute episodes as intended.

Age-Specific Rules: The use of Uncough in children under 12 years of age is subject to specific dosing protocols determined by a healthcare professional. Administration to this age group requires medical guidance and is not intended for unsupervised self-medication.

This protocol defines a structured approach for the short-term oral administration of the medicine, emphasizing adherence to the set frequency and the duration limit.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Uncough: Recent Clinical Evidence

Overview of Clinical Studies

Uncough is a compound investigated in clinical trials designed to measure changes in cough symptoms associated with acute respiratory infections, such as the common cold. The primary research focus has centered on antitussive activity, which relates to controlling the cough reflex. Studies aim to compare outcomes for participants receiving Uncough versus those receiving a placebo (an inactive substance) over a short treatment period.


Key Research Findings and Study Design

Initial randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) involving adult participants evaluated the effect of the compound on self-reported cough frequency and severity. In these studies, participants typically had an acute, non-chronic cough lasting less than three weeks.

  • Symptom Measurement: Researchers used various assessment tools, including patient diary entries and questionnaires, to measure the difference in symptom changes between the groups.
  • Efficacy Data: Available data from some studies involving single, specified doses indicated mixed results regarding a change in objective cough counts compared to the placebo group. Evidence remains inconsistent across various antitussive agents, and the clinical significance of small changes observed is not fully clear.

Safety Profile and Limitations

Study protocols included the collection and assessment of all reported adverse events to build a preliminary safety profile. Common adverse events reported in antitussive research generally include mild symptoms such as drowsiness, nausea, or dizziness. The studies were limited to adults and young people over the age of 12; the clinical studies did not collect data regarding the use of Uncough by individuals with severe or unstable health conditions or children under 12.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Uncough (FAQ)

Q: How is Uncough different from regular cough syrup you buy over the counter?

A: Official documents describe Uncough as a prescription antitussive agent. It is specifically classified as non-narcotic, a distinction that separates it from certain over-the-counter options or opioid-based cough medicines. This classification is specified in the regulatory labeling and usage information.

Q: Are the side effects of Uncough generally minor?

A: Regulatory safety documents classify most reported effects, such as drowsiness and dry mouth, as Very Common or Common. However, official information also lists some serious adverse reactions as Rare or Very Rare. The overall profile includes effects on the nervous, gastrointestinal, and cardiac systems.

Q: Why does Uncough make some people feel a little dizzy?

A: Dizziness is classified as a Common side effect related to the medicine's action on the central nervous system (CNS). Studies indicate this is likely linked to the drug’s function as a sigma1 receptor modulator and its antihistamine ( H1) antagonism, which can affect central alertness and coordination.

Q: Can you take Uncough with other common cold and flu medications?

A: Regulatory information advises caution when Uncough is combined with any substance that acts as a Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressant or has anticholinergic properties. Because these effects can be enhanced, professional guidance is important to evaluate compatibility when combining Uncough with other cold or flu preparations.

Q: How long do the effects of Uncough typically last in the body?

A: Studies and official information indicate that the Fendizoate salt formulation of Uncough is associated with a slower rate of systemic absorption. This characteristic is designed to maintain effective concentrations of the medicine for prolonged target engagement in the cough center.

Q: Is Uncough considered habit-forming or does it have potential for dependence?

A: Official regulatory documents specifically designate Uncough as a non-narcotic antitussive agent. This classification distinguishes it from medicines where dependence and potential for abuse are primary concerns.

Q: What are the main active and inactive ingredients in Uncough?

A: The active ingredient in the medicine is Cloperastine, formulated as either the Hydrochloride or Fendizoate salt. Regulatory documents also provide a full list of inactive ingredients, known as excipients, used in the various presentations of the drug.

Q: Are there any general driving restrictions or warnings associated with taking Uncough?

A: Official regulatory warnings exist regarding activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery. This is because somnolence (drowsiness) and dizziness are reported as common side effects. This warning is based on the drug's known impact on the nervous system.

Q: Is Uncough a safe option for people who also have mild to moderate asthma?

A: Official warnings advise caution for patients with certain chronic cough conditions, such as pulmonary emphysema, where suppressing the cough reflex may be detrimental. Because asthma is a distinct condition, determining its suitability for use requires assessment by a healthcare professional.

Q: What does the technical term 'contraindication' mean in the context of Uncough?

A: A contraindication is a strict regulatory term that means the medicine must not be used in the specified patient population or under the defined conditions. This prohibition is established because the risks of using the medicine in that context significantly outweigh any possible benefit.

Q: How quickly is Uncough supposed to start relieving a cough?

A: Official pharmacokinetic studies establish the average time required for the medicine to reach its maximum plasma concentration (Tmax), which is the point where the medication typically reaches its peak effect. This data suggests a relatively fast initial response after oral administration.

Q: Is it acceptable to stop taking Uncough immediately once my cough is completely gone?

A: The official guideline defines the use of Uncough for short-term symptomatic relief, with a maximum recommended duration of seven consecutive days. The overall use is intended to manage acute episodes of nonproductive cough.

Q: Is Uncough available only by prescription, or can I buy it over the counter?

A: The medicine is classified as having a prescription-only regulatory status. This classification is specified in the official labeling and distribution documentation.

Q: What does the drug's safety classification, as defined by regulators, actually mean?

A: Regulatory documents classify adverse effects in two main ways. Effects are grouped by frequency (e.g., Very Common, Rare) to describe how often they were reported in studies, and by System-Organ Classes to organize them by the related body system.

Q: What are the general steps to take if someone thinks they have accidentally taken too much Uncough?

A: Official regulatory information includes general guidance on the management of overdosage. This documented protocol details known symptoms and the processes recommended for medical intervention.

Q: Can I take Uncough if I have a history of high blood pressure?

A: The official label includes a warning regarding certain cardiac disorders, such as tachycardia and arrhythmia. This information necessitates caution for patients with existing heart conditions. The presence of this warning necessitates that patients with existing heart conditions seek professional assessment to determine suitability.

Q: Does Uncough expire, and is it still safe to use near the expiration date?

A: Regulatory documents specify the shelf life of the product. The expiration date confirms the time beyond which the medicine’s quality and potency are no longer guaranteed for safe use according to official standards.

Q: Can Uncough tablets or capsules be safely crushed or chewed?

A: Official administration instructions define the medicine as being taken orally in its supplied form, whether that is a tablet, capsule, or syrup. The instructions do not generally recommend modifying or breaking the dosage form before administration.

Q: Does Uncough contain common allergens like gluten, lactose, or artificial dyes?

A: The official list of excipients (inactive ingredients) in the regulatory document explicitly names all substances used in the formulation. This list is provided to allow patients with sensitivities to review the formulation.

How should Uncough be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Requirements

Official regulatory documentation requires that Uncough (Cloperastine) be stored under specific conditions to maintain stability.

Storage Conditions

  • Temperature: Store the product at a temperature not exceeding 30 C.
  • Protection: It must be kept in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.
  • Container: The container must be kept tightly closed to prevent moisture ingress.

Disposal Instructions

  • Mandatory Protocol: Unused or expired medicine and its container must be disposed of in accordance with local and national regulations.
  • Environmental Safety: The product must not be flushed down the toilet or poured into drains or water sources.
  • Recommended Method: Utilize an official community drug take-back program when available, or follow household disposal procedures for non-flush list medicines.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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