How Can Persistent Cough Be Treated Despite Being On Amoxycillin And Zpac?

Posted on Sun, 18 Mar 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 18 Mar 2018 Answered on

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : My wife has been suffering from a cough for 3 months. Have tried amoxycillin, Zpac and prescription cough medicine (refilled). Also taking over the counter allergy meds. doctor has taken lung X-rays - no problem there. What is the next step. Allergist?

Thanks,
XXXXXXX Miller

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (19 minutes later)

Brief Answer:

Is it dry cough or productive cough with phlegm!

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

I am so sorry to hear about this persistent cough-3months. I will like to know whether this cough is productive or not.

Also, is she having any other symptoms such as acid problems/sore throat or the habit of frequently clearing her throat?

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Ivo Ditah, Internal Medicine Specialist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Ivo Ditah (11 hours later)

It is a dry cough. No acid reflux or sore throat.

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:

Take Pantoprazole 40mg daily and report progress to me!

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

The most common cause of chronic dry cough is acid reflux and postnasal drip.

You have already taken medications for postnasal drip. I will recommend Pantoprazole 40mg daily for acid reflux for at least 2weeks.

Take this and report progress to me for further evaluation and guidance.

One thing is sure, there is no urgency or threat to her life. We can go systematically to identify and address the root cause.

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Ivo Ditah, Internal Medicine Specialist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar