Davis D in his paper describes various recommended treatment options for chronic cough and also highlights the emerging therapies in this field.

Here are some highlights of the article-

Unexplained Chronic Cough (UCC) demands a therapeutic trial of gabapentin because it has shown improvement in patient QOL along with reduced cough frequency and severity. The reported adverse effects of its use are confusion, dizziness, and dry mouth. Risk-benefit profiling is necessary for the continuation of this medicine every 6months.

The use of morphine in the treatment of UCC is debatable. European Respiratory Society (ERS) recommends its low dose for treatment. Its side effect includes constipation and drowsiness. Its abuse and diversion must be checked.

Emerging Therapies for the treatment of cough may include the use of P2X3 antagonist gefapixant and BLU-5937. Other agents in trials are BAY1817080 and S-600918.

Nonpharmacologic Approaches includes speech and language therapy for UCC. Behavioural treatment too can be rendered that includes- education, cough-suppression strategies, laryngeal irritation reduction, and psychoeducational counselling. 

Source: Davis D, Preparing for a New Era in Chronic Cough Management. Managed Care Considerations for Chronic Cough, 2020;26(11).