Pathophysiology and Pharmacotherapy of Persistent Post- Infectious Cough: A Review of Literature

* Lavina Prashar and Christian C Ezeala

Persistent post-infectious cough (PPC) is a subacute cough lasting less than 8 weeks. This article aims to review recent advances in the pathophysiology and pharmacotherapy of PPC secondary to upper respiratory tract infection. Between April and August, 2016, relevant databases were searched using the search words “subacute cough,” “persistent post-infectious cough,” “post-viral cough,” “causes,” pathogenesis,” and “management.” Inflammatory mechanisms play a reported role in the pathophysiology of PPC. Interplay of mediators such as neuropeptides, cysteinyl leukotrienes, Th1-like and Th2-like cytokines and gamma interferon, has been suggested. Combination of ‘Honey and ‘Coffee’ and Suhuang Zhing, a traditional Chinese medicine is reported to demonstrate clinical efficacy in clinical trials. Natural products and herbal medicines appear to be superior to conventional treatments.