: An antihistamine-opioid combination often used for severe nighttime coughing. It is a controlled substance due to the risk of habit formation.

Prescription syrups are typically reserved for severe coughs that do not respond to OTC treatments. These are more powerful because they contain narcotic ingredients that act directly on the brain's cough center.

: While often prescribed as capsules rather than syrup, this non-narcotic medication numbs the throat and lungs to quiet the cough reflex for up to 8 hours. Strongest Over-the-Counter (OTC) Syrups Which Is the Best Cough Medicine: Prescription vs. OTC?

: A combination that suppresses the cough reflex while thinning mucus to make it easier to expel.