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Precision Induction and Distinction of Coughing and Sneezing Reflexes in Mice
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Cough reduction using capsaicin.

Ewa Ternesten-Hasséus1, Ewa-Lena Johansson2, Eva Millqvist1

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine/Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden.

Respiratory Medicine
|December 4, 2014
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Oral capsaicin (chilli) intake reduced cough reflex sensitivity and improved chronic cough symptoms in patients. This suggests a desensitization of the transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1) pathway, offering a potential new treatment for unexplained cough.

Keywords:
CapsaicinChronic coughDesensitizationSensory hyperreactivity

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Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Respiratory Medicine

Background:

  • Chronic unexplained cough is often linked to heightened cough reflex sensitivity.
  • Environmental irritants can trigger cough in sensitive individuals.
  • Capsaicin has shown efficacy in managing conditions like non-allergic rhinitis and intestinal hypersensitivity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate if oral intake of natural capsaicin can desensitize the cough reflex.
  • To determine if capsaicin improves symptoms in patients with unexplained chronic cough.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized, double-blind, crossover study involving 24 patients with chronic cough and 15 controls.
  • Participants consumed capsaicin or placebo capsules for 4 weeks each.
  • Cough reflex sensitivity was assessed using capsaicin inhalation tests (measuring C2 and C5 thresholds).

Main Results:

  • Oral capsaicin significantly increased cough thresholds (C2 and C5) in patients compared to baseline and placebo.
  • Cough reflex sensitivity improved in both patients and controls after capsaicin treatment.
  • Patients reported significant improvement in cough symptom scores after capsaicin intake.

Conclusions:

  • Oral capsaicin effectively decreases cough reflex sensitivity and alleviates chronic cough symptoms.
  • The study suggests capsaicin desensitizes the transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1) receptors involved in cough.
  • Natural capsaicin presents a promising therapeutic option for managing unexplained chronic cough.