Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2025
Methods for Detecting Cough and Airway Inflammation in Mice
Published on: August 2, 2024
Neuromodulators in Acute and Chronic Cough in Children: An Update from the Literature
Simone Foti Randazzese1, Fabio Toscano1, Antonella Gambadauro1
1Pediatric Unit, Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age "Gaetano Barresi", University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98124 Messina, Italy.
Insights
Pediatric cough, a common ailment affecting children and families, may be managed with neuromodulators. This review explores their use in treating cough by modulating neural pathways.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Cough is a frequent pediatric complaint impacting quality of life.
- The cough reflex involves a complex neural pathway.
- Cough in children is classified as acute (<4 weeks) or chronic (>4 weeks).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the rationale for using neuromodulators in pediatric cough management.
- To explore the potential of neuromodulators in reducing cough frequency and severity.
- To highlight the importance of patient selection and monitoring for neuromodulator therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on neuromodulators and pediatric cough.
- Analysis of the neural pathways involved in the cough reflex.
- Examination of clinical evidence for neuromodulator efficacy and safety.
Main Results:
- Neuromodulators demonstrate potential in managing pediatric cough.
- Modulating neural pathways offers a promising therapeutic approach.
- Careful patient selection and monitoring are crucial for optimal outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Neuromodulators represent a potential therapeutic option for pediatric cough.
- Further research is warranted to establish optimal use and efficacy.
- This approach may improve the quality of life for children with chronic cough.
Abstract:
Cough is one of the most common reasons leading to pediatric consultations, negatively impacting the quality of life of patients and caregivers. It is defined as a sudden and forceful expulsion of air from the lungs through the mouth, typically triggered by irritation or the stimulation of sensory nerves in the respiratory tract. This reflex is controlled by a neural pathway that includes sensory receptors, afferent nerves, the brainstem's cough center, efferent nerves, and the muscles involved in coughing. Based on its duration, cough in children may be classified as acute, lasting less than four weeks, and chronic, persisting for more than four weeks. Neuromodulators have shown promise in reducing the frequency and severity of cough by modulating the neural pathways involved in the cough reflex, although they require careful monitoring and patient selection to optimize the outcomes. This review aims to examine the rationale for using neuromodulators in the management of cough in children.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Upper Respiratory Drugs: Antitussives, Expectorants, and Mucolytics
Antitussives include codeine, dextromethorphan (Robitussin), and benzonatate (Tessalon). Codeine and dextromethorphan exert their effects centrally by suppressing the cough reflex center in the medulla. Benzonatate operates peripherally within the respiratory tract by...
01:23Drugs Acting on Autonomic Ganglia: Stimulants
Ganglionic stimulants activate NM nicotinic receptors in autonomic ganglia, falling into two categories: nicotine mimetics [e.g., lobeline, dimethylpiperazine, tetramethylammonium] and muscarinic receptor agonists [e.g., muscarine, methacholine]. The first category's action is rapid and blocked by nicotinic receptor antagonists, while the second category's action is delayed and blocked by atropine-like agents. Nicotine, an alkaloid, affects the heart rate by stimulating...
01:11Direct-Acting Cholinergic Agonists: Therapeutic Uses
01:26Cholinergic Antagonists: Therapeutic Uses
Respiratory Tract: Ipratropium, aclidinium, and tiotropium treat asthma, chronic bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They protect against bronchoconstriction caused by irritants like cigarette smoke, sulfur dioxide, and ozone. They also help reduce nasopharyngeal...
00:59Direct-Acting Cholinergic Agonists: Pharmacological Actions
01:28Drugs Acting on Autonomic Ganglia: Blockers