E-DRUG: Need for cough mixtures (contd.)
----------------------------------------
I totally agree with the rational argument that cough syrups
cannot be therapeutically justified except in the few
circumstances already documented in this debate, and that they
may mask a vital symptom. But rational argument has to relate
also to the practice realities of patient care and a soothing
cough syrup (such as simple linctus) can be very cost effective
care, providing all that is required, and avoiding the temptation
(by prescriber or patient) to use other inappropriate and more expensive agents. I hesitate to call it a placebo because it does
have a mechanically soothing effect for a brief time.
Has anyone ever considered that there could be an overuse of antibiotics (and other drugs) as a result of the absence of
simple, cheap and symptomatic products which are aimed at
palliative care? Are we being too rational by excluding cough
syrups from drug lists? We are treating patients with diease
not just diseases, therefore I can justify comforting
the patient if only to avoid them seeking "comfort" in
unjustified chemicals at an unjustified cost.
Paul D Spivey
23 Colthill Road
Milltimber
Aberdeenshire AB13 0EF
Scotland ,UK
Telephone/fax: (44) 1224 734501
Email: Paul_Spivey@compuserve.com
--
Send mail for the `E-Drug' conference to `e-drug@usa.healthnet.org'.
Mail administrative requests to `majordomo@usa.healthnet.org'.
For additional assistance, send mail to: `owner-e-drug@usa.healthnet.org'.