Which cough medicine suits a dry, hacking cough versus a wet, mucus-producing cough?

A suppressant is better for a dry, hacking cough, while an expectorant addresses wet coughs

Treating a cough effectively requires understanding its underlying mechanism, as different types of cough medicines target different problems. A wet, mucus-producing cough indicates that the body is trying to clear respiratory secretions, which is a productive function. For this type of cough, an expectorant is recommended because it helps to thin and loosen the mucus, making it easier to expel from the airways. In contrast, a dry, hacking cough serves no productive purpose and is often the result of irritation or inflammation in the throat and upper airways. For this non-productive cough, a cough suppressant is indicated, as its function is to chemically calm the cough reflex itself, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of the irritating spasms.