Cough medicine is an over-the-counter medication that is used to treat coughs and associated symptoms of colds and flu. There are many types of cough medicine available, each with different active ingredients and mechanisms of action. Some common synonyms for cough medicine include cough suppressant, expectorant, antitussive, and bronchodilator. A cough suppressant is designed to stop the urge to cough, while expectorants target thick mucus in the lungs and make it easier to expel. Antitussives work by suppressing the cough reflex, and bronchodilators reduce inflammation in the airways to help improve breathing. It's important to choose the right type of cough medicine based on the cause and severity of your symptoms.