What is the primary use of antitussives in respiratory care?

Antitussives are primarily used in respiratory care to suppress the cough reflex. Coughing is a common response to various stimuli in the respiratory tract, including irritation or inflammation. While coughing is a protective mechanism that helps clear mucus, secretions, or irritants from the airways, it can become excessive or disruptive in certain situations, such as in cases of non-productive coughs associated with conditions like upper respiratory infections or allergies.

By alleviating this persistent coughing, antitussives can improve patient comfort and overall quality of life, especially when the cough is causing pain or interfering with sleep. These medications work by acting on the central nervous system or the cough receptors in the respiratory tract, effectively reducing the urge to cough.

On the other hand, increasing mucus production is not the role of antitussives; that function would typically be associated with expectorants. Stimulating the respiratory drive is more relevant to medications known as respiratory stimulants rather than antitussives. Additionally, treating bacterial infections involves the use of antibiotics, which is a different category of medication entirely. Thus, the primary and correct use of antitussives is indeed to suppress the cough reflex.