Gefapixant is a drug approved for the treatment of chronic cough due to underlying conditions, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is a receptor antagonist that blocks the action of the chemical substance in the brain responsible for causing the urge to cough. Gefapixant is believed to reduce the intensity and frequency of coughing, and improve overall respiratory health. It can be taken as a pill or inhaled as an aerosol. It is usually prescribed to be taken once daily in the evening. Common side effects include headache, nausea, and dry mouth
Gefapixant is a medication specifically designed to treat chronic cough, specifically refractory chronic cough (RCC) and unexplained chronic cough (UCC). Here's a breakdown of its key points:
- Function: It works by blocking P2X3 receptors, which are involved in the cough reflex. By inhibiting these receptors, Gefapixant reduces cough frequency.
- Brand Name: Lyfnua
- Approval Status:
- Approved for use in the European Union (EU) since September 2023 for adults with RCC and UCC.
- Approved in Japan and Switzerland in 2022 for similar indications.
- Currently under review by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) - application awaiting further data for approval.
- Important Note: Gefapixant is not a narcotic medication and is administered orally.
If you're interested in learning more about Gefapixant, here are some reliable sources:
- Wikipedia article on Gefapixant: [Wikipedia Gefapixant]
- DrugBank entry on Gefapixant, including its mechanism of action: [DrugBank Gefapixant]