The Use of Noscapine (Narcotine) as an Antitussive Agent

¹ Clinical Professor of Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine and Director, Lung Station (Tufts) and Department of Inhalation Therapy, Boston City Hospital.
² Clinical Instructor assigned Lung Station (Tufts) and Department of Inhalation Therapy, Boston City Hospital.
³ Assistant Professor in Medicine assigned Lung Station (Tufts) and Department of Inhalation Therapy, Boston City Hospital.

1. In clinical studies, Noscapine administered orally in doses of 15 to 60 mg. at graded intervals proved effective as an antitussive agent in 94 per cent of 54 trials in 51 patients who were treated for cough due to various types of bronchopulmonary disease. Its maximum effectiveness (3 to 4+ cough suppression), however, was noted in 48 per cent of the overall group.

2. In 23 out of 30 trials, (77 per cent), comparable or better effects were observed with Noscapine when compared with other antitussive agents.

3. There were no side effects noted in 45 persons treated with Noscapine. Moderate drowsiness was observed in three patients; difficulty in raising secretions in two; headache in one. A gradual loss of effectiveness was observed in three cases. No gastrointestinal complaints or respiratory depression was noted in any of the cases receiving Noscapine.