Kenvue study reveals gaps in cough management in India, calls for evidence-based approach

Kenvue, makers of Benadryl, released its latest research study highlighting gaps in cough management in India and calling for urgent adoption of a scientific approach to cough evaluation and treatment. The findings, published in the Journal of the Association of Physicians of India (JAPI), show that while cough is among the most common reasons for outpatient visits, it is often poorly categorised and incorrectly treated, with high reliance on antibiotics and fixed-dose combinations.

The study, based on Electronic Medical Records (EMR) from more than 22 lakh patients, found that most cough cases were recorded as “unspecified,” without classification as productive, nonproductive, or allergic. Among adults, 71.04 per cent of cases were unclassified, while 66.42 per cent of elderly patients were not classified. The lack of categorisation limits symptom-specific care and often leads to treatment guided by habit rather than evidence.

The research also revealed widespread antibiotic use. Over half of all patients received antibiotics regardless of cough type. Among adults, 60.3 per cent with productive cough and 53.1 per cent with nonproductive cough were prescribed antibiotics. Among elderly patients, 62 per cent with productive cough and 52.3 per cent with nonproductive cough received antibiotics. Azithromycin was the most frequently prescribed antibiotic, followed by cefpodoxime, with fixed-dose combinations such as amoxicillin with clavulanic acid also commonly used. Multi-ingredient cough formulations were identified as a continuing concern. The study notes that such practices contribute to higher healthcare costs, unnecessary side-effects, and antimicrobial resistance.

Dr. Agam Vora, Hon. General Secretary, Association of Physicians of India (API), said, “This study highlights that cough, despite being one of the most common health complaints, continues to be treated in ways that lack scientific consistency. This undermines patient care, prolongs symptoms, and exposes people to unnecessary medicines. The findings advocate for rational prescribing practices, particularly in reducing the overuse of antibiotics, and call for better documentation and tailored treatment approaches. This issue ultimately aims to enhance clinical outcomes by addressing the complexities of cough management and adapting treatment strategies to the evolving healthcare landscape.”

Dr. Vora further added, “The overuse of antibiotics in cough management is alarming. Antibiotics are being prescribed even when they are not indicated, and this practice is fuelling antimicrobial resistance at a time when the world is already grappling with resistant infections. The continued availability and use of irrational multi-ingredient cough syrups only makes the problem worse. This study highlights that India must urgently align everyday clinical practice with evidence-based recommendations, prioritising rational prescribing and strict categorisation. Only then can we safeguard both individual patients and the healthcare system at large.”

Responding to the findings, Dr. Harshad Malve, Medical Head Self Care & Operations, Kenvue, said, “The study highlights the need for an urgent structured approach to cough management in India. At Kenvue, we recognise that doctors need practical tools, not just broad recommendations. With an aim to drive a scientific approach to cough evaluation and management, Kenvue in India has collaborated with the Association of Physicians of India (API) to launch Cough Clinics across 10 cities starting with the first dedicated Cough Clinic at BSES Hospital in Mumbai. This initiative provides physicians with validated categorisation tools, structured training modules, and real-world guidance on rational prescribing. Our goal is to support healthcare professionals in moving away from empirical treatment and toward standardised, evidence-based care. The Cough Clinics represent a new model for tackling one of India’s most common yet most mismanaged health problems, ensuring patients receive the right treatment at the right time.”

The findings from the Kenvue study, supported by initiatives such as the Cough Clinics, aim to improve cough management in India. By prioritising rational prescribing, accurate categorisation, and evidence-based practice, the initiative seeks to enhance patient outcomes and strengthen protection against antimicrobial resistance.