What is the main effect of antitussives on the body?

Antitussives primarily work by inhibiting the cough center of the brain, which is located in the medulla oblongata. This action effectively suppresses the cough reflex, which can be beneficial for patients with dry, persistent coughs that do not serve a productive purpose. By reducing the frequency and intensity of coughing, antitussives help alleviate discomfort and allow individuals to rest, especially when the cough is disruptive.

The other options focus on different physiological actions. Stimulating mucus production is typically associated with expectorants rather than antitussives, which aim to reduce coughing rather than promote mucus clearance. Reducing inflammation in the airways is a primary action of corticosteroids and other anti-inflammatory treatments, not antitussives. An increase in respiratory rate is not a direct effect of antitussive agents; in fact, suppressing the cough reflex may stabilize the respiratory rate in individuals experiencing a constant cough. Understanding these distinctions highlights the specific role of antitussives in managing cough symptoms.