Calls for scientific approach to cough categorisation
Kenvue released its latest research study which highlights critical gaps in how cough is managed in India calling for urgent adoption of a scientific approach to cough evaluation and management The latest findings published in Journal of the Association of Physicians of India (JAPI) shows that while cough is one of the most common reasons for outpatient visits, it continues to be poorly categorised and incorrectly treated, with high reliance on antibiotics and fixed-dose combinations.
In its pioneering efforts, Kenvue in India released its first-of-its-kind research based on Electronic Medical Records (EMR) data from 22 lakh+ patients. The analysis found that most cough cases were recorded as “unspecified i.e. not classified as productive or nonproductive or allergic etc. In fact, 71.04 per cent of adult patients and 66.42 per cent of elderly patients were not classified as productive or nonproductive cough. This lack of categorization prevents symptom-specific care and often leads to treatment guided by habit rather than evidence. The study also revealed widespread antibiotic use, with more than half of all patients prescribed them regardless of cough type. Among adults, 60.3 per centof those with productive cough and 53.1 per cent with nonproductive cough received antibiotics, while in the elderly, 62 per cent with productive cough and 52.3 per cent with nonproductive cough were given similar prescriptions.
The findings highlight the critical need for rational prescribing practices, particularly in reducing the overuse of antibiotics, improving documentation and tailored treatment approaches. This approach aims to enhance clinical outcomes and address the complexities of cough management while adapting treatment strategies to the evolving healthcare landscape.
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. 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 recognize 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 categorization 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 standardized, 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 in India study, supported by initiatives such as Cough Clinics, aim to improve cough management in India. By prioritizing rational prescribing, accurate categorization, and evidence-based practice, the path is being laid for better patient outcomes and stronger protection against antimicrobial resistance.
