Randomized single-blind trial in general practice comparing the efficacy and palatability of two cough linctus preparations, ‘Pholcolix’ and ‘Actifed' Compound, in children with acute cough

Two hundred and seventeen patients between 6 and 12 years of age suffering from acute cough took part in a randomized, single-blind study comparing 'Pholcolix' and 'Actifed' Compound. No significant difference in efficacy was demonstrated but analysis of palatability components (taste, smell, aftertaste and feeling in the mouth) showed numerical superiority for 'Pholcolix' for all parameters, with a high degree of significance for overall taste. 'Pholcolix' caused significantly fewer side-effects, with 'Actifed' Compound causing markedly more drowsiness after daytime dosage.