What is the most appropriate treatment for a patient with a residual cough following viral bronchitis?

In the case of a patient experiencing a residual cough following viral bronchitis, an inhaled muscarinic antagonist is considered the most appropriate treatment. Residual cough after a viral infection can be due to bronchial hyperreactivity or irritation that often persists even after the viral illness has resolved. Inhaled muscarinic antagonists work by reducing bronchoconstriction and mucus production, which can help alleviate cough symptoms by improving airflow and reducing airway inflammation.

Inhaled muscarinic antagonists, such as tiotropium or ipratropium, target the bronchial smooth muscle and provide bronchodilation, which can be particularly beneficial when the cough is related to mild airway obstruction or increased airway sensitivity. This approach is suitable in managing chronic coughs that arise after viral infections, especially when allergy or asthma exacerbation is suspected.

Other treatment options may not address the underlying cause of the residual cough effectively. Oral corticosteroids could reduce inflammation, but they are generally reserved for more significant airway inflammation or asthma exacerbations due to their side effects. Antihistamines can help with allergic symptoms but may not be effective against the cough resulting from viral bronchitis. Codeine cough syrup, while it may suppress coughing, does not treat the underlying bronchial