The antitussive (cough suppressant) effect of drugs like Dextromethorphan is primarily achieved through which mechanism?
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Correct answer: Central suppression of the cough reflex in the medulla
Opioids suppress the cough reflex in the medullary cough center. Dextromethorphan, the d-isomer of the codeine analog levorphanol, lacks analgesic and addictive properties at antitussive doses but remains highly effective for cough.
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