Baclofen for the Treatment of Cough

GABAB receptor agonists have long been implicated in the control of the cough reflex. Animal studies have demonstrated the presence of GABAB receptors in the upper airways, the trachea, and the dorsal root ganglia. Several preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated the antitussive effect of the GABAB agonist baclofen. However, its use in clinical practice has been limited due to significant central nervous system side effects. In this chapter, we review the role of GABA and GABAB receptor agonists in cough.