Kenvue, the world’s largest pure-play consumer health company by revenue and the maker of Benadryl®, has launched an industry-first initiative—‘Cough Clinics’—in collaboration with the Association of Physicians of India (API). Through this scientific program, Kenvue plans to set up 10 Cough Centres of Excellence across India to promote evidence-based approaches for evaluating and treating cough.
First Centre Launched in Mumbai
The press release announces that Kenvue and API have established the inaugural Cough Centre of Excellence at BSES Hospital in Andheri, Mumbai. These centres provide systematic training to healthcare professionals and raise awareness about rational and effective cough management.
Addressing a Widespread Health Concern
In India, adults experience around three episodes of cough annually, while children suffer from 7–10 episodes. Post-COVID, both the frequency and duration of cough have increased significantly. Despite its prevalence, 70% of cough cases are treated empirically—without a confirmed diagnosis—according to a study published in the Journal of the Association of Physicians of India. This often results in the use of irrational, multi-ingredient cough syrups that may lead to adverse effects and increase treatment costs, especially for vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
Bridging the Gap with a Science-Backed Approach
To address this critical gap, Kenvue and API’s Cough Clinics are equipping primary care physicians with practical tools and updated clinical knowledge. The initiative introduces a simplified, symptom-based approach that includes decoding cough sounds, identifying red flags, and classifying coughs as wet, dry, or multi-symptom.
Expert-Driven Training Modules
The Cough Clinics will feature three structured learning modules. These modules cover key areas such as:
- Scientific cough evaluation
- Sound-based symptom recognition
- Evidence-based treatment decision-making
Each session is curated by experts from API and will be led by renowned pulmonologists. Participating doctors will undergo assessments to track knowledge gains and will share their feedback through Net Promoter Scores (NPS).
Industry Leaders Emphasize the Need for Change
Prashant Shinde, Business Unit Head – Self-Care, Kenvue India, said, “Doctors have trusted Benadryl® for over 50 years. We continue to offer simple, effective, and science-based solutions. We focus on educating physicians about non-bronchodilator treatments for productive coughs since evidence shows bronchodilators are often unnecessary. Our partnership with API takes a significant step toward simplifying cough care through this pioneering program.”
Dr. Agam Vora, Hon. General Secretary of API, added, “Primary care in India lacks standardized tools for diagnosing cough, leading to empirical treatments and missed early interventions. The launch of Cough Clinics will empower physicians with specialized training to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient care.”
Introducing the Cough Categorization Tool
A key feature of this initiative is the Cough Categorization Tool, developed by national experts and published in JAPI in 2024. This practical tool helps clinicians accurately classify coughs and select appropriate, targeted treatments—ensuring safer and more effective care.
Nationwide Rollout Planned
Following the Mumbai launch, Kenvue will extend the initiative to cities like Lucknow, Chandigarh, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Kolkata. In its first year, the program aims to train over 1,000 healthcare professionals across India.
A Step Toward Rational Cough Care
Dr. Harshad Malve, Medical Head – Self Care & Operations at Kenvue, concluded, “India’s cough segment is overwhelmed by complex, irrational formulations. With API’s support, we’re pushing for a simplified, validated approach to diagnosis and treatment—improving patient safety and outcomes.”