Yes, cough medicine is eligible for purchase with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Is Cough Medicine FSA/HSA Eligible?
Cough medicine is used to treat a medical condition—typically coughs caused by the common cold, flu, bronchitis, or other respiratory infections. According to IRS Code Section 213(d), over-the-counter medications that alleviate or treat a medical condition are considered eligible medical expenses.
Under the CARES Act of 2020, over-the-counter (OTC) cough medications are fully FSA- and HSA-eligible without a prescription. This includes products designed to suppress cough, loosen mucus, or relieve related symptoms like throat irritation and chest congestion.
FSA- and HSA-eligible cough medicine products include:
Cough suppressants (e.g., dextromethorphan-based products like Robitussin® or Delsym®)
Expectorants (e.g., guaifenesin-based formulas like Mucinex®)
Combination cough and cold formulas (e.g., NyQuil®, DayQuil®, Theraflu®)
Cough syrups, lozenges, or tablets labeled for the treatment of cough symptoms
Children’s cough medicines specifically intended to relieve illness-related coughing
These products are eligible as long as they contain an active medicinal ingredient and are used to treat a specific medical condition.
What’s Not Covered?
Dietary supplements and herbal remedies are never FSA/HSA eligible, even if they are marketed for “immune support” or “cold season care.” Products with cosmetic or dual-purpose use—such as breath fresheners or vitamin-infused drops—do not qualify.
Homeopathic cough medicines are generally eligible if they contain an active medicinal ingredient and have a National Drug Code (NDC). These products are considered medicines and are not subject to the same restrictions as supplements.
Always check that the product is labeled and sold as a treatment for cough symptoms, and not for general wellness or immune health.
How to Buy Cough Medicine with Your FSA or HSA
You can purchase cough medicine directly at buyFSA.com using your FSA or HSA card. Every item listed on buyFSA.com is FSA- and HSA-eligible, so there’s no guesswork or reimbursement hassle.
If purchasing elsewhere:
Use your FSA or HSA card at checkout (in-store or online)
Look for products clearly labeled to treat cough, cold, or congestion
Save your receipt in case your plan administrator requests documentation
Avoid supplements or cosmetic products not intended to treat a medical condition
