Yes, cough suppressant is eligible for purchase with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Is Cough Suppressant FSA/HSA Eligible?
Cough suppressants are used to treat persistent coughing caused by medical conditions such as the common cold, flu, bronchitis, or other respiratory infections. Because they are used to treat a specific, diagnosable condition, cough suppressants qualify as eligible medical expenses under IRS Code Section 213(d).
The CARES Act of 2020 allows over-the-counter (OTC) medications, including cough suppressants, to be purchased with FSA or HSA funds without a prescription. These medications work by suppressing the body’s natural cough reflex and are available in both liquid and tablet forms.
FSA- and HSA-eligible cough suppressants include:
Dextromethorphan-based syrups and tablets (e.g., Delsym®, Robitussin® DM)
Combination cold and flu medicines that include a cough suppressant (e.g., NyQuil®, DayQuil®, Theraflu®)
Children’s cough suppressants specifically labeled to relieve cough due to illness
All eligible products contain an active medicinal ingredient and are marketed for treating a medical condition.
What’s Not Covered?
Dietary supplements and herbal remedies are never FSA/HSA eligible, even if marketed for “respiratory support” or “natural cough relief.” These do not meet the requirements for medical use and do not contain approved active medicinal ingredients.
Homeopathic cough suppressants are generally eligible, provided they contain an active medicinal ingredient and have a National Drug Code (NDC). These products are classified as medicines and are not subject to the same restrictions as supplements.
Always ensure that the product is sold and labeled specifically to treat cough symptoms—not for general wellness or cosmetic comfort.
How to Buy Cough Suppressant with Your FSA or HSA
You can purchase cough suppressants 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 labeled as cough suppressants or cold/cough treatment
Save your receipt in case your plan administrator requests documentation
Avoid products marketed as supplements or herbal remedies without a defined medical use
