Yes, cough syrup is eligible for purchase with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Is Cough Syrup FSA/HSA Eligible?
Cough syrup is used to treat and manage symptoms of medical conditions such as the common cold, flu, bronchitis, or other upper respiratory infections. Because it is intended to relieve a diagnosed condition, cough syrup qualifies as a medical expense under IRS Code Section 213(d).
Under the CARES Act of 2020, over-the-counter (OTC) medications like cough syrup became FSA- and HSA-eligible without requiring a prescription. This includes a wide range of formulations designed to suppress cough, loosen mucus, and reduce throat irritation.
Eligible cough syrup products include:
Dextromethorphan-based cough suppressants (e.g., Delsym®, Robitussin® DM)
Guaifenesin expectorants (e.g., Mucinex® Fast-Max)
Combination cold and cough syrups (e.g., NyQuil®, DayQuil®)
Children’s cough syrups formulated to treat illness-related cough symptoms
These products are considered eligible as long as they are intended to treat a medical condition, not for general wellness or preventive use.
What’s Not Covered?
Cough syrups that are marketed as herbal or dietary supplements do not qualify. Syrups with unclear medical use or dual-purpose claims (such as immune boosting or sleep aids) may also be ineligible.
The product must have an active medical ingredient and be clearly marketed as a treatment for cough to qualify.
How to Buy Cough Syrup with Your FSA or HSA
You can purchase cough syrup 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)
Choose products labeled as cough suppressants, expectorants, or cold symptom relievers
Save your receipt in case your plan administrator requests documentation
Avoid products sold as supplements or for general wellness without a medical indication
