Final answer:
Antitussives suppress the cough reflex in the medulla oblongata, reducing the urge to cough.
Step-by-step explanation:
Antitussives work by suppressing the cough reflex in the medulla oblongata. The medulla oblongata is a part of the brainstem that plays a role in controlling involuntary actions, such as breathing and coughing. When antitussives are taken, they act on receptors in the medulla oblongata to reduce the sensitivity of the cough reflex, resulting in a decreased urge to cough.
Learn more about Antitussives and the cough reflex