In Treatment of Cough Cadiphylate Elixir gives relief from cough by loosening thick mucus and making it easier to cough it out. It also makes it easier for air to move in and out of your airways. This reduces the frequency of coughing. This medicine usually starts to work within a few minutes and the effects can last up to several hours. Take it in the exact dose and duration as prescribed by the doctor. Along with medications, drink enough lukewarm water and gargle with warm salt water to ease the symptoms.