4‐Phenyl‐1‐piperidinecarboxamide (AH 1932) markedly inhibits coughing induced in laboratory animals by chemical or mechanical irritation of the respiratory tract or by electrical stimulation of the superior laryngeal nerve. The compound is effective administered orally or parenterally and is at least as active as codeine. In contrast to codeine the antitussive activity of AH 1932 persists for 6 hr after oral administration. The evidence suggests a central site of action for AH 1932. The drug has a low acute toxicity in mice and rats, is devoid of analgesic activity, has no effect on the respiratory system and does not affect gastrointestinal propulsion. Cardiovascular effects are minimal. AH 1932 possesses weak spinal interneuron blocking activity unlikely to limit its use as a cough suppre