Cold remedies

Prescription or nonprescription medications that relieve some of the symptoms of the common cold. Cold remedies cannot prevent or cure the viral infections that cause the cold, but they can sometimes make the person who has a cold feel more comfortable. These cold remedies fall into several general categories: antihistamines; decongestant drugs; nose sprays, which are are decongestants directly applied to the inside of the nose; cough remedies; pain relievers; and multisymptom or combination “cold and flu” preparations.


Products available without prescription to help alleviate a cough. Coughing is a useful process in which secretions (mucus) are cleared from the throat and the lungs (a “productive” cough); productive coughs should generally not be suppressed, since they serve a valuable purpose. However, a dry or unproductive cough that hurts the throat or interferes with sleep may benefit from treatment with a cold remedy.


Cold remedies are formulations utilized to alleviate symptoms associated with colds. Typically, these remedies contain a primary ingredient of a mild analgesic drug, such as paracetamol or aspirin, to provide relief from aches and pains. Additionally, antihistamine drugs and decongestant drugs are commonly included to help alleviate nasal congestion. Some formulations may contain caffeine as a mild stimulant, while others may incorporate vitamin C.


 


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