Best Otc Medicine For Stuffy Nose And Cough
Having a stuffy nose and cough can be a real nuisance, especially when it comes to getting a good night's sleep or focusing on work during the day. Luckily, there are many over-the-counter (OTC) medicines available that can help relieve these symptoms. In this article, we'll go over some of the best OTC medicines for stuffy nose and cough, and discuss how they work and what to look for when choosing one.
Decongestants
Decongestants are a type of medicine that can help relieve a stuffy nose by shrinking the blood vessels in the nasal passages. They come in both pill and nasal spray form, and are available OTC. Some common decongestants include:
- Sudafed (pseudoephedrine)
- Afrin (oxymetazoline)
- Zicam (zinc gluconate)
When using a decongestant, it's important to follow the instructions carefully, as overuse can lead to a rebound effect where the nasal passages actually become more congested over time. Decongestants can also have side effects like increased blood pressure and heart rate, so if you have high blood pressure or a heart condition, be sure to talk to your doctor before using one.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are another type of OTC medicine that can help with a stuffy nose, but they work in a different way than decongestants. Antihistamines block the action of histamine, a chemical that is released by the body in response to allergens like pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. By blocking histamine, antihistamines can reduce the swelling and inflammation in the nasal passages that can cause congestion.
Some common antihistamines include:
- Claritin (loratadine)
- Zyrtec (cetirizine)
- Allegra (fexofenadine)
Antihistamines can also have side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness, so be sure to read the label carefully and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Cough Suppressants
If you're dealing with a cough in addition to a stuffy nose, a cough suppressant can help. Cough suppressants work by blocking the cough reflex in the brain, which can help reduce the frequency and severity of coughing fits.
Some common cough suppressants include:
- Delsym (dextromethorphan)
- Robitussin (guaifenesin)
- Vicks VapoRub (camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil)
Cough suppressants can have side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and upset stomach, so be sure to read the label carefully and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Expectorants
If you have a productive cough, meaning you're coughing up mucus or phlegm, an expectorant can help thin the mucus and make it easier to cough up. Expectorants work by loosening the mucus in the airways and helping to move it out of the body.
Some common expectorants include:
- Mucinex (guaifenesin)
- Robo-FM (guaifenesin and codeine)
- Benylin (dextromethorphan and guaifenesin)
Expectorants can have side effects like nausea, dizziness, and headache, so be sure to read the label carefully and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Conclusion
If you're dealing with a stuffy nose and cough, there are many OTC medicines available that can help relieve your symptoms. Decongestants, antihistamines, cough suppressants, and expectorants are all good options, depending on your specific symptoms and needs. Be sure to read the label carefully and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns or if your symptoms persist or worsen.