Best Otc Medicine To Dry Up Runny Nose
Dealing with a runny nose can be frustrating and uncomfortable. It can make it difficult to breathe, sleep, or even concentrate. There are many factors that can cause a runny nose, including allergies, colds, and sinus infections. Luckily, over-the-counter (OTC) medicines can help alleviate the symptoms of a runny nose. In this article, we will discuss the best OTC medicine to dry up a runny nose.
1. Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a type of medication that can help relieve the symptoms of allergies, including a runny nose. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical that is released by the body in response to an allergen. Some common OTC antihistamines include:
Claritin (loratadine)
Claritin is a popular OTC antihistamine that can help relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, including a runny nose. It is available in tablet, liquid, and chewable form. Claritin is non-drowsy, and it has few side effects.
Zyrtec (cetirizine)
Zyrtec is another popular OTC antihistamine that can help relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, including a runny nose. It is available in tablet and liquid form. Zyrtec is non-drowsy, and it has few side effects.
Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
Benadryl is an OTC antihistamine that can help relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, including a runny nose. It is available in tablet, liquid, and topical form. Benadryl can cause drowsiness, so it should be used with caution.
2. Decongestants
Decongestants are a type of medication that can help relieve nasal congestion, which can cause a runny nose. They work by constricting the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and allows for easier breathing. Some common OTC decongestants include:
Sudafed (pseudoephedrine)
Sudafed is an OTC decongestant that can help relieve nasal congestion, which can cause a runny nose. It is available in tablet and liquid form. Sudafed can cause side effects such as nervousness and increased blood pressure, so it should be used with caution.
Afrin (oxymetazoline)
Afrin is an OTC decongestant nasal spray that can help relieve nasal congestion, which can cause a runny nose. It works quickly, but it should not be used for more than three days in a row, as it can cause rebound congestion.
3. Nasal Steroids
Nasal steroids are a type of medication that can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, which can cause a runny nose. They work by blocking the effects of certain chemicals that cause inflammation. Some common OTC nasal steroids include:
Flonase (fluticasone propionate)
Flonase is an OTC nasal steroid that can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, which can cause a runny nose. It is available in nasal spray form. Flonase has few side effects, but it should be used with caution in people with certain medical conditions.
Nasacort (triamcinolone acetonide)
Nasacort is another OTC nasal steroid that can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, which can cause a runny nose. It is available in nasal spray form. Nasacort has few side effects, but it should be used with caution in people with certain medical conditions.
Conclusion
A runny nose can be a nuisance, but there are many OTC medicines that can help alleviate the symptoms. Antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal steroids are all effective at drying up a runny nose. However, it is important to use these medicines with caution, as they can cause side effects in some people. If you have any questions or concerns about which OTC medicine to use for your runny nose, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.