Best Medicine For Cold And Fever For Adults
Cold and fever are common ailments that affect everyone at some point in their lives. While these illnesses may not be serious, they can be quite uncomfortable and even debilitating. Fortunately, there are many over-the-counter medications that can help alleviate the symptoms of cold and fever. In this article, we will explore some of the best medicine for cold and fever that are available for adults.
Common Symptoms of Cold and Fever
Before we delve into the best medicine for cold and fever, let's first take a look at the common symptoms of these illnesses.
Symptoms of cold may include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Body ache
- Mild fever
Symptoms of fever may include:
- High temperature
- Chills and shivering
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Weakness
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication.
Best Medicine for Cold and Fever
There are several types of over-the-counter medications that can help alleviate the symptoms of cold and fever. The following are some of the most effective ones:
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Acetaminophen is a pain-reliever and fever-reducer that is commonly used to treat mild to moderate fever and pain associated with cold and flu. It is available in tablet, capsule or liquid form and can be taken every 4-6 hours as needed. Acetaminophen is generally considered safe when taken as directed, but it can cause liver damage if taken in large doses or for a long period of time.
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to reduce fever and relieve pain caused by cold and flu. It works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Ibuprofen is available in tablet, capsule, and liquid form and can be taken every 6-8 hours as needed. However, it is not recommended for people with a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding disorders.
Aspirin
Aspirin is another type of NSAID that is used to reduce fever and relieve pain associated with cold and flu. It is available in tablet, capsule, and liquid form and can be taken every 4-6 hours as needed. However, aspirin is not recommended for children under 18 years of age as it can cause a rare but serious condition called Reye's syndrome. It is also not recommended for people with a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding disorders.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a type of medication that is used to relieve symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itching caused by cold and flu. They work by blocking the action of histamine, which is a chemical that is released by the body in response to an allergen. Antihistamines are available in tablet, capsule, and liquid form and can be taken every 4-6 hours as needed. However, they can cause drowsiness and should not be taken before driving or operating heavy machinery.
Decongestants
Decongestants are a type of medication that is used to relieve nasal congestion caused by cold and flu. They work by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and congestion. Decongestants are available in tablet, capsule, and liquid form and can be taken every 4-6 hours as needed. However, they can cause side effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure and should not be taken by people with a history of heart disease or high blood pressure.
Conclusion
Cold and fever are common ailments that can be quite uncomfortable and even debilitating. Fortunately, there are many over-the-counter medications that can help alleviate the symptoms of these illnesses. However, it is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication to ensure that it is safe and effective for you.
