Over The Counter Medicine For Sore Throat And Runny Nose
Having a sore throat and runny nose is a common occurrence, especially during the cold and flu season. Symptoms can range from mildly inconvenient to downright uncomfortable. Over the counter (OTC) medicines can be a quick and easy solution to provide relief. In this article, we will discuss the different types of OTC medicines available for sore throat and runny nose and how they work.
Decongestants
Decongestants work by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and congestion. They are available in pill or nasal spray form. Nasal sprays tend to work faster, but they should not be used for more than three days in a row to avoid rebound congestion. Common decongestants include:
- Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
- Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)
- Oxymetazoline (Afrin)
Decongestants can cause side effects such as elevated blood pressure, rapid heart rate, and insomnia. They should be avoided in people with certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure and thyroid disease.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines work by blocking histamine, a chemical that is released during an allergic reaction. They are commonly used to treat symptoms of allergies such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes. Common antihistamines include:
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- Loratadine (Claritin)
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
Antihistamines can cause drowsiness and dry mouth. They should be avoided in people with certain medical conditions such as glaucoma and prostate enlargement.
Pain Relievers
Pain relievers work by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals. They are commonly used to treat sore throat and headache. Common pain relievers include:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Naproxen (Aleve)
Pain relievers can cause side effects such as stomach upset and bleeding. They should be used with caution in people with certain medical conditions such as liver disease and bleeding disorders.
Combination Medicines
Combination medicines contain more than one active ingredient to treat multiple symptoms. They are commonly used to treat cold and flu symptoms. Common combination medicines include:
- Acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine (Theraflu)
- Acetaminophen, chlorpheniramine, and phenylephrine (Tylenol Cold and Flu Severe)
- Ibuprofen, pseudoephedrine, and chlorpheniramine (Advil Cold and Sinus)
Combination medicines can cause side effects from each active ingredient. They should be used with caution in people with certain medical conditions and should not be used in children under certain ages.
Conclusion
OTC medicines can provide relief for sore throat and runny nose symptoms. It is important to read the labels carefully and follow the recommended dosages. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to seek medical attention. Remember, prevention is the best medicine. Wash your hands frequently, avoid close contact with sick individuals, and practice good respiratory hygiene.