{"id":16066,"date":"2020-10-13T13:31:31","date_gmt":"2020-10-13T17:31:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=16066"},"modified":"2024-05-28T09:58:34","modified_gmt":"2024-05-28T13:58:34","slug":"best-cold-medicine","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/best-cold-medicine\/","title":{"rendered":"Find the best cold medicine based on your symptoms"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><a href=\"#cold-medicine-types\">Types of cold medicine<\/a> | <a href=\"#best-cold-medicine\">Best cold medicines<\/a> | <a href=\"#rid-cold-fast\">How to get rid of a cold fast<\/a> | <a href=\"#cold-natural-remedies\">Natural remedies<\/a> | <a href=\"#cold-medicine-symptoms\">Symptom-specific cold medicines<\/a> | <a href=\"#when-to-see-doctor\">When to see a doctor<\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The common cold is a viral infection that affects the nose and throat. The bad news is that it takes some time to get over a cold virus, but the good news is that treatment requires just a quick trip to the pharmacy. Cold medicine like decongestants and cough suppressants can help alleviate symptoms such as a stuffy nose or sore throat. Let\u2019s take a look at some of the best cold medicines so you\u2019ll know what to look for if you or one of your family members gets a cold.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\" data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;&quot;}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:6849,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;9&quot;:1,&quot;10&quot;:2,&quot;12&quot;:0,&quot;14&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0},&quot;15&quot;:&quot;Arial&quot;}\" data-sheets-formula=\"=CONCATENATE(R[0]C[-2],R[0]C[-3],R[0]C[-1])\"><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"cold-medicine-types\">Types of cold medicines<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The following list of cold medicines can help treat cold symptoms such as a runny nose, congestion, sneezing, sore throat, or coughing. None of these medications can cure a cold; they only provide symptomatic relief.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antihistamines<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/antihistamines\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antihistamines<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> primarily treat allergies. Since there is some overlap between allergy and cold symptoms, antihistamines can also treat sneezing, runny noses, and itchy and watery eyes that come from having a cold. First-generation antihistamines <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uspharmacist.com\/article\/the-common-cold-a-review-of-otc-options#:~:text=To%20help%20relieve%20a%20runny,the%20management%20of%20these%20symptoms.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">are preferred over<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> second-generation antihistamines because they\u2019re better at treating symptoms like sneezing and a runny nose. Over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines that can help treat cold symptoms include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chlor-Trimeton (chlorpheniramine maleate)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tavist (clemastine fumarate)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other antihistamines like Astelin (azelastine), available as a nasal spray or eye drops, require a prescription from a doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>RELATED: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/non-drowsy-benadryl\/\"><b>Non-drowsy Benadryl: What are my options?<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cough suppressants\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the best medications for a cold accompanied by a cough is a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/best-cough-medicine\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cough suppressant<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Cough suppressants are especially helpful to take at night when many people have difficulty sleeping because of their cough. Cough suppressants (also called antitussives) work by suppressing the urge to cough. The most common OTC cough suppressant for the common cold is dextromethorphan, as found in Delsym and combination formulations of Robitussin.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For more severe coughing that lasts longer than a few weeks, a doctor may prescribe a cough medicine like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/codeine-sulfate\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">codeine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/hydrocodone-acetaminophen\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hydrocodone-acetaminophen<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The Food and Drug Administration (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/consumers\/consumer-updates\/when-give-kids-medicine-coughs-and-colds\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FDA<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) doesn\u2019t recommend over-the-counter cough medicine for children younger than 2 years old, and prescription cough medicines containing hydrocodone or codeine aren\u2019t indicated for use in children or adolescents younger than 18.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expectorants\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expectorants help to thin out mucus, making it easier to cough up mucus and alleviate chest congestion. There are many OTC expectorant products available which contain guaifenesin as their active ingredient:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tussin (guaifenesin)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mucinex ER (extended-release guaifenesin)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expectorants and antitussives can be found together in many OTC combination products, such as Robitussin DM (guaifenesin and dextromethorphan).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>RELATED: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/stop-coughing-at-night\/\"><b>How to stop coughing at night<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decongestants\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decongestants are medications that can be taken orally or through a nasal spray. \u201cDecongestants are medications that shrink the swollen membranes in the nose, allowing for easier breathing,\u201d says <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.mortontavel.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Morton Tavel<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, MD, a clinical professor emeritus of medicine in Indiana. \u201cPatients with high blood pressure should use decongestants with caution, best accomplished under a doctor&#8217;s supervision.\u201d A nasal spray decongestant, oxymetazoline (Afrin), should be used sparingly and for no more than 1 to 2 days, given its side effect of causing <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/rebound-congestion-nasal-spray-addiction\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">rebound nasal congestion<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are some of the most common OTC decongestants:\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mucinex D (pseudoephedrine-guaifenesin)\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sudafed (pseudoephedrine)\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Afrin (oxymetazoline)\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pain relievers\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Occasionally, a cold can cause various symptoms like mild body aches, headaches, and in rare cases, fevers \u2013 like flu symptoms. However, if you experience <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/flu-symptoms\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">these symptoms<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you might actually have the flu. Pain relievers can help relieve painful symptoms that other cold medications can\u2019t. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen, and other pain relievers like acetaminophen can be purchased over-the-counter for pain relief and to help reduce fevers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some combination cold medicines already include acetaminophen or ibuprofen, so it\u2019s always a good idea to double-check the label before taking a pain reliever with cold medicine. Ibuprofen and aspirin <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/reyes-syndrome\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">shouldn\u2019t be given<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to children younger than 6 months unless directed by a doctor.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>RELATED: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/children-pain-relievers-fever-reducers\/\"><b>What\u2019s the best pain reliever or fever reducer for kids?<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re unsure about what type of cold medication you need, it\u2019s always best to talk with your doctor. In most cases, a doctor will probably recommend over-the-counter cold medicine, and in rare cases, they may recommend stronger prescription drugs. Many people will ask their doctor for antibiotics, but colds are viral and won\u2019t respond to antibiotics.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-cold-medicine\">What is the best cold medicine to use?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unlike the flu medicine, Tamiflu (oseltamivir), there is no antiviral medication available for the common cold. The best cold medicine to use will vary depending on the symptoms someone has. For example, someone with a cold and cough may need to take a cough suppressant, whereas someone with a cold and stuffy nose might need to take a decongestant. Taking a decongestant when you don\u2019t have a stuffy nose probably isn\u2019t going to help you if you\u2019re searching for relief from a sore throat.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finding the best cold medicine depends on which cold symptoms you want the most relief from\u2014find a medication that treats those symptoms. Some treatments even provide multi-symptom relief and would say so on the label.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re still unsure about which cold medicine to choose, you can always ask your healthcare provider, including your pharmacist, for advice. It\u2019s also a good idea to ask your doctor or pharmacist if taking cold medicine will interfere with your prescription medications, as drug-drug interactions can cause unwanted side effects.<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\"singlecare-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th><span class=\"title\">Best cold medicines<\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"header-row\">\n<td><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Type of drug<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Symptoms treatment<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SingleCare savings<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chlor-Trimeton (chlorpheniramine maleate)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antihistamine<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alleviates sneezes, runny noses, itchy and watery eyes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/chlor-trimeton\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chlor-Trimeton coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tavist (clemastine fumarate)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antihistamine<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alleviates sneezes, runny noses, itchy and watery eyes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/clemastine-fumarate\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clemastine coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Delsym (dextromethorphan)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cough suppressant<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reduces the urge to cough<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/delsym\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Delsym coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sudafed (pseudoephedrine)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decongestant<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Relieves congestion and a stuffy nose; makes it easier to breathe<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/sudafed-sinus-congestion-24hr\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sudafed coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Afrin (oxymetazoline)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decongestant<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Relieves congestion and a stuffy nose; makes it easier to breathe<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/afrin-12-hour\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Afrin coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mucinex D (pseudoephedrine- guaifenesin)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decongestant &#8211; expectorant<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Relieves congestion and a stuffy nose; alleviates chest congestion<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/mucinex\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mucinex D coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mucinex (guaifenesin)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expectorant<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alleviates chest congestion; makes it easier to cough up mucus<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/mucinex\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mucinex coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Robafen (guaifenesin)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expectorant<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alleviates chest congestion; makes it easier to cough up mucus<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/robafen-mucus-chest-congestion\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Robafen coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Advil (ibuprofen)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pain reliever<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Treats body aches, headaches, and fevers<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/advil\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Advil coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tylenol (acetaminophen)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pain reliever<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Treats body aches, headaches, and fevers<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/Tylenol\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tylenol coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aleve (naproxen)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pain reliever<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Treats body aches, headaches, and fevers<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/aleve\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aleve coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zinc<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supplement<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reduces duration of a cold<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/zinc\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zinc coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Echinacea<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supplement<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reduces duration of a cold and may prevent contracting the common cold<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/echinacea\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Echinacea coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"rid-cold-fast\">How do you get rid of a cold fast?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Generally, once infected with the common cold you simply must allow it to run its course. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/how-long-does-a-cold-last\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The average cold lasts<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> anywhere from several days to several weeks. Even though you won\u2019t beat a cold in 24 hours, with proper medicine and home remedies, you should be able to get symptom relief quickly which may help you feel like yourself in just a few days. Here are some of the best cold remedies:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Get plenty of rest:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Staying well-rested while you\u2019re sick with a cold will help your body heal faster by giving your immune system a break. Working overtime, staying busy, and exercising with a cold can put unwanted stress on your immune system.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Stay hydrated:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Drinking water, while you have a cold will help keep your nose and throat moist, reducing how much you cough and loosen up mucus that causes congestion.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Use a humidifier: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Running a humidifier in your room at night will help relieve nasal congestion and soothe the nose and throat. This is especially helpful for reducing coughing at night.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Try over-the-counter medications: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using an over-the-counter medication such as those listed above can help treat specific symptoms you might be experiencing from a cold.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Supplement with zinc and echinacea:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Taking <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6457799\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">zinc<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> at the first signs of a cold may help shorten the duration of symptoms. Not only does zinc support immune function, but it also has an antiviral effect. Echinacea may <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7395221\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">reduce the duration<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and severity of acute respiratory viral illnesses like the common cold, and it may also cut the chances of catching a cold<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Like zinc, echinacea is best taken at the first signs of illness and can be purchased from health food stores and some grocery stores.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Choose healthy foods to eat:<\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/what-to-eat-when-you-have-the-flu\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eating certain foods while you\u2019re sick<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can lower your immune system. Refined sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods can keep your body from fighting off a cold properly. Fresh fruits rich in vitamin C and vegetables will help you heal faster.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\"><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Staying at home while you\u2019re treating your cold is always a good idea if you\u2019re able to do so. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/business\/stay-home-when-sick.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CDC<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) recommends staying home if you have a cold to help prevent spreading it to others. Keeping children out of school or daycare if they have a cold is also a good idea to help keep others from getting sick.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"cold-natural-remedies\">Natural remedies for colds<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While there is no silver bullet, some remedies exist in addition to the above to help manage symptoms of a cold and possibly prevent further complications, like secondary bacterial infections. The following are examples of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/how-to-treat-a-cold\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">natural remedies<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> you can try:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gargling with salt water can help soothe a sore and scratchy throat\u2013just mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hard candies or throat lozenges are a good alternative<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drinking warm fluids can help thin mucus in the throat and will help you stay hydrated\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chicken noodle soup is another great way to make sure you\u2019re taking in lots of fluids, and hydration may prevent complications like sinus infections<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/32817011\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Honey<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can help soothe sore throats, so consider adding a spoonful to your warm tea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like zinc, elderberry supplementation may reduce the duration and severity of symptoms<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"cold-medicine-symptoms\">Best cold medicine for specific symptoms<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u200b\u200b\u200b\u200bWhen choosing the best cold medicine for adults, you will want to consider the specific symptoms you wish to treat. The best over-the-counter cold medicine will vary depending on the type of cold and specific symptoms that you are presenting. <\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best cold medicine for sore throat<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A sore throat can be uncomfortable and even prevent you from consuming the nutrient-rich foods that will help with your recovery. Local anesthetics, like a chloraseptic spray or throat lozenges, can help with this discomfort. A sore throat may also be caused by postnasal drip, and using an OTC antihistamine can provide symptom relief, as well. If your sore throat persists, you might want to be checked for <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/strep-throat-vs-sore-throat\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">strep throat.<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best cold medicine for headache<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Headaches occur frequently with the common cold. Often, headaches happen secondarily to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s00405-019-05461-1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">swelling in the nasal passages<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and accumulation of mucus, and may result in what is referred to as a sinus headache-causing pressure and pain in the forehead, behind the eyes, and worsens with bending over or lying down. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/nsaids\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> like ibuprofen will provide the best pain relief as they reduce inflammation. Other medications, like expectorants and decongestants, can complement the NSAID to help drain the mucus and decrease the pressure.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best cold medicine for coughing<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Viruses like those which cause the common cold are a leading cause of either wet coughs, (also known as productive coughs) as well as dry coughs (non-productive coughs). A wet cough is the body\u2019s way of clearing mucus from airways and is best treated with an expectorant like guaifenesin. Dry, hacking coughs are important to prevent a sore throat and assist you in getting that much-needed rest to maximize your recovery. Cough suppressants will be your go-to class of medications for this type of cough, and a cough syrup like Delsym (dextromethorphan) is the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/health.usnews.com\/drugs\/rankings\/top-rec-cough-suppressants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">highest pharmacist-recommended brand. <\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best cold medicine for runny nose<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antihistamines are the best medications for a runny nose since they tend to have drying properties. First-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, come with usually unwanted side effects like drowsiness. Diphenhydramine should also be used with caution in elderly patients since it can result in confusion and may increase the risk of events like falls. Later-generation antihistamines, including chlorpheniramine, are also very effective in drying up those runny noses but may not cause as many of those unwanted side effects.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best cold medicine for fever<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antipyretics refer to a class of medications that reduce fever. Examples of antipyretics include acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Motrin), which are available over-the-counter. You should always read the label carefully for proper dosage, and if you\u2019re taking other combination cold medication products make sure you are not exceeding the maximum daily dose of either acetaminophen or ibuprofen.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best cold medicine for stuffy nose<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decongestants are very effective in managing stuffy noses and sinus pressure but should be used with caution in many scenarios. Decongestants come as nasal sprays and pills that can be taken orally. Afrin (oxymetazoline) is a nasal spray that can be instilled into each nostril up to twice daily. However, it should not be used for more than 3 consecutive\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">days since it can cause a phenomenon known as rebound congestion \u2013 resulting in a stuffy nose that is worse than how you started. Pseudoephedrine is a very effective oral decongestant but can cause insomnia, so the time of day it is taken should be taken cautiously. Due to its ability to relax blood vessels beyond the nasal passages, it should be used only at the discretion of a healthcare provider by pregnant women. Pseudoephedrine can also cause a rapid heart rate which might increase blood pressure and is recommended to be avoided in those with chronic health conditions like a diagnosis of high blood pressure (HBP), also known as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/blood-pressure-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hypertension. <\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best cold medicine for body aches<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Analgesics refer to medications that relieve different types of pain. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are also examples of analgesics, so for those suffering from both a fever and body aches many will experience relief from both symptoms with a single agent. These are common ingredients in combination cold medication products, so always be sure to read the labels of the medications you are taking. These medications may need to be avoided with certain health conditions, so you can always discuss with an expert if these are your best options.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best cold medicine for children<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cold medicines for children can get tricky. Children should not be given medications that are packaged and made for adults, and parents need to be aware that OTC products may contain multiple ingredients. It is very important to pay attention to the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/drugs\/special-features\/sample-drug-facts-label\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">drug label<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0and discuss any questions with healthcare professionals since the risk of giving children more than the recommended dose, giving medication too often, and giving more than one product containing the same medication are common mistakes made. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends against using <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.choosingwisely.org\/clinician-lists\/american-academy-pediatrics-cough-and-cold-medicines-for-children-under-four\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cough and cold medications<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in young children. It is also important to avoid any aspirin-containing medications in children, especially those with viral illnesses, given the risk of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/reyes-syndrome\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reye&#8217;s syndrome<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Medications containing codeine and its derivatives, while effective in treating cough, should be avoided in those less than 18 years of age.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Toddlers<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After three infants died from high levels of pseudoephedrine in their systems, in 2008 the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommended that over-the-counter cough and cold medications should not be used in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/drugs\/special-features\/use-caution-when-giving-cough-and-cold-products-kids\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">children under the age of 2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> due to the potential for serious and life-threatening side effects. Drug manufacturers have since relabeled products with warnings not to be given to children younger than 4 years old in alignment with recommendations from the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3461939\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA).<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Medications for toddlers with colds should be discussed with your pediatrician. Medication use is likely limited to symptom control with NSAIDs and acetaminophen.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Infants<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Available medications for infants with colds are even more limited than for toddlers. While acetaminophen can be used for fever control and may help with some other irritating symptoms like headache, NSAIDs like ibuprofen should be avoided in infants less than 6 months due to the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6023220\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">risk of damage to kidneys<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">; in infants greater than 6 months, use should only occur after discussion with your pediatrician. As with toddlers, cough and cold medications should be avoided in compliance with the AAP and the FDA.\u00a0 More natural approaches to symptom control, like nasal saline drops followed by suctioning to clear congested passages and the use of a cool-mist humidifier to loosen mucus, are safe alternatives given these medication limitations.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"when-to-see-doctor\">When to see a doctor for cold symptoms?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even though most colds go away on their own with a little self-care, some colds can become more severe and require <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/healthcare.utah.edu\/the-scope\/shows.php?shows=0_bffpolt6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">medical attention<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If you have a cold and have any of the following symptoms, you should consider calling your doctor to schedule an appointment:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shortness of breath<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chest pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Difficulty breathing<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wheezing<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High fever<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fever lasting longer than five days<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Severe sinus pain<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These symptoms could be signs of a more serious medical condition like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/pneumonia-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">pneumonia<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/sinus-infection-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sinus infection<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Your healthcare provider will do a physical examination and ask about your medical history to determine what might be causing your symptoms. After your exam, he or she will be able to determine the best treatment option for you.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Types of cold medicine | Best cold medicines | How to get rid of a cold fast | Natural remedies | Symptom-specific cold medicines | When to see a doctor The common cold is a viral infection that affects the nose and throat. The bad news is that it takes some time to get over [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":16018,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4589],"tags":[11169,19027],"coauthors":[8861],"class_list":["post-16066","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drug-info","tag-cold-flu","tag-home-remedies","wpautop"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.8 (Yoast SEO v27.8) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Find the best cold medicine based on your symptoms | SingleCare<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What is the best cold medicine to use? It depends on your symptoms and your age. 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