Information About Cold & Flu Medicine

Cold and flu medicine is available over-the-counter. Some products have one active ingredient to treat one symptom. Others are combination medications that can relieve several symptoms. It is important to know what type of medicine you need, based on your specific symptoms.

Fever/Aches

• Medications for the relief of fever, body aches and headaches include aspirin, acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil and Motrin.

Congestion/Sneezing

• Medications to relieve nasal congestion, runny nose and sneezing include antihistamines, such as Benadryl and Chlor-Trimeton and decongestants, such as Actifed, Coricidin, Contac and Sinutab. In addition, decongestants are available in nasal sprays, drops and mists for topical treatment.

Cough

• Cough medicines include suppressants, such as dextromethorphan (Benylin, St. Joseph) and prescription medications that include codeine; expectorants to thin the mucous from your airways (Robitussin, Mucinex); and topical medications such as camphor and menthol that are available in ointments, inhalation with steam and lozenges (Hall's, Vick's).

Sore Throat

• Medications to temporarily relief sore throat contain anesthetics such as menthol, dyclonine or benzocaine, such as Cepacol Sore Throat and Sucrets lozenges.

Zinc/Vitamin C

• According to MedicineNet, there is no conclusive evidence that vitamin C and zinc can prevent or reduce the severity of colds.

Considerations

• Check the ingredients of the medicines carefully to prevent taking too much of the same ingredient, such as acetaminophen, found in many cold and cough remedies and pain relievers.