Note: you should always read the package insert or read the box for more information [...]]]>

So what can you do when you catch the cold or flu?  For this post we will focus with the common over-the-counter and prescription medications that can help alleviate cough and cold symptoms and/or shorten the duration of viral infections.

Note: you should always read the package insert or read the box for more information regarding dosing (based on age or weight) and caution remarks!

Cold and Flu Symptom Relief: Nasal Symptoms

Runny Nose & Sneezing

Antihistamine (1st generation) are commonly used to treat allergy symptoms such as itchy watery eyes, rash, sneezing and runny nose.  However, these medications are also common in cold and flu products because of “drying” side effect. These medications will help dry up the nasal secretions thereby stopping your leaky faucet nose.  Another beneficial side effect from these medications is the sedative effect, allowing you to get the most needed good night sleep.

The following are two common 1^st generation anti-histamines:

(1) Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and (2) Chlor-Tripolon or Chlor-Trimeton (chlorpheniramine)

You should consult with your health care provider before taking these if you have the following condition(s): glaucoma, lung conditions (asthma, emphysema, bronchitis), seizures, prostate enlargement, certain heart condition and/or on certain anti-depressant medications

Common undesirable effects include drowsiness, dry mouth and constipation

Other related products for runny nose: facial tissues

Stuffy Nose

Decongestants, which help reduce nasal congestion or stuffy nose, are available in oral or nasal formulations.  So, which formulation is better?

Oral formulation is the choice if you (1) do not want to use nasal sprays or (2) anticipate that you will need decongestant effect for more than 5 to 7 days and (3) are aware that you are more likely to experience undesirable effects such as insomnia and nervousness.  You should consult with your health care provider before taking or using decongestants if you have heart condition, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, glaucoma, prostate enlargement, and/or on certain MAOI antidepressants. Sudafed (pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine) is taken orally every 4 to 6 hours.  There are longer acting formulations (Sudafed 12 hour or Eltor), which can be taken orally every 12 hours.

Nasal formulations are most beneficial if you use them for 5-7 days (using any longer can cause more congestion) and want to avoid or to experience fewer undesirable effects.  Oxymetazoline (Afrin) and Xylometazoline (Otrivin), nasal decongestants effect can last up to 12 hours whereas, phenylephrine (Dristan) lasts only 4 hours.

I like to recommend Sudafed 12 hour relief for oral formulation and any nasal sprays with 12-hour relief such as Afrin for nasal formulation because of its longer acting effect.

Oral: Sudafed (phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine)

Nasal: Afrin (oxymetazoline), Otrivin (xylometazoline) and Dristan (phenylephrine)

Other methods of relieving stuffy nose: (1) humidifier, (2) Vicks Vaporub (3) Vicks inhaler (4) or non-medicated Breath-right strips (safe for children, pregnant or breastfeeding female)

Related Posts:
Recommended medications to relieve wet or dry cough
Recommended medications to relieve fever, headaches, aches and pain
Recommended medications to relieve sore throat
Prescription medications to treat influenza symptoms