Common Over-the-Counter Medications for Cold & Flu Relief

When cold and flu season strikes, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help manage uncomfortable symptoms like fever, congestion, cough, and sore throat. While these medications do not cure viral infections, they can provide much-needed relief. Below are some common categories of OTC cold and flu medications, specific examples, and potential side effects to keep in mind.

1. Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) – Pain and Fever Relief

• Examples: Tylenol, Panadol

• Use: Reduces fever, relieves headaches, sore throat, and body aches.

• Side Effects: Generally well-tolerated when taken at the recommended dose. Overuse or high doses can cause liver damage, especially if combined with alcohol. Rarely, allergic reactions such as rash or swelling may occur.

2. Ibuprofen – Pain and Fever Relief

• Examples: Advil, Motrin

• Use: Alleviates fever, headaches, sore throat, and muscle aches. It may be more effective than paracetamol for inflammatory pain.

• Side Effects: Can cause stomach irritation, heartburn, nausea, or ulcers with long-term use. May increase the risk of kidney damage or cardiovascular problems in certain individuals. Should be taken with food to reduce stomach upset.

3. Decongestants – Relieve Nasal Congestion

• Examples: Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), Phenylephrine (Neo-Synephrine, included in many combo products like DayQuil).

• Use: Shrinks swollen nasal passages, making it easier to breathe through the nose.

• Side Effects: May cause increased heart rate, jitteriness, insomnia, anxiety, or elevated blood pressure. People with heart disease, hypertension, or thyroid disorders should consult a doctor before use.

4. Antihistamines – Reduce Runny Nose and Sneezing

• Examples: Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton).

• Use: Helps dry up a runny nose, reduce sneezing, and improve sleep by counteracting histamine.

• Side Effects: Can cause drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, or constipation. Non-drowsy antihistamines (like loratadine) are less commonly used for colds but may be an option.

5. Cough Suppressants (Antitussives) – Reduce Coughing

• Examples: Dextromethorphan (Robitussin DM, Delsym), Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles – prescription only, but included here for awareness).

• Use: Acts on the brain’s cough center to reduce the urge to cough. Helpful for dry, hacking coughs.

• Side Effects: May cause dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, or confusion. Misuse in high doses can lead to serious side effects, including hallucinations.

6. Expectorants – Loosen Mucus

• Examples: Guaifenesin (Mucinex).

• Use: Thins and loosens mucus in the airways, making coughs more productive and helping clear chest congestion.

• Side Effects: Usually well-tolerated but may cause nausea, vomiting, headache, or dizziness. Drinking plenty of fluids can enhance its effectiveness.

Final Thoughts

OTC cold and flu medications can provide relief from bothersome symptoms, but they should always be used responsibly. Many combination products contain multiple active ingredients, so be careful not to double-dose by taking several products at once. Always read labels and consult with a healthcare professional if you have underlying health conditions, take other medications, or have concerns about side effects.

Relief is possible with the right approach—rest, hydration, and symptom management will help you recover more comfortably.

References

1. Mayo Clinic. (2023). Acetaminophen (Oral Route).

2. U.S. National Library of Medicine. MedlinePlus. (2022). Ibuprofen.

3. U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). (2022). Decongestants and Cold Medicines.

4. MedlinePlus. (2023). Diphenhydramine.

5. MedlinePlus. (2023). Chlorpheniramine.

6. MedlinePlus. (2022). Dextromethorphan.

7. MedlinePlus. (2022). Guaifenesin.

8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Common Colds: Protect Yourself and Others