by Marie Bywater

Created on: September 01, 2010

With autumn and winter fast approaching there will be a rise in the number of colds and influenza.  There are a number of medicines used to help treat colds and flus; the type of medicine required depends on your symptoms.  The majority of these medicines are available over the counter with no prescription needed. The best over the counter cold medicines for a variety of cold and flu related symptoms are discussed below.

Best over the counter medicines for congestion

If you have a blocked nose and are having trouble breathing then you may be experiencing congestion, which is a common symptom of colds. Failure to treat congestion can lead to headaches. Probably the best decongestant to help cure your blocked nose and remove congestion associated headaches is Sudafed.  Sudafed is available over the counter in most drug stores as well as supermarket aisles.  This cold medicine is reasonably priced with one dose averaging around 25 cents. Adults should take 2 Sudafed tablets every four-six hours. However it is important to check the contraindications of Sudafed as it is not suitable for those with heart disease or history of high blood pressure. Sudafed may need to be taken in combination with an antibiotic if an infection is suspected.

Best over the counter cold medicines for coughs

If your cold is accompanied by a cough you will require a cough bottle. The type of cough bottle you will require will depend on the nature of your cough.  If your cough is chesty and your lungs are congested you will need an expectorant bottle like Mucinex, which is available over the counter. If you are having problems suppressing your cough you will need a cough bottle called Delsym.  Any coughs which persist several days after commencing a cough bottle need to be evaluated by a doctor.

Best over the counter medicines for a temperature

If you are running a high temperature you may need an antibiotic to kill the infection.  Antibiotics require a prescription and should only be taken if approved by a doctor. Fortunately there are some over the counter cold medicines to help treat a fever and any aches and pains.  The most widely used painkiller in the US is Tylenol, also known as paracetamol in the UK.  As with most medicines Tylenol cannot be used in some individuals including those with liver disease. Ibuprofen is another effective over the counter cold medicine used to treat high temperature and sore muscles. However this medicine cannot be used in asthmatics.

Herbal cold medicines

There are many herbal remedies available to fight the symptoms of colds and influenza. These are generally available in health shops and do not require a prescription.  However it is very important to discuss the use of such remedies with your doctor as they may interact with other prescription medication you use.

There are many available over the counter cold medicines to suit a range of symptoms commonly present in those with colds and flus. It is recommended that you take the necessary cold medicines for the symptoms you are experiencing.

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