When you have a cold, the symptoms can be really hard to bear. Especially when you have a tight schedule and do not have time to visit your doctor. When this happens, over-the-counter drugs might be the right solution. But many cold medications contain just a few types of drugs and would not be suitable for you. The key is to check the list of ingredients and match the right drug to your symptoms.
Here are some ingredients that you need to know before choosing any over-the-counter drugs.
1. Paracetamol
Paracetamol is classified as a mild analgesic. It is commonly used for the relief of headaches and other minor aches and pains. It is a major ingredient in numerous cold and flu remedies. Paracetamol also be used to reduce the fever, available for any ages.
Avoid if:
You have liver problems such as hepatitis or cirrhosis. Don't take more than the recommended dose or try to use other products that contain paracetamol without consulting first.
2. Antihistamin
Not only virus, allergy could also induce you to sneeze and get cold. These are usually followed with runny nose, itching and watery eyes. For these kinds of symptoms, you need to find a product that contains Antihistamines. There are many different kinds, including diphenhydramine, brompheniramine, and loratadine. For the right product, you might need to consult with the pharmacist.
Avoid if:
You need focus to drive and to work. Drowsiness and sedation caused by some antihistamines can interfere with work, driving, and other daily activities.
3. Decongestant
If you have stuffed nose, you will need Decongestants to help liquefy your stuffy nose. There are many types, including pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine. You may have to ask the pharmacist for products with pseudoephedrine because sometimes they are not legal in some area.
Avoid if:
You have a weak heart. Some people experience fast heartbeats from these drugs. If you have high blood pressure, you have to avoid this kind of drug too.
4. Expectorant
These drugs, sometimes called mucolytics, relieve congestion by loosening mucus trapped in the lungs. Unlike cough suppressants or decongestants, these drugs thin mucus to make it easier to cough it out.
Avoid if:
You need to be productive for the entire day. Side effects from Expectorant may include headache, nausea, or vomiting.
5. Nasal Decongestant
Nasal sprays deliver decongestants such as oxymetazolin directly to the nose, which helps clear sinus congestion quickly and effectively.
Avoid if:
You have high blood pressure. Other than this, there are no side effects from this drug. But you need to be careful; overusing a nasal decongestant (more than five days straight) can lead to dependency, so use it only as directed.
Source:
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20775744,00.html
http://www.wisegeek.org/what-is-the-difference-between-a-decongestant-and-expectorant.htm