The common cough suppressant dextromethorphan (DXM or DM) can be found alone in products such as Robitussin Cough Gels and CVS Health Tussin Cough Liquid Gels, or in combination with other active ingredients as in Vicks Dayquil Cough and Delsym Adult DM Cough + Chest Congestion Relief Liquid.Įxpectorants such as guaifenesin (Mucinex, Guai-Aid) work chiefly by thinning mucus so it is easier to cough up and out.Īntihistamines block histamine, a chemical the body releases that triggers runny nose and watery eyes. The best medicine for nagging cough:Ĭough suppressants, known as antitussives, inhibit the cough reflex in the brain. For example, if the label of a cold or flu medication says that it treats fevers, coughs, and runny noses but you have only a cough, choose a simple cough suppressant instead. “Choose a medication that’s going to directly address the symptom or symptoms that are bothering you rather than a cocktail that may include things you don’t need,” he says. Also important: Whenever possible, stick to single-ingredient remedies to reduce the risk of side effects, says Nate Favini, MD, an internist and medical director of the nationwide healthcare system Forward. The key to picking the right product or products to help you feel better faster is to zero in on your symptoms. It’s Best to Choose Cold and Flu Medication by Symptom The product's inactive ingredients, important information to help you avoid ingredients that may cause an allergic reaction.Note: OTC cold medication should not be used to treat children younger than 4 years because of lack of benefit and low but significant risk of serious complications, according to the September 1, 2019, issue of American Family Physician. Dosage instructions - when, how, and how often to take the product dosages can vary widely by age. This section also describes side effects that could occur and substances or activities to avoid. Specific warnings, including when the product should not be used under any circumstances and when it is appropriate to consult with a doctor or pharmacist.The product's active ingredients, including the amount in each dose.Food and Drug Administration (FDA), must appear in this order: While you’re squinting at the labels of various cold and flu medication options, pay close attention to the following information, which, per the U.S. I tell people, especially older folks, to bring your magnifying glass with you because the print is so small.” “It’s very confusing because there are so many different products,” notes Richard Streiffer, MD, former dean of the University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences in Tuscaloosa. Yet any veteran of the over-the-counter (OTC) medication aisle in the pharmacy knows that the choices are overwhelming.
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Tough decisions are the last thing you want to face when a cold or the flu hits you full force.
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