A pharmacist offers advice on over-the-counter cold remedies:
“Using over-the-counter cold remedies improperly can decrease the effectiveness of the product and spell trouble for a person’s overall health. When cold symptoms appear, cold remedies can help you tough out the illness—but only when used properly.”
Anna Garrett
Doctor of Pharmacy and health professional for more than a decade
Before reaching for a cold remedy, Dr. Garrett says consumers should
consider the following:
Current and pre-existing medical conditions–Consult with a physician if you have symptoms in addition to those of a common cold or other medical conditions or if you are taking other medications—either over-the-counter or prescription. Side effects can be serious.
What you have, what you need–Look for a product that targets only the symptoms you have. Products that contain several medications are convenient but may contain drugs you don’t need.
Reading is fundamental–Don’t assume that, because you have used “similar” medications before, you know how the medication should be administered. Consult your health care professional if you have any questions.
More is not better–Taking double the recommended dose, or taking the remedy more frequently than instructed, will not make you feel twice as good. Take the medication only as directed.
Be alert to possible side effects–For example, some antihistamines can cause drowsiness and should be avoided when operating motor vehicles or machinery. Decongestants may cause agitation or increases in blood pressure.
Count the days-Do not use cold remedies beyond the recommended duration to avoid creating other problems. If a cold persists more than two weeks, seek medical attention.
Will it work?–Most traditional over-the-counter remedies just relieve symptoms, rather than preventing, curing or even shortening the duration of the illness. Products that contain zinc gluconate glycine, such as COLD-EEZE®, have been shown to reduce the duration of a cold by almost half in clinical studies.
