Suggest Over-the-counter Medication For Cough And Cold

Posted on Sun, 8 Nov 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 8 Nov 2015 Answered on

Tue, 24 Nov 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, could you suggest me some over the counter medicines for cough and cold? My symptoms are throat pain, blocked nose and headache.

Answered by Dr. Swarnava Dattagupta (29 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Paracetamol, antibiotics and nasal decongestants

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for posting your query in healthcaremagic.com.
This is Dr. Swarnava dattagupta answering your query.

I have understood your question and would like to help you with medicines for your problem and related information about the same.
You are having a sore throat with nasal congestion and headache.
These are typical symptoms of common cold and will get better in a few days.

Many over the counter medicines are available for the above but you might need a combination of them for better action.
Firstly, you can take fexofenadine or levocetrizine for sneezing and running nose if any.
Next, nasal decongestant sprays like xylometazoline or tablets like pseudoephedrine will give your relief from blocked nose. However, dont use these for more than 3-4 days at a stretch.
For headache, paracetamol tablets will be sufficient as and when needed.
Alongwith, warm saline gargling, avoiding chilled or cold food and beverage will be effective.

Hope i have answered your question.
If you have any further questions i will be happy to help.
Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj