Millions of Americans catch a cold every year. The majority get two to three colds per year. The common Cold is typically one of 200 types of rhinoviruses. Because colds are caused by a virus, there is no cure.

OTC medications, however, can be used to ease symptoms and decrease the impact that the Cold has on your daily life. Because most cold medications address more than one symptom, it is important to identify your most severe symptoms so that you can make the right choice.

Best Cold Medicines

Decongestants

These over-the-counter decongestants reduce stuffy sinuses by shrinking blood vessels that block up the nose. Make sure to choose a product that contains pseudoephedrine, such as Sudafed. Because pseudoephedrine can be used to make methamphetamine, you will need to ask at the pharmacy counter for it. Although the drug is safe and effective for most people, it can cause serious side effects in people who have high blood pressure.

Ibuprofen

Inflammation can trigger aches and fevers. Inflammation can be reduced and pain relieved by treating it. Ibuprofen is a medication that can ease aches and fevers. Ibuprofen, also known as Advil, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Although it is not an NSAID pain reliever, Tylenol (acetaminophen) can be used to ease aches and fevers.

Dextromethorphan

Dextromethorphan is a medicine that can help you stop coughing. Dextromethorphan works by controlling your brain's message to your body that you have to cough. While it may reduce the symptoms of your sore throat and help with healing, it does nothing to treat the actual cause. Dextromethorphan medications may also contain a component called guaifenesin. This ingredient, an expectorant, thins out mucus to help your cough be productive.

Expectorants

Mucinex is an expectorant that helps to drain the bad mucus from your throat. It also helps you get rid of it. While these products may help, the best expectorant might be right next to your kitchen sink. Dering-Anderson states that you only need to drink more water. You can also try lemonade or tea if the water is too bland for you. You can also heat the water in your shower and then let it cool down.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines may temporarily relieve symptoms such as a dry nose, itchy throat, and runny eyes. Claritin and Zyrtec are common brands used to treat allergies. Claritin and Zyrtec will not make you sleepy. But Benadryl will. That can be a good sign if you need some sleep, says Dering Anderson.

Worst Cold Medicines

Ginger Tea

Experts states that no research has shown ginger or ginger-infused teas to have any effect on flu symptoms. However, sipping a cup of tea or other hot liquids may make you feel more relaxed.

Eucalyptus Oil

Many people use eucalyptus oils to relieve their congestion and pain. However, the extract can be deadly. If you inhale it and put it on your nasal passages, you risk getting chemical pneumonia. It would be best if you did not rub the extract on your chest. Put a couple of drops on the floor of your shower and turn on the hot water. This can provide some systemic relief.

Goldenseal

The plant is used in extracts for respiratory and cold problems as well as eye infections, canker sores, eye infections, and cancer. Problem? It doesn't work for these indications. Additionally, it interacts with other drugs such as digoxin (used to treat heart rhythm problems) and cyclosporine (an immune-suppressing drug used in transplant patients).

Vitamin D

It is widely considered that vitamin D can cure a common cold; some studies back it up. However, there is not enough evidence as to whether Vitamin D can properly cure a cold or not. Until there is hard evidence, vitamin D cannot be considered a viable treatment for Cold. Doctors do not suggest using Vitamin D for the treatment of Cold ever. It is good for your bones as they require vitamin D to be strong. Eating it can be healthy but doesn't cure a cold or flu.

Conclusion

This article will provide information about which products are best for you. These products can be found in the full article. Cold is a frustrating disease that everyone wants to be cured as soon as possible. These medicines are effective in curing a cold.