Read this before buying medicine from the pharmacy! Let's learn exactly about 'OTC' medicines (Over-the-Counter Medicines) for colds

It's a real pain to be home, feeling weak, with a sore throat , and a stuffy nose, isn't it? There is no cure for a cold that will make you feel better in no time. However, there are many medications available in pharmacies that can help you feel better and reduce these discomforts. Many of us take these medications without consulting a doctor. So, today we are talking about the medications that can be taken in this way.

What are these 'OTC' medicines?

Simply put, 'OTC' (Over-the-Counter) refers to medicines that you can buy at a pharmacy without a prescription from a doctor . Some of these are for just one symptom, like a stuffy nose . There are other medicines that provide relief for multiple symptoms at once.

In this article, we'll look at how to choose the right medicine for your symptoms.

What do you do for a stuffy nose and sneezing?

When you have a stuffy nose and keep sneezing, it can be very difficult to breathe. There are two types of medications that can help with this. Let's look at these separately.

What do you do for a cough?

Usually, you don't need to take medicine for a minor cough. It will go away on its own in a few days. However, if the cough is very bothersome, there are medications that can be used.

Some cough medicines work by blocking the reflex in the brain that causes coughing. Others work by thinning mucus, making it easier to cough up. In addition, over-the-counter cough drops can also help soothe your throat.

For a healthy adult, these medications rarely cause serious side effects. Some people may experience dizziness and drowsiness. Do not take these for more than a few days at a time without the advice of a doctor.

Medicines for body aches and fever

There are two main types of medications used to treat the body aches, headaches, and fever that come with a cold.

What to do for a sore throat?

For a sore throat, the aforementioned ibuprofen and acetaminophen (paracetamol) can also help. In addition, you can suck on a lozenge or use a throat spray that contains a substance that soothes the throat (e.g., benzocaine).

One medicine for multiple symptoms?

You've probably seen 'multi-symptom' medicines that are sold as a single remedy for coughs, colds, body aches, and fevers. While these may seem easy, they come with a few risks.

Therefore, it is wise to choose a medicine that only treats your symptoms.

Do we read the medicine label correctly?

When taking an OTC medication, it's very important to read the label. Pay special attention to these points:

• Ingredients: Check to see if it contains any ingredients that you already take (like the paracetamol example above). Also check if you have any allergies to any colors or flavors.
• Uses: Know exactly what symptoms this medicine is for. Only take the medicine for the symptoms you have.
• Instructions: Check how much and how often you should drink. Never drink more than the amount on the label.
• Warnings:This section explains what side effects may occur and who should not use this medicine.

Whenever you want to see a doctor

The symptoms of a common cold should subside within a few days. However, if you have any of the symptoms below, stop going to the pharmacy and see a doctor immediately.

• If you have difficulty breathing or wheezing. (If the condition is serious, go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.)
• If the cough or nasal congestion lasts for more than two weeks or recurs.
• If you have a sore throat for more than five days .
• If the fever is higher than 101.5°F (38.6°C).
• If you have pain in the sinuses on either side of your face or nose.

Also, if you have other medical conditions like glaucoma, heart disease, high blood pressure, or are taking other medications, it's safest to talk to your doctor before taking any OTC medication.