Colds can cause congestion, cough, runny nose, aches and pains and other symptoms. Several types of cold medicines are available to relieve these symptoms and allow cold sufferers to continue performing their normal activities. It is important to follow all package instructions when using any of these cold medicines. Failure to do so can lead to serious, or even life-threatening, side effects.
Nasal Decongestants
Nasal decongestants treat stuffy noses. Congestion of the nasal passages is caused by the swelling of blood vessels. Decongestants narrow these blood vessels to relieve the stuffy feeling. These drugs are associated with increases in blood pressure, nervousness, dizziness, insomnia and heart palpitations. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, decongestants should be avoided by people who take insulin, diet pills, high blood pressure drugs, asthma medications, MAO inhibitors and seizure medications. Pseudoephedrine, xylometazoline, phenylephrine and oxymetazoline are all nasal decongestants.
Cough Suppressants
Cough suppressants, also known as antitussives, are used to block the reflex that causes coughing. Dextromethorphan is a common cough suppressant used to treat children and adults. This drug should not be used by anyone who has taken an MAO inhibitor, selegiline, rasagiline or tranylcypromine within a two-week period. It should not be combined with other cold medicines unless recommended by a medical professional. Side effects of cough suppressants include upset stomach, confusion, dizziness, nervousness and anxiety. Overdose can lead to shallow breathing, hallucinations and slowed respiration.
Antihistamines
Histamine is a chemical that can cause cold symptoms like runny nose, sneezing and congestion. Antihistamines block the release of this chemical, which prevents or eases these symptoms. First-generation antihistamines are very effective, but they are known to cause drowsiness. This sedative effect can last until the next day, even when the drug is used before bed. Examples of first-generation antihistamines include diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine and brompheniramine. Second-generation antihistamines are equally as effective as first-generation antihistamines, but do not cause dry mouth and drowsiness as often. Loratadine, fexofenadine and ceterizine are examples of second-generation antihistamines.
Expectorants
Expectorants thin mucus and make it easier to cough up and out of the body. The University of Michigan Health System indicates that guaifenesin is the expectorant used most often This is an over-the-counter drug that is available in syrup, tablet, liquid and capsule forms. Expectorants usually have no side effects, but should be used with caution in people who have kidney disease, diabetes and other chronic conditions. Allergic reaction is rare, but can occur in people who are allergic to any of the ingredients of an expectorant. This includes allergies to the inactive ingredients in brand name preparations.
Pain Relievers
The common cold can cause aches and pains that make it difficult to perform normal activities. Fever can also occur as a result of the common cold. Pain relievers can be used to relieve aches and reduce fever. Acetaminophen can be used safely in children, and also works to relieve pain and reduce fever in adults. Aspirin is also used as a pain reliever in fever reducer, but should not be used in children and teenagers. This is because aspirin, and other products that contain salicylate, have been linked to Reye's syndrome. This is a very serious condition that affects the liver, brain and other body organs.
