More than 100 viruses can cause a cold, and they're all contagious. Symptoms include runny nose, sore throat and fever. Some over-the-counter medications help shorten the duration and alleviate the symptoms, such as zinc lozenges and Tylenol. Both can produce some side effects, so consult your doctor first.
About Tylenol
Tylenol is also available generically as acetaminophen. It's a non-aspirin, fever-reducing and pain-relieving medication. It's one of the most popular over-the-counter medications, often used for headaches, menstrual cramps, arthritis, muscle aches, toothaches, cold and flu. Tylenol and other acetaminophen products don't have any anti-inflammatory properties and are not effective in reducing swelling. You should only use Tylenol exactly as directed by your doctor or the instructions printed on the product label. Some serious side effects are associated with the use of Tylenol and acetaminophen.
Tylenol Side Effects
Although most people tolerate Tylenol well in regular doses, it can cause liver damage when taken in high doses. According to eMedTV, one of the most common medication poisonings occurs with acetaminophen, so it's imperative not to take too much or take it too often. You should never drink alcohol while taking Tylenol, nor take it to relieve a hangover after drinking too much. Symptoms of an overdose include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, sweating, confusion, dark urine and yellowing of the eyes and skin. Contact your doctor immediately if you believe you've taken too much Tylenol.
About Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral that's not produced by the body but is needed for the body to function properly. Zinc is found in some foods and is sold as a dietary supplement. Zinc is also available in lozenges that can help shorten the duration of a cold. Reuters reports that when taken within 24 hours of feeling the first symptoms of a cold coming on, zinc acetate lozenges can help reduce the severity of cold symptoms and shorten their duration. Ask your doctor about taking zinc lozenges for your cold, because there are some side effects. If you experience mild nausea when taking zinc lozenges, try taking them on a full stomach.
Zinc Side Effects
Never take zinc in a nasal spray, nasal swab or nasal gel. "Science Daily" reports that zinc nasal products have been found to cause a loss of smell, which may be permanent, in many who were using them. All zinc nasal sprays were removed from the market in 2009 per a recall by the Food and Drug Administration. Because zinc is an essential nutrient, its side effects are mainly produced by taking excessive doses. Side effects of taking high doses of zinc include loss of appetite, stomach cramps, severe nausea, vomiting, headache and diarrhea.
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