The common cold affects millions of Americans every year. More than 100 types of viruses are capable of causing symptoms associated with the common cold. Although there is no cure, a number of over-the-counter products such as Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Sinus can help to manage symptoms until our immune systems can eradicate the virus.
Common Cold
Symptoms of the common cold may include fever, weakness, fatigue, nausea, cough, runny nose, headache, watery eyes, sore throat and congestion. In addition to their unpleasant symptoms, colds often result in lowered productivity in the workplace. Most cough and cold products contain multiple active ingredients that treat many of these symptoms. Unfortunately, no product contains all the drugs necessary to treat every symptom. In addition to medications, proper nutrition and rest are important components of treating the common cold.
Alka-Seltzer Formulation
Originally formulated as effervescent tablets that contain aspirin and compounds that serve as antacids, Alka-Seltzer was commonly used for heartburn, headaches and mild pain. Alka-Seltzer has added to their line of products by creating formulations that contain other ingredients for the treatment of certain symptoms associated with the common cold. In addition to effervescent tablets, these products are often formulated as softgels that can be swallowed whole.
Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold & Sinus
Although Alka-Seltzer makes many products that treat various symptoms of the common cold, Alka- Seltzer Plus Cold & Sinus is formulated to specifically to treat fever, pain and sinus congestion. Each softgel contains acetaminophen 325 mg for pain and fever and pseudoephedrine HCl 30 mg for sinus congestion. Although this product is available without a prescription, pseudoephedrine is a controlled substance, and the product can be sold only from behind the pharmacy counter.
Considerations
The typical dose of Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold & Sinus for adults is two softgels. This dose can be repeated every four hours up to a maximum of four doses per day. The dose for children ages 6 through 12 is one tablet, which can be repeated every four hours up to a maximum of four doses per day. This product is not indicated for children under 6 without the approval of a physician.
As announced on the Alka-Seltzer website, the company plans to introduce an Alka-Seltzer cold and sinus product formulated as an effervescent tablet. Patients with concerns regarding Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold & Sinus should speak to their physician.
