What can I buy for fast relief from a cold or the flu?

Over-the-counter cold and flu remedies relieve symptoms, but don’t cure the specific viruses. There's no one right way to treat a cold or the flu. However, here are some questions to ask your pharmacist to get the right over-the-counter medication for you.

1. Should I take a decongestant or an antihistamine?

This depends on your symptoms. If you have nasal or sinus congestion, then a decongestant can be helpful. If you have drainage (either a runny nose or postnasal drip or itchy watery eyes) then an antihistamine may be helpful. Over-the-counter antihistamines often make people drowsy; decongestants can make people hyper or keep them awake. Antihistamines can make secretions thick, which can be a problem for people with asthma. Keep in mind that both these types of medicines may interact with other medicines you may be taking for conditions such as heart disease, and they may worsen some conditions. Discuss with your doctor or pharmacist which cold medication may be better for you.

2. Is it safe to take a decongestant if I have high blood pressure?

Decongestants can increase blood pressure and heart rate, and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Pseudoephedrine is the primary oral decongestant available. In general, if your blood pressure is well controlled with medications, then a decongestant shouldn't be a problem as long as you monitor your blood pressure. This may not be true with certain types of blood pressure medications. Check with your doctor or pharmacist about what may be best for you.

3. How often should I use nasal spray?

Nasal decongestants work fast to open breathing passages. However, if you use them for more than three days in a row, you may suffer a 'rebound effect' and end up more congested than you were at the start. Some doctors suggest using a saline spray instead of a medicated spray. Saline spray works more slowly but has no rebound effect.

4. What's the difference in cough medicines?

An occasional cough may clear the lung of pollutants and excess phlegm. A persistent cough should be diagnosed and treated specifically. On the pharmacy shelf you'll find numerous cough medicines with various combinations of decongestants, antihistamines, analgesics/antipyretics, cough suppressants and expectorants. Ask which combination, if any, would be right for you.

5. What should I take for a temperature and aches?

A temperature may be a good thing. It helps the body fight off infection by suppressing the growth of bacteria and viruses and activating the immune system. Doctors don’t always recommend suppressing a fever, except perhaps for the very young, the very old and those with certain medical conditions such as heart disease or lung disease. However, if you are uncomfortable then it's fine to take medications. According to the NHS aspirin should never be given to children under 16 because of a link with Reye’s Syndrome - a rare but serious condition which causes liver and brain damage. Paracetamol or the numerous other medicines like ibuprofen are your best choices. Each has its own risks, so check with your doctor or pharmacist as to which may be best for you. Be careful to take the right amount! These medicines are often combined with other cough and cold and flu remedies you may also be taking so always read the label. Your pharmacist can help you make the right choice.