OvervthevCounter Medications for Cold and Cough NR 566 Assignment

11 August 2024

Over-the-Counter Medications for Cold and Cough

1. Antihistamines

  • Active Ingredient: Diphenhydramine
  • Uses:
    • Relief from runny nose
    • Alleviates itchy or watery eyes
  • Special Considerations:
    • Has sedative and anticholinergic effects that can cause drowsiness.
    • Only doses that cause significant sedation can suppress a cough.
    • Caution: Antihistamines should not be the first line of treatment for a common cold as they may complicate the condition and increase symptoms.

2. Decongestants

  • Active Ingredient: Glucocorticoid
  • Uses:
    • Relief of nasal congestion due to the common cold
  • Additional Notes:
    • Helpful in reducing swelling in nasal passages and making breathing easier.

3. Cough Suppressants (Antitussives)

  • Active Ingredient: Dextromethorphan
  • Uses:
    • Inhibits the cough center in the brain, reducing the urge to cough.
    • Mechanism: Elevates the threshold for coughing, making it less frequent.
  • Indications for Use:
    • May be taken when a common cold or flu causes a cough that interrupts sleep or causes discomfort.
    • Suitable for chronic non-productive coughs.
  • Special Considerations:
    • Cough Caused by Lung Diseases: Coughing due to lung diseases such as emphysema, asthma, or COPD should not be suppressed as it is necessary for clearing the lungs of foreign material.
    • When to Suppress Cough: Suppression is appropriate when the cough is non-productive, uncomfortable, or interrupts sleep.
  • Example Medications:
    • Robitussin: Contains Dextromethorphan (OTC)
    • Benadryl: Contains Diphenhydramine (Also functions as an antihistamine)

4. Expectorants

  • Active Ingredients: Guaifenesin and Water
  • Uses:
    • Helps thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to cough up.
    • Mechanism: Reduces the viscosity of tenacious mucus or phlegm, facilitating its expulsion.

Safety and Precautions:

  • General Safety: Most OTC medications for cold and cough are safe for the general population.
  • Special Considerations:
    • Pregnancy: Some OTC medications may not be safe during pregnancy; consult a healthcare provider.
    • Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Certain decongestants may exacerbate symptoms; use with caution.

When to See a Doctor:

  • Persistent or Recurring Symptoms:
    • Cough or Stuffed Nose: If symptoms last more than two weeks or recur, consult a healthcare provider.
    • Allergic Reactions: Seek medical attention if you suspect an allergic reaction to any medication.
  • Serious Symptoms:
    • Shortness of Breath or Wheezing: Seek medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing.
    • Prolonged Sore Throat: If a sore throat persists for more than five days, seek medical advice.
    • High Fever: A fever higher than 101.5°F warrants a visit to your doctor.
    • Facial or Sinus Pain: If you experience pain in your face or sinuses, especially with other symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.

Common OTC Drugs for Cold and Cough:

  • Antihistamines: For runny nose and allergic reactions.
  • Nasal Decongestants: For relief of nasal congestion.
  • Cough Suppressants (Antitussives): For reducing the frequency of cough.
  • Expectorants: For thinning mucus and making it easier to expel.

Information Source:

  • Over-the-Counter Cough and Cold Treatments by Kelly Keller-James
  • Rosenthal, L., & Burchum, J. (2021).