What Are the Different Types of Medicine for a Cold?

Though there is no cure for the common cold, there are many types of medicine for a cold. The vast majority of these medications are over the counter (OTC) and are readily available at most pharmacies. These medications ameliorate symptoms while the cold runs its course. A few medications treat many cold symptoms, while others treat only one symptom. No matter what medicine for a cold one chooses, following the medication's directions is essential for a quick recovery.

As the cold is a common illness, most cold medications are OTC. This trend is changing, though, as pseudoephedrine, a common cold medicine, has come under the spotlight for its role in the creation of the drug methamphetamine. In 2006, the United States passed laws requiring buyers of pseudoephedrine to provide proper identification at the time of sale. In the following years, 41 states have required pharmacies and other stores selling pseudoephedrine to keep the drug behind the counter until the time of sale. Other countries such as Australia and Mexico have gone further to control the misuse of pseudoephedrine, the latter making the drug outright illegal in 2007.

All medicine for a cold exists to ameliorate symptoms. A cold sufferer visiting a well-stocked pharmacy should find a large section of medications ranging from tablets, capsules and liquids. Though these medications are made by a variety of companies and come in many forms, medicine for a cold treats only four symptoms: pain, fever, runny nose and congestion.

Besides medications targeted toward colds, some general pain relievers also have the ability to reduce fever. A variety of antihistamines reduce the runny nose and itching a cold may cause. For congestion, pseudoephedrine is the most effective OTC medication. If unavailable due to local laws, other decongestants are available. In many cold relievers, these three types of drugs are combined in a single dose. Depending on one's symptoms, though, taking an all-inclusive medication may not be the best choice.

Though most OTC medications for a cold are safe, judging one's symptoms and choosing the best medication will lead to a smoother recovery. Not doing one's due diligence can have unintended consequences. For example, if an individual suffering from a cold took pseudoephedrine while not having any symptoms of congestion, he or she might experience unnecessary side effects such as insomnia or dizziness. Consulting with a pharmacist before buying OTC medication will help in selecting the best medicine for a cold.

No matter the medicine for a cold one chooses, properly following the dosing instructions is essential. Following instructions will prevent accidental overdose. Just as important, though, is the printed instructions to see one's physician if symptoms persist after five or seven days. Some colds can cause secondary infections that require antibiotics and/or steroids.