Helpful Medications for Cold and Cough Season

Each year, millions of Americans get the common cold. In fact, adults have an average of 2-3 colds each year, with the most typical occurrences between September and April. 

With the back-to-school season underway and fall and winter creeping in, it’s a great time to ensure you’re stocked up at home with the medications you and your family may need if and when a cold hits your household.

While there is, unfortunately, no cure for the common cold or flu, medications can ease symptoms while it runs its course.

Navigating the many options can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re not feeling your best, so talking to your doctor or pharmacist about which top generic cold and cough medications to use before a cold or flu rears its head can ensure you have what you need when you need it.

Here are some of the top medications that may help abate unwanted symptoms and get you feeling better sooner this cold and cough season.

Liquids

Liquid medications are often recommended for those with upper respiratory issues and coughs, as the viscous texture can help coat the throat and increase moisture, providing some relief and reducing overall coughing.

Codeine-Guaifenesin Oral Solution

Codeine-Guaifenesin Oral Solution is beneficial for those experiencing a cough due to the common cold, flu, or other breathing-related illnesses. This solution contains the active ingredients Codeine Phosphate and Guaifenesin, which offer both antitussive and expectorant qualities. 

Guaifenesin serves as the expectorant, helping to thin and loosen mucus within the lungs and make it easier to cough and breathe clearly. The codeine acts as a cough suppressant by affecting the part of the brain that urges you to cough, reducing the urges overall.

While this medication is typically not used for ongoing coughs, it can provide temporary relief from chest congestions and unpleasant coughing.

Dextromethorphan HBr, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine HCl

This medication contains three active ingredients designed to loosen mucus and make coughs more productive. 

Dextromethorphan acts as a cough suppressant, affecting the signals within the brain that trigger the coughing reflex, while Guaifenesin helps to create more productive coughing by loosening phlegm. Phenylephrine is a powerful decongestant, relieving sinus pressure and congestion through the nasal passages. 

Those struggling to sleep because of the impulse to cough or due to nasal congestion can especially benefit from this medication. 

Triprolidine HCl

Another powerful antihistamine, Triprolidine Hcl can temporarily relieve symptoms of upper respiratory allergies, common cold or flu, or hay fever. These symptoms include runny nose, sneezing, and itchy nose, throat, and eyes. 

Triprolidine has been known to cause less drowsiness than other antihistamines and can have more of a drying effect as well, making it a solid option for someone struggling with watery eyes or a runny nose.

Tablets

While the liquid OTC medications listed above can have powerful relieving effects on cold and flu symptoms, medications in tablet and capsule form can also prove helpful.

Dexbrompheniramine Maleate & Phenylephrine HCl

The combination of Dexbrompheniramine Maleate and Phenylephrine Hcl offers temporary relief to cold and flu sufferers through the power of an antihistamine and a nasal decongestant in tablet form.

Dexbrompheniramine Maleate serves as an antihistamine, reducing itching in the throat, nose, or eyes as well as drying up a runny nose. Phenylephrine comes in as a decongestant to clear the nasal passages and reduce swelling.

Doxylamine Succinate & Phenylephrine HCl

These tablets offer another combination of an antihistamine and a nasal decongestant. Phenylephrine remains as the decongestant, while Doxylamine Succinate offers its antihistamine properties to dry up the eyes/nose/throat and reduce sneezing. 

Protect Yourself and Loved Ones This Cough and Cold Season

As with any over-the-counter medication, always read labels carefully and talk to a medical professional before you begin taking anything. 

Some medications may interact with other medications you’re currently taking, and others are known to cause drowsiness. Your doctor will be able to recommend the best medications for you and your family.

At Westminster Pharmaceuticals, we care deeply about the health and safety of those who use our products. With the upcoming cold and flu season, there’s nothing more important than keeping our communities well. Our aim is to help individuals and families all over by providing timely access to high-quality generic pharmaceuticals at affordable prices.

If someone in your family catches a cold or cough this season, ask your pharmacist about the generic options available to you. For more information about the products we provide and where you can find our products, reach out to the Westminster Pharmaceuticals team.

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