Almost all cold and flu medications reduce symptoms rather than treating the illness itself, according to Dr Lindsay Broadbent. She explains that symptoms like mucus production, fever, and aches are caused by the immune system's response to the virus, not the virus itself. Bed rest and time remain the best solutions, but medications can help people push through daily tasks by inhibiting these natural processes.
Pharmacist Reshma Malde from John Bell & Croyden advises increasing fluid intake as basic advice. Paracetamol reduces fevers and acts as a painkiller, while phenylephrine is sold as a decongestant, though clinical trials show oral remedies containing it are not effective. For coughs, dry tickly coughs benefit from glycerol syrups or dextromethorphan, while chesty coughs respond to guaifenesin, which breaks up mucus.
Throat lozenges, often dismissed as glorified sweets, show a small reduction in perceived pain compared to placebo sweets. Liquid sugars moisten the throat, while menthol or eucalyptus provide a soothing effect. Anti-inflammatory lozenges reduce swelling and numb pain when swallowing.
Anti-viral nasal sprays are preventative, not curative, and only block infection through the nose. Dr Broadbent has issues with the claim of being anti-viral, as anti-virals are a specific thing. Menthol vapour rubs remain a popular choice for parents with poorly children.
