Introduction

The common cold and allergies are among the most common ailments that affect millions of people worldwide. Common colds are caused by viruses and allergies are caused by an over-reaction of the body’s immune system to a particular allergen. Both can cause similar symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, nasal congestion, and watery eyes. Fortunately, there are many medications available to help relieve these symptoms. This article will review the most common medications used to treat the common cold and allergies.

Common Cold

The common cold is caused by a virus and is highly contagious. The symptoms of the common cold usually last for a few days to a week and can include a runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, and sneezing. While there is no cure for the common cold, there are medications available to help relieve the symptoms.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are the most common medications used to treat the symptoms of the common cold. These medications work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. Antihistamines are available over-the-counter in the form of pills, liquids, and nasal sprays. Popular antihistamines include Benadryl, Claritin, and Zyrtec.

Decongestants

Decongestants are also commonly used to treat the symptoms of the common cold. Decongestants work by narrowing blood vessels and reducing congestion in the nasal passages. Decongestants are available over-the-counter in the form of pills, liquids, and nasal sprays. Popular decongestants include Sudafed, Afrin, and Neo-Synephrine.

Expectorants

Expectorants are another type of medication used to treat the symptoms of the common cold. Expectorants work by thinning the mucus in the airways and making it easier to cough up. Expectorants are available over-the-counter in the form of pills, liquids, and syrups. Popular expectorants include Robitussin, Mucinex, and Vicks.

Allergies

Allergies are caused by an over-reaction of the body’s immune system to a particular allergen. Allergies can cause symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, nasal congestion, and watery eyes. While there is no cure for allergies, there are medications available to help relieve the symptoms.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are the most common medications used to treat the symptoms of allergies. These medications work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. Antihistamines are available over-the-counter in the form of pills, liquids, and nasal sprays. Popular antihistamines include Benadryl, Claritin, and Zyrtec.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are also commonly used to treat the symptoms of allergies. Corticosteroids work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages and airways. Corticosteroids are available by prescription in the form of pills, liquids, and nasal sprays. Popular corticosteroids include Prednisone, Flonase, and Nasonex.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is another type of medication used to treat allergies. Immunotherapy works by gradually exposing the body to increasing amounts of the allergen in order to build up immunity. Immunotherapy is available by prescription in the form of injections or tablets. Popular immunotherapies include Allergy Shots and Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT).

Conclusion

The common cold and allergies are two of the most common ailments that affect millions of people worldwide. Fortunately, there are many medications available to help treat the symptoms of these ailments. This article has reviewed the most common medications used to treat the common cold and allergies. Antihistamines and decongestants are the most common medications used to treat the common cold, while antihistamines, corticosteroids, and immunotherapy are the most common medications used to treat allergies.