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Analgesics relieve muscle aches and pains and reduce fever. They can be useful, especially acetaminophen (Panadol, Tylenol), ASA (Aspirin) and ibuprofen (Advil, Medipren, Motrin IB). Warning: you should not give aspirin to children and teenagers who have flu or chickenpox because these infections can cause Reye’s syndrome. It is a rare disease which can be fatal. Antihistamines block histamine, a substance produced in response to allergies and causes a runny nose and sneezing. They are probably not useful against the cold unless you have allergies. Examples: chlorpheniramine, diphenhydramine, pheniramine, triprolidine. Warning: may cause drowsiness. Antitussives tell your brain to stop coughing. Useful for relieving dry coughs. Do not take cough medicine if your cough produces mucus. Example: dextromethorphan. Warning: may cause drowsiness, best used at night.

Expectorants help thin mucus to be coughed up more easily. Doctors disagree over their effectiveness. Example: guaifenesin. Drink plenty of fluids is one of the best ways to thin mucus. The nasal spray decongestants reduce nasal congestion. Useful for a temporary period. Examples: ephedrine, phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine. Caution: Do not use more than eight hours and for more than 3 days away. Prolonged use can worsen symptoms when you stop (rebound). Oral decongestants also decrease nasal congestion. One of the most effective remedies against the cold. Examples: ephedrine, phenylephrine, phenylpropanolamine, pseudoephedrine.