Raysa,

To reduce fever and pain, analgesics such as Acetaminophen is generally preferred.

Ibuprofen or naproxen is also commonly used. Aspirin should be avoided due to its risk of

developing Reye's syndrome. (Reye's syndrome is a condition that affects all body organs and is

most harmful to the brain and liver.) Note on acetaminophen: Reading all cold medicine package

labels is important. The patient must not take more than one drug that contains acetaminophen.

Taking too much acetaminophen can damage the liver. Acetaminophen doses should not exceed

four grams per day (Le et al., 2020). Individuals with liver damage or liver problems should not

exceed two grams of acetaminophen per day. To relieve a stuffy, clogged nose decongestants can

be prescribed to the patient such as pseudoephedrine. However, insomnia, nervousness and

irritability can occur when taking these drugs (Jaume et al., 2020). Those who are pregnant or

have uncontrolled high blood pressure should avoid pseudoephedrine products. Often

decongestants are combined with other drugs (especially antihistamines) in OTC medicines.

Great post.

References

Jaume, F., Valls-Mateus, M., & Mullol, J. (2020). Common Cold and Acute Rhinosinusitis: Up-

to-Date Management in 2020. Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, 20, 1-10.

Le, T. Q., Le, T. M. N., Vo, T. H. P., Truong, V. T., Phan, T. H. D., & Tran, Q. T. (2020).

Effectiveness of educational interventions on knowledge and counseling regarding

common cold management: The case of community pharmacists in Hue, Vietnam. J Appl

Pharm Sci, 10(5), 119-126.