The
common cold is a viral illness that affects persons of all ages, prompting frequent use of over-the-counter and prescription medications and alternative remedies. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms (e.g.,
cough, nasal congestion,
rhinorrhea).
Dextromethorphan may be beneficial in adults with
cough, but its effectiveness has not been demonstrated in children and adolescents.
Codeine has not been shown to effectively treat
cough caused by the
common cold. Although
hydrocodone is widely used and has been shown to effectively treat
cough caused by other conditions, the
drug has not been studied in patients with colds. Topical (intranasal) and oral
nasal decongestants have been shown to relieve nasal symptoms and can be used in adolescents and adults for up to three days.
Antihistamines and combination
antihistamine/
decongestant therapies can modestly improve symptoms in adults; however, the benefits must be weighed against potential side effects. Newer nonsedating
antihistamines are ineffective against
cough. Topical
ipratropium, a prescription
anticholinergic, relieves nasal symptoms in older children and adults.
Antibiotics have not been shown to improve symptoms or shorten illness duration. Complementary and
alternative therapies (i.e., Echinacea,
vitamin C, and
zinc) are not recommended for treating
common cold symptoms; however, humidified air and fluid intake may be useful without adverse side effects.
Vitamin C prophylaxis may modestly reduce the duration and severity of the
common cold in the general population and may reduce the incidence of the illness in persons exposed to physical and environmental stresses.