When managing mild COVID-19 symptoms at home, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can offer a practical way to manage discomfort and support recovery, as the illness often presents similarly to the common cold or flu. These standard cold and flu preparations help alleviate burdensome effects of the infection. Understanding which medications are appropriate, how to use them safely, and when to seek professional help is important for safe self-treatment.
Understanding Which Symptoms to Treat
Cold and flu medications are designed to provide relief from specific symptoms, not to target the SARS-CoV-2 virus itself. The purpose of these treatments is purely supportive, making the patient feel more comfortable while the body’s immune system clears the virus. This symptomatic approach focuses on alleviating conditions like fever, muscle aches, headache, sore throat, cough, and nasal congestion. It is important to only treat the symptoms that are currently present, rather than taking medication preemptively. Choosing single-ingredient formulas that address only the immediate discomfort helps to avoid unnecessary drug exposure and potential side effects.
Generally Safe Over-the-Counter Options
The most common OTC options for managing mild COVID-19 symptoms focus primarily on pain and fever management. Acetaminophen, often referred to as paracetamol, is widely recommended for reducing fever, body aches, and headaches. Experts often prefer this medication because it lowers temperature and pain without the potential for gastrointestinal or blood pressure effects associated with other pain relievers.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, are also effective for reducing fever and inflammation. While early concerns about NSAIDs worsening COVID-19 outcomes have largely been dismissed, people with a history of kidney disease, stomach ulcers, or certain heart conditions should exercise caution. When choosing acetaminophen or an NSAID, select one option for fever and pain relief and carefully follow the dosing instructions to prevent accidental overdose.
For managing coughs, two primary active ingredients are used: dextromethorphan and guaifenesin. Dextromethorphan acts as a cough suppressant, quieting a persistent or dry cough that interferes with sleep. Guaifenesin is an expectorant, which thins and loosens mucus, making wet or productive coughs more effective at clearing the airways. Non-sedating antihistamines can also help dry up a runny nose and reduce sneezing, offering relief from upper respiratory symptoms.
Key Ingredients Requiring Caution
Certain common ingredients in cold remedies require closer scrutiny, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications. Oral decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, work by narrowing blood vessels to reduce nasal swelling and congestion. This action can also lead to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. People with pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, or glaucoma should avoid these decongestants unless advised by a healthcare professional.
Caution is warranted when selecting multi-symptom cold and flu products, which often combine several active ingredients. The danger lies in accidentally duplicating a drug, such as taking a multi-symptom formula containing acetaminophen and then taking an extra dose of plain acetaminophen. This unintentional stacking can quickly exceed daily recommended limits, leading to potential organ damage, particularly liver toxicity. Nighttime cold formulas frequently include older, sedating antihistamines designed to promote sleep, which can cause excessive drowsiness or confusion, especially in older adults. These should be avoided if a person needs to operate machinery or remain alert.
Recognizing When to Call a Doctor
While self-treatment is appropriate for mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms, individuals must remain watchful for signs that the illness is becoming more severe. A worsening cough, increasing shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing are urgent signs requiring immediate medical consultation. Other serious warning signs include persistent pain or pressure felt in the chest or abdomen, which may signal a more serious complication. Neurological changes, such as new confusion, inability to wake up, or extreme drowsiness, also necessitate emergency care. Changes in skin color, such as pale, gray, or blue-tinged lips or skin, indicate poor oxygen circulation and require immediate attention.
If a person is unable to keep fluids down and shows signs of dehydration, or if symptoms do not begin to improve after several days, they should contact a healthcare provider for advice.