COVID-19 often presents with symptoms similar to common colds and the flu, such as fever, cough, and congestion. Over-the-counter (OTC) cold medicines can help manage these uncomfortable symptoms. However, these medications provide relief from symptoms and do not treat the underlying viral infection causing COVID-19.
What Cold Medicines Do
Over-the-counter cold medicines are designed to alleviate various symptoms rather than cure the illness itself. These medications often contain active ingredients that target specific discomforts. For instance, pain relievers and fever reducers, like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), work by blocking pain signals and influencing the body’s temperature regulation to reduce fever.
Decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, narrow swollen blood vessels in nasal passages, reducing swelling and allowing for easier breathing. Cough suppressants, like dextromethorphan, act on the brain’s cough reflex to reduce the urge to cough, particularly for dry coughs. Expectorants, such as guaifenesin, thin mucus in the airways, making it easier to clear.
Symptom Relief for COVID-19
Many common COVID-19 symptoms can be addressed with the same over-the-counter cold medicines used for other respiratory illnesses. For fever and body aches, acetaminophen and NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) are effective in reducing discomfort and lowering temperature. These medications can help people feel more comfortable while the virus runs its course.
For a sore throat, warm beverages, lozenges, or throat sprays can provide relief. Nasal congestion, a frequent COVID-19 symptom, can be eased with oral decongestants or nasal sprays, which constrict blood vessels in the nose to reduce swelling. Some antihistamines can also help by drying up mucous membranes.
Cough is another common symptom, and its treatment depends on its nature. For a dry cough, cough suppressants like dextromethorphan can help reduce the coughing reflex. If the cough is productive with mucus, expectorants such as guaifenesin can thin the secretions, making them easier to expel. While these medications provide comfort, they do not shorten COVID-19 illness or act as antiviral treatments.
When Cold Medicine Isn’t Enough
While over-the-counter cold medicines can manage mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms, they are not sufficient for severe illness. It is important to recognize warning signs that indicate a need for immediate medical attention. These include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, or an inability to wake or stay awake.
Other symptoms warranting urgent care include pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, signaling dangerously low oxygen levels. These severe manifestations of COVID-19 require professional medical intervention beyond what cold medicines can offer. Antiviral treatments, such as Paxlovid, are prescription medications specifically designed to target the virus and can reduce the severity and duration of COVID-19, especially for individuals at high risk of complications.
General Home Care for COVID-19
Beyond medication, several home care practices can support recovery from COVID-19 and help manage symptoms. Getting ample rest provides the body with the energy needed to fight the infection. This also supports a healthy immune system.
Staying well-hydrated is important, particularly when experiencing fever, which can lead to fluid loss through sweating. Drinking plenty of water, clear fluids, or electrolyte-rich beverages helps replace lost fluids and can keep the throat moist, easing discomfort.
Monitoring symptoms, such as temperature and oxygen levels (if a pulse oximeter is available), can help track the illness’s progression and determine if medical advice is needed. Eating bland, nourishing foods like broths and toast can also provide essential nutrients, even if appetite is reduced.