How is the common cold treated?

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Treatment of the Common Cold: An Overview

Symptomatic Relief for Common Cold Symptoms

Over-the-Counter Medications

The primary approach to treating the common cold focuses on alleviating symptoms rather than curing the illness. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as first-generation antihistamines, anticholinergics, and alpha agonists are effective in reducing rhinorrhea (runny nose) and sneezing, though they have minimal impact on other symptoms. Decongestants, both topical (intranasal) and oral, can relieve nasal congestion but should be used cautiously to avoid chronic nasal congestion from long-term use.

Antitussive Agents

For cough relief, dextromethorphan may be beneficial in adults, but its effectiveness in children and adolescents is not well-supported. Codeine and hydrocodone, although widely used, have not been proven effective for coughs caused by the common cold.

Analgesics and Antipyretics

Analgesics such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen are commonly used to relieve fever and body aches associated with the common cold. These medications can help improve overall comfort during the illness.

Antiviral and Immunomodulatory Treatments

Antiviral Drugs

Antiviral drugs like interferon alfa-2b are only effective if administered before the onset of symptoms, limiting their practical use in treating the common cold. Broad-spectrum antiviral drugs have shown promise in pediatric practice, providing an adequate immune response without limiting clinical possibilities.

Zinc and Vitamin C

Zinc has been found to potentially reduce the duration and intensity of cold symptoms, although a safe and effective dose has yet to be established. Prophylactic use of vitamin C may modestly reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms in both adults and children .

Herbal and Traditional Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been used for centuries to treat the common cold. Clinical trials have shown that TCM can be effective and safe, with active ingredients demonstrating antiviral, anti-inflammatory, immune-regulating, and anti-oxidative properties. Ganduqing granules, a TCM formulation, have been shown to improve symptoms, shorten the disease course, and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

Ayurveda and Jamu

Herbal ingredients from Ayurveda and Jamu, such as ginger, liquorice, turmeric, and peppermint, have been traditionally used to manage common cold symptoms. These herbs are recognized for their therapeutic properties in various international monographs and guidelines.

Natural and Complementary Therapies

Medicinal Plants

Certain medicinal plants have been found effective in treating the common cold. These include Echinacea, which can improve symptoms in adults, and Pelargonium sidoides (geranium) extract, which is beneficial for children . Prophylactic use of garlic may decrease the frequency of colds in adults.

Probiotics and Nasal Saline Irrigation

Prophylactic probiotics and nasal saline irrigation can reduce the incidence of colds, particularly in children. These methods help maintain a healthy immune system and clear nasal passages, respectively.

Conclusion

The treatment of the common cold remains largely symptomatic, with various OTC medications, antiviral drugs, and natural remedies providing relief. While there is no cure for the common cold, a combination of these treatments can help manage symptoms and improve patient comfort. Further research and high-quality clinical trials are needed to establish the efficacy and safety of many of these treatments.