A quick-acting cold medicine. How to quickly cure a cold? The best medicines for flu and colds - list, characteristics, prices

Curing a cold can sometimes be downright difficult, especially during the epidemic season, when everyone around you is sick. This unpleasant pathology is accompanied by nasal congestion, the throat and head begin to hurt, the temperature rises, and performance is lost. Fortunately, citizens who do not want to get sick can choose the most suitable option from a wide pharmacy range - recently a lot of drugs for colds and flu have been produced. By successfully choosing a remedy and taking it in a timely manner, you can quickly eliminate the unpleasant manifestations of the disease. Due to their widespread use, anti-cold products are relatively inexpensive. However, for lovers of natural approaches there are many folk recipes - they are even cheaper than pharmaceutical drugs, but are completely safe.

Sore throat: first aid

The simplest and cheapest option, known to the general public and telling how to treat a cold, is to use a solution of salt and soda. This home remedy is effective when your throat just starts to hurt. Having noticed the primary symptoms, it is necessary to dilute the substance in water and rinse your mouth regularly. Calendula and eucalyptus in the form of a tincture will also bring benefits - take a glass of heated, but not too hot water for one tablespoon of the composition. The regularity of procedures is once every couple of hours until the symptom exhausts itself.

For people who prefer pharmaceutical medications, we can recommend Septefril. For a package containing a dozen capsules, pharmacies charge a little more than 20 rubles. This drug for colds and flu is an antiseptic, has a broad effect, therefore it is used for pharyngitis, stomatitis, and can provide significant assistance to patients with candidiasis. It is prescribed even for sore throat. Tablets are used up to six times per day. For maximum effect, you need to keep them in your mouth until the product dissolves. It is allowed to combine Septefril and antimicrobial drugs, as it enhances their effectiveness. True, in each specific case you should check with your doctor whether this is worth doing.

Eucalyptus for sore throat

When figuring out how to treat a cold, you should pay attention to Chlorophyllipt. This drug is made from eucalyptus, and its main active component is chlorophyll extracted from this plant. The remedy shows the most striking effect in the treatment of staphylococcal invasion. It is prescribed for the treatment of sore throat and tonsillitis. It is rare that a course of treatment for pharyngitis can be done without Chlorophyllipt.

This cold medicine for children and adults is on sale in the form of an alcohol-based solution. An alternative is a somewhat oily substance. You can buy "Chlorophyllipt" in tablet form. Any of the options works quickly, eliminating severe sore throat. If purulent plugs are detected on the tonsils, a course of treatment with this remedy helps to quickly get rid of them. The alcohol solution is suitable for regular rinsing, and the oil is designed for nasal administration by drops. The product quickly and effectively eliminates swelling.

What else should I try?

Among others, Streptocide cold tablets have proven themselves well. The product is also sold as a powder. The medicine has one serious drawback - a pronounced bitter taste. Doctors usually recommend taking it mixed with honey. However, the unpleasant taste sensations are offset by the quick effect of taking it.

Another widely used cold medicine is Miramistin. It is sold as a solution. It is more often used for sore throat caused by bacterial invasion or viral infection, but shows no worse results for laryngitis. "Miramistin" can be successfully used in the treatment of tonsillitis and pharyngitis. The drug belongs to the group of antiseptics and shows good results in infectious, bacterial, and fungal diseases. In addition to the solution used to gargle, it is available in tablets and aerosols.

I can't breathe!

Modern inexpensive cold medications will help not only overcome a sore throat, but also quickly relieve the unpleasant symptoms of nasal congestion. Most often, doctors advise trying Sanorin. It is inexpensive, has been used for a long time and has proven itself to be a reliable, effective medicinal composition with a wide spectrum of action. It is used for a runny nose, regardless of what exactly provoked the unpleasant syndrome. The product constricts blood vessels, relieves swelling and makes breathing easier. True, you can use it for no longer than a week - after that, addiction begins. Long-term use of Sanorin is especially dangerous for people with chronic rhinitis. Do not use the medicine if your blood pressure is higher than normal.

Another effective cold medicine that eliminates a runny nose is called Pinosol. It belongs to the group of combined remedies. Active ingredients are natural oils extracted from eucalyptus, mint, and pine. The product fights microbes and inhibits inflammatory processes, activates blood flow in the nasal mucosa. In some cases, the doctor may recommend using Pinosol even during pregnancy, since the drug belongs to the category of especially safe for the human body.

Alternative options

When choosing a drug for colds, you should pay attention to Naphthyzin. This medication has proven itself well as it constricts blood vessels. It has a long lasting, bright effect. Approved for use in seven-day courses, but no longer. Otherwise, there is a high probability of addiction.

Among the best cold medicines is Galazolin, made with xylometazoline. When used correctly, swelling subsides and hyperemia of the nasal mucosa can be quickly eliminated. Quite quickly the patient can breathe normally, without difficulty. The product is intended for use in a course of no more than five days. You should not contact him if tachycardia is detected or it is determined that rhinitis is of an atrophic nature.

Natural and safe

When choosing what to take for a cold to get rid of a runny nose, you should pay attention to essential oils. The most useful are those extracted from mint and eucalyptus. The product is very simple to use - just lightly lubricate the nasal passages. It is very important to choose the oil and not the infusion, which can cause a drying effect and provoke a worsening of the situation.

If you have a very severe runny nose, you can try rinsing. To do this, take a teaspoon of ordinary table salt into a large glass and add a few drops of calendula infusion. The product is used for regular washing. Before use, you should consult a doctor. The doctor will recommend the frequency of procedures and the duration of the treatment course per day.

If your temperature rises

It is better to choose which cold medicines will help with a high temperature if you have the opportunity to consult a doctor. In general, you need to bring down the fever only in a situation where the temperature rises above 38 degrees. The most common and universal option is acetylsalicylic acid, which eliminates fever and relieves pain. The product can be used up to six times a day. It is recommended to take it after a meal with plenty of water.

Cold tablets that relieve fever are on sale in abundance, and not least are drugs containing mefenamic acid. It inhibits inflammation, relieves pain and reduces fever. The medicine is recommended for fever and severe pain associated with elevated temperature.

What else should I try?

A literally universal, extremely common version of the drug for colds is paracetamol tablets. These can be found in the home medicine cabinet of any modern family. Paracetamol is a compound that effectively reduces fever, but rarely provokes side effects or allergic reactions. Allowed for use after meals up to 4 times daily.

Ibuprofen is no less common and useful. This cold medicine helps with fever and eliminates joint pain caused by it. The product relieves headaches. Quite often, Ibuprofen is prescribed as part of an integrated therapeutic approach for a disease caused by infection or inflammation.

Maintaining your strength

The newest cold medications are not only products designed to combat specific manifestations of pathology, but also effective compounds that support the strength of the immune system. There are several options on sale, but the most widely applicable is regular ascorbic acid. It is sold on its own, but you can choose a vitamin complex, since vitamin C is included in almost any such preparation. Thanks to the saturation of tissues with this compound, the body becomes stronger, immunological reactions increase efficiency, and the strength of resistance to the infectious agent increases.

Echinacea also has a positive effect on the immune system. Pharmacies offer a large selection of products based on this plant, from tablets to tinctures. You can buy herbal tea for brewing yourself. This immune stimulant is completely natural, good as a preventative during an epidemic, and helps maintain the body’s strength during the treatment of colds and flu. It is used as an element of an integrated approach in treating a patient. An alternative option with similar properties is “Immunal”.

Local use

Perhaps the most famous drug for local use since the time of the Soviet Union is “Zvezdochka”. This balm is still found in almost every home today. The product is made on a plant basis and has a combined effect. The drug is based on mint extracts, cinnamon, clove compounds, components extracted from camphor, eucalyptus. The balm is good if you need to cure colds, flu, runny nose, or cope with headaches. The use of “Golden Star” is unacceptable if there are wounds or inflammations on the skin.

Not less often, mustard plasters are installed at home. This remedy has shown its effectiveness not only for simple colds, but also as part of a course of treatment for pneumonia. Mustard powder can be used for influenza. The drug helps warm up the body tissues, increases the natural forces of fighting the disease.

The most common options: Teraflu

This antiviral drug for colds is most effective when the disease is just beginning. The medicine is available in powders and tablets. In general, doctors recommend choosing powder, since the effectiveness of this form is higher and the reaction is observed faster. You can notice a positive effect soon after the first use. Usually the sachet is diluted with an incomplete glass of hot water. To improve the taste, you can add sugar. It is allowed to use up to three servings of the medicine per day, and the duration of the therapeutic course is no more than a week. Theraflu is good as an element of adjuvant therapy. If the body does not react, you should consult a doctor to replace it with a more suitable option.

Sachets: large selection

If Theraflu did not help, it is quite possible that another antiviral drug for colds, which is no less widespread, Coldrex, will be effective. This complex remedy helps fight colds. The effectiveness, as well as the logic of the influence on the human body, is close to the composition described above. Statistical studies have shown that more than half of patients feel an improvement in their condition after the first dose. Coldrex eliminates headaches and activates the immune system. The powder is intended for dilution in hot water, one serving per 100 ml. The manufacturer recommends using no more than three sachets per day, otherwise there is a chance of a negative effect on the liver and kidneys. The duration of the therapeutic course is up to 5 days; in rare cases, at the insistence of the doctor, treatment can be extended for another two days.

Fervex has a similar effect. This drug has also been known for quite a long time and has proven itself well. Among other antiviral drugs for colds, it stands out for its wide variety of flavors. Sachets are intended for dilution in hot water and combined with sweeteners. You can use up to three servings per day, and the duration of the course coincides with the option described above - five days in the general case, in severe cases - up to 7 days. If the remedy is used to bring down a fever, you should use it for no more than three days in a row. If the temperature continues to remain high, you should urgently seek qualified medical help.

Heavy artillery

When the viral nature of the disease is identified, Kagocel is often prescribed. The product is available in tablet form and shows good results against flu and colds. A good effect can only be achieved through a course of treatment - 18 consecutive doses. For the first two days, the patient uses two tablets three times a day, 20 minutes before meals. From the third day, the dosage is halved: one tablet is taken at a time. The logic of administration remains the same: three times a day before meals for half an hour. Make sure that no more than 18 tablets are taken.

In some cases, the doctor recommends using Ergoferon. This drug is suitable for the treatment of adult patients. For the first two hours, the medicine is used with an interval of half an hour, drinking four servings in succession. Treatment is continued, using the composition every five hours. From the second day until complete recovery, Ergoferon is taken one tablet with a meal. If indicated, the doctor may recommend using a portion of this medicine daily after recovery. The course duration reaches six months. This is practiced if the disease was accompanied by pulmonary complications.

Efficient and effective

The antiviral drug Oscillococcinum has proven itself to be effective against both colds and flu. The product is quite expensive, but it works quickly and accurately. It belongs to the homeopathic family and is sold in a package of pills. The medicine is intended for oral use; you can first dissolve it in water. The therapeutic course involves the use of one tablet if the disease is mild. If the disease is relatively severe, Oscillococcinum should be used twice a day. The duration of the therapeutic course is from one to five days.

A number of doctors are convinced that such a drug (like some described above) is not only useless, but even dangerous. There is an opinion that drugs inhibit the body's defenses. This is most pronounced with prolonged systematic use. To avoid unpleasant consequences, before starting treatment you should consult a doctor and undergo an examination to determine the nature of the pathology.

Cold drops

Perhaps the most widespread remedy in this category is Aflubin. It activates the body's defenses, supports the immune system, and inhibits the virus. Adult patients are recommended to use the medicine in the amount of ten drops up to eight times daily. This is especially true if the patient suffers from a sore throat or suffers from fever. For mild forms of the disease, the manufacturer recommends using Aflubin four times daily for 5-10 days.

Another popular drops are called “Nazoferon”. They are intended for instillation into the nose. The product is used daily up to five times, one serving in each sinus. The duration of the course is from five days to twice as long. Some patients complain of dry mucous membranes during treatment. Whether it is worth using such a spray, you should first check with your doctor.

Capsules against colds and flu

The name “Avirol” has proven itself well. This remedy stimulates the immune system and strengthens the body's own strength. The effect is most pronounced in respiratory pathologies. One capsule should be used daily for two weeks. The time of administration does not depend on meals. After two weeks, use must be completely stopped to prevent addiction.

Another reliable capsule in pharmacies is sold under the name “Amizon Max”. They are effective against flu and colds. The product is quite strong and completely eliminates the manifestations of pathology in just a week. Intended for oral administration one hour before meals. Frequency of use - at least two, but no more than four times daily. The doctor must choose a specific option after assessing the severity of the disease. It is known that Amizon Max can provoke a disorder in the functioning of the intestinal tract.

How to treat a child?

Pharmaceutical companies produce specialized drugs for young patients. For example, Antiflu Kids has proven itself well.

It is intended for the treatment of six-year-old children and older patients. In rare cases, the medicine is used in the treatment of young children, but only when such practice is coordinated with the attending physician who is able to assess all the risks of the situation. The product is sold as a tasty syrup and powder. The syrup should be used, selecting the dose taking into account the patient’s body weight. The sachets are diluted in one hundred milliliters of liquid and used up to four times daily. This course of treatment lasts no more than two days, after which the frequency is halved. The general therapeutic program lasts for five days.

Another reliable option is the children's form "Antigrippin". These are tablets that hiss when they come in contact with water. Intended for the treatment of patients three years of age and older. At the age of 3-5 years, you should use half a tablet diluted in half a glass of clean water; from the age of five you can use a whole tablet. Up to four doses are allowed per day. The duration of the therapeutic course is three days on your own, up to five days under the supervision of a doctor.

Colds have long ceased to be a seasonal phenomenon and you can catch them at any time of the year. The reasons for this are: the modern rhythm of life, ecology, weakened immunity and mutation of viruses. In any case, a cold must be treated. The range of anti-cold medications is now quite extensive, but this does not mean that all of them are quite effective. Big Rating magazine brings to your attention best cold remedies – TOP-10.

Arbidol

"Arbidol" is a fast-acting medicine that relieves the symptoms of a cold or flu within 24 hours. The course of treatment should be continued for at least five days. In case of exacerbation of a viral disease, you need to take the drug for a week, one tablet per day. The drug is prescribed to patients diagnosed with acute respiratory disease and influenza. The drug is also recommended as an immune booster for patient recovery after surgery. In this case, Arbidol is taken for 2-5 days. The drug is produced in the form of capsules in a film shell.

Theraflu powder

A drug with an antiviral and antipyretic effect, which completely relieves the symptoms of a cold or flu and cures the disease within a day. Just dissolve the powder in hot boiled water and drink. For the fastest possible recovery, bed rest and compliance with medical orders are necessary. The active ingredient of the drug is paracetamol. Theraflu is contraindicated for: pregnant and lactating women, people suffering from alcoholism, diabetics and children under 12 years of age. Taking the drug for people with impaired kidney and liver function, as well as for patients with arterial hypertension, is not recommended without prior consultation with the attending physician.

Anaferon

"Anaferon" is a homeopathic antiviral remedy that strengthens the immune system. The main purpose of the drug is to help the immune system fight the virus. "Anaferon" is suitable for the treatment of both colds and flu. You need to take the drug one tablet 3-6 times a day. After the patient’s well-being improves, to prevent relapse of the disease, a gradual reduction in dosage to one tablet per day is required. Since Anaferon has no side effects or contraindications, except for individual intolerance to the drug, it can be taken even by children over 12 years of age. For the little ones, Anaferon for children is available separately.

Kagocel

A specialized and potent remedy for quickly relieving symptoms of colds and flu. At the first manifestations of the disease, you should take Kagocel three times a day, two tablets after meals. After the patient’s condition improves, the dose can be gradually reduced to one tablet three times a day. It should be remembered that the entire course of treatment should not consist of more than 18 tablets. To prevent flu and colds, you need to take Kagocel one tablet per day for one week. For children over 3 years of age, the course of treatment consists of taking one tablet twice a day for 4 days. "Kagocel" is contraindicated exclusively for people with individual intolerance to the components of the drug, pregnant women and nursing mothers. But if the first allergic reaction occurs, you must immediately stop taking the drug.

Coldrex

A very popular and very recognizable cold remedy. Coldrex copes well with the manifestations of the first symptoms of the disease: nasal congestion, headache, fever and runny nose. In the first days of illness, you should take one sachet at 4-hour intervals. After symptoms subside, use should be discontinued. If a relapse is possible, the drug can be taken further by reducing the dosage. We should not forget that long-term use of Coldrex is fraught with side effects, so overdose should be avoided and treatment should not be delayed for more than 5 days. The drug is not recommended for use by: pregnant and lactating women, diabetics, heart patients and people with liver dysfunction.

Antigrippin

"Antigrippin" is a combined antiviral drug consisting of a number of elements: paracetamol, ascorbic acid and chlorpheniramine maleate. Each of these elements is designed to affect individual symptoms of the disease, and together they help the body improve immunity and fight colds. You should take Antigrippin three times a day after meals, one blue and one red capsule, as well as powder, until you feel completely better. The maximum duration of treatment is 5 days. If during this time the patient’s condition has not improved, a doctor’s consultation is necessary. Before you start taking Antigrippin, we strongly recommend that you read the instructions for the drug, since it has a wide range of contraindications.

Fervex

The paracetamol contained in Fervex helps relieve cold and flu symptoms such as fever and headache. And finarimine is responsible for soothing the nasal mucosa and has an antihistamine effect. Fervex should be taken one sachet three times a day between meals. To avoid overdose, a 4-hour interval should be maintained between taking the drug. For elderly people and patients with liver problems, it is advisable to increase the interval of taking the powder to 8 hours. The drug can be taken in combination with other antiviral medications. If you follow the recommendations and maintain the dosage, Fervex does not cause side effects. In exceptional cases, manifestations are possible: allergic rash, nausea, urinary retention. For children under 15 years of age, the Fervex children's form is produced.

Amiksin

"Amiksin" is prescribed for viral hepatitis, hepatic infections, as well as the treatment and prevention of respiratory diseases. Since Amiksin is a potent drug, it is important to strictly follow the instructions for using this medicine. For the first two days, it is recommended to take one tablet, observing a 48-hour interval. The entire course of treatment should not exceed a dose of 6 tablets. In case of an overdose of the drug, side effects may occur. "Amiksin" is contraindicated in children under 7 years of age, as well as in pregnant women and during lactation. For children over 7 years of age, the drug can be used, but subject to strict adherence to the dosage.

Ingavirin

The drug is popular because of its excellent antiviral effect, and also because it does not dull the reaction and does not cause drowsiness in the person taking Ingavirin. The medicine is prescribed to both children and adults, therefore it has two special forms. The children's form of the drug is intended for children from the age of seven. You need to take Ingavirin one capsule per day. The maximum duration of treatment should not exceed a week. For children, the dosage of the drug and treatment period are identical to adults. "Ingavirin" is not recommended for use with other antiviral drugs and is contraindicated for pregnant women and people with individual intolerance to the components of the drug.

Grippferon

This drug helps fight flu and colds by acting directly on the immune system of the sick person. "Grippferon" is available in various pharmacological forms, which allows you to most effectively select a drug suitable for the prevention or treatment of the disease. Being an immunomodulatory, antiviral and anti-inflammatory drug, Grippferon copes well with coronavirus, rhinovirus, adenovirus, influenza and parainfluenza viruses. The drug shortens the duration of the disease and also reduces the risk of complications. Drops should be instilled 4-5 times a day. Children – 2-3 times. Before use, it is recommended to thoroughly clean the nasal cavities. The course of treatment is 5 days. The drug is absolutely harmless, therefore allergic reactions and side effects are possible only if you are individually intolerant to the components of Grippferon.

Content

A cold can strike each of us when it is completely unacceptable to get sick. When you need to be as focused and full of energy as possible, your nose suddenly starts running and your throat feels sore. They are followed by sneezing and coughing, accompanied by weakness and high fever. In this situation, urgent measures are required. A quick-acting cold remedy will get you back on your feet in time.

How to quickly cure a cold at home

The key to quick healing is to take all necessary measures at the first alarm bell. If the illness occurs for an obvious reason, due to inattention to the immune system or hypothermia, and the symptoms are not a manifestation of the influenza virus, then you can use the following home treatment tips and quick-acting cold remedies.

Take your temperature. If the mark on the scale has not reached 38 degrees, then you should not drink antipyretics for a cold.
Vitamin C. At the beginning of the disease, a large dose of ascorbic acid will effectively help the body with a cold for a speedy recovery. The best option would be an effervescent vitamin - it is absorbed faster and warms. Five oranges a day will be a natural alternative to pills or capsules and will help treat colds.
Drink a lot of water, tea, compotes, fruit drinks. They must be warm, this will help remove toxins, which is important for colds.
Get as much sleep as possible. After drinking a warm drink and crawling under the covers, wearing warm socks and clothes, get as much sleep as possible. Sweating while sleeping is an important part of recovering from a cold. It is better to observe bed rest while in hospital.
If it is not possible to maintain bed rest during illness, you have to deal with weakness, and effective work and concentration are out of the question. To avoid such a situation, you should pay attention to anti-cold medications, which are effective not only against symptoms, but also against general weakness. For example, the modern anti-cold drug Influnet helps to get rid of the symptoms of ARVI, but also, due to the succinic acid included in its composition, helps to cope with lethargy and loss of strength.
The room should be frequently ventilated.
Stay warm. If there is no high temperature, then you can steam your feet and take a hot shower.
Take your vitamins. Such support will be useful for the body during colds. It is best if he gets it from fruits, but if this is not possible, they should be replaced with pills from the pharmacy.
Medicines to treat colds. Quick-acting cold remedies sold in the form of diluted teas and powders that should be poured into hot water are suitable. It is permissible to consume three or four of these sachets during the day, but the course should not last more than three days. Powders for colds with Paracetamol reduce fever, eliminate chills, and have an anti-inflammatory effect. Immunostimulating medications will help in treatment. Antiviral medications for colds and flu help kill the infection. If the disease drags on, switch to antibiotic injections.
Remedies for runny nose, cough and sore throat. If your palate hurts, you can choose either lollipops or mixtures, rinses and sprays. Drops will help you cope with a runny nose, among which it is better to choose not powerful vasoconstrictors, but medicines containing herbs. A sea salt solution will be useful for rinsing the nose. A cold often does not produce sputum, so regular cough suppressants will suffice. If phlegm does appear in the bronchi, you should use a means to remove it.
Fluid intake. Warm tea, compote or juice promotes sweating and recovery, while removing toxins that prevent the body from fighting a cold. Plain water will not be the best remedy, and carbonated drinks will not help your recovery. You should drink as much as you feel necessary, without overpowering yourself.
Vodka. Alcohol should be warmed up a little and rubbed all over the body. This remedy will help quickly relieve high fever.

List of the best new generation flu and cold medicines

“Theraflu”, “Coldrex”, “Fervex”, “Antigrippin”, “Grippferon”, “Anvimax”, “Influnet” (antipyretics and sore throat relievers, against influenza and ARVI)
"Acetylcysteine", "Ambroxol", "Bromhexine", "Carbocysteine" (expectorants)
“Butamirate”, “Glaucin”, “Prenoxdiazine”, “Levodropropizine” (drugs for dry cough).
Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, Aspirin (antipyretics).
Drops based on xylometazoline, naphazoline (vasoconstrictor for a runny nose).

Review of fast-acting remedies for colds on the lips

Colds that occur on the lips are often herpes - the Herpes Simplex virus, which affects 95 percent of the world's population. Once in the body, it exists unnoticed and “turns on” when the human body is weakened by hypothermia, lack of vitamins, nutrients or other diseases. There are many effective ointments to combat herpes. These products should be applied to areas of the lips affected by colds several times a day, the course should not exceed 5 days.

You should not use your fingers when applying the product due to the risk of transferring the virus to another place. Among the common names of ointments for colds in the ranking of the best are “Acyclovir”, “Gerpferon”, “Zovirax”, “Gerpevir”. The main active substance in them is acyclovir, which prevents the multiplication of the virus. Tromantadine-based ointments are available, such as Viru-Merz.

What antiviral drugs can children take?

If a child exhibits symptoms of ARVI and if for some reason a doctor is unavailable, measures should be taken to combat the disease in order to prevent complications. If, after all the simple remedies have been tried, the disease does not recede, you will have to resort to antiviral drugs, but only those that are specifically intended for children. Tamiflu, Remantadine, Relenza, Amantadine are considered acceptable.

If bronchitis occurs in infants, then Ribavirin will help, and if the child’s body is weakened or there are heart problems, Synagis will be the best choice. Tamiflu is acceptable for use by children over the age of one year, and Arbidol flu tablets can be given from three years of age. “Interferon” for solution is used at any age, as well as homeopathic drugs such as “Aflubin”, “Anaferon”, “Oscillococcinum”. To lower body temperature, Paracetamol or Nurofen and Ibuprofen syrups are suitable.

Effective folk remedies and herbs

Grind dried blackberry leaves (1 tbsp), pour boiling water over them, strain after a couple of hours. Drink 30 minutes before eating. A good cough suppressant.
Herbs (cough remedy). One tablespoon of wild strawberry leaves, raspberries, three tablespoons of blackberry leaves, dry crushed tricolor violet (1 tsp). All this needs to be mixed, use a tablespoon of the composition per glass of boiling water, let it brew covered for half an hour, strain. Reception: a glass a couple of times a day.
Potato. This vegetable will help bring down the temperature. Grate two raw potatoes and mix with a tablespoon of vinegar (apple vinegar). Use the mixture to make compresses on the forehead.
Viburnum and honey. A mild remedy for colds and runny nose. Mix one tablespoon of viburnum juice and honey, take half an hour before meals.
Nettle, sage and lemongrass. The herbal tea is good for colds and flu. Mix dry crushed nettle leaves (3 tbsp), the same amount of schisandra chinensis shoots and sage (1 tbsp). Pour a teaspoon of the composition into a glass of boiling water, strain after a couple of hours. Reception: one glass in the morning and evening. If desired, you can add honey.

What is an inexpensive and effective remedy for preventing colds?

Very often, a cold in an adult occurs as a result of a weakened immune system. Exposure to external factors, poor nutrition, and lack of vitamins can lead to a loss of effectiveness of the immune system and increase the likelihood of infections entering the body. To avoid this, interferon inducers can be used. They will ensure the production of natural defenses by the body, which will allow it to successfully resist colds. This type of drugs includes:

"Arbidol";
"Cycloferon";
"Amiksin".

At the first sign of colds and flu, you need to take Oscillococcinum as soon as possible. With timely use, the drug activates the immune system and allows you to painlessly cope with infectious and viral diseases.

Why Oscillococcinum? It's simple: it is suitable for children, it is easy to use, acts quickly and has a pleasant taste. Do you need any more reasons?

The body needs vitamin support. To prevent colds, Vetoron, Gerimax, and Aevit will help. Preparations that help cope with the effects of the external environment - adaptogens - include extracts of Schisandra, Eleutherococcus, Leuzea. Immunomodulators, such as “Bioaron S”, “Immunal” “Likopid”, will help restore the strength of the immune system and will be useful for the prevention of colds and flu.

Antiviral medications used to prevent colds will help give the body additional strength in the fight against pathogens. The best are “Grippferon”, “Viferon”, “Arbidol”, “Amiksin”. Don't forget about honey and vitamin C - they will prevent the development of a cold. Echinacea is a cheap, simple preventative. Get more rest, give up cigarettes and don’t forget to take seasonal vitamins.

Video: what to do at the first sign of a cold

Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials in the article do not encourage self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and give treatment recommendations based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.

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Fast-acting antiviral agents

Updated: 09.24.2018 16:07:07

Expert: Boris Kaganovich

*Review of the best sites according to the editors. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

When a person comes to a pharmacy and asks for something “for a cold,” an experienced pharmacist will not be taken by surprise by such a question. In any pharmacy there will always be interferon inducers, antipyretic drugs, sputum thinners and other medications that are necessary for a person with a respiratory viral infection and a cold. But even in such a situation, the pharmacy employee will definitely ask what symptoms are observed and advise you to choose a drug based on the patient’s complaints, although, by law, pharmacy employees should not provide advice, this should be done by a doctor. And here's why.

Usually the most common cold, which occurs due to hypothermia or lack of immunity, is caused by viruses that are tropic to the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract. For example, these are adenoviruses and similar reoviruses and rhinoviruses, respiratory syncytial virus. But in some cases, it may be ARVI, and the debut of influenza in an unfavorable epidemiological situation.

If the patient, even with a common cold, has been sick for several days, then the bacterial flora joins the viruses, and then in typical cases the temperature rises again, a wet cough appears, and mucopurulent or even purulent sputum begins to drain. In this case, it is already necessary to prescribe antibiotics, call a doctor, and treat the bacterial complication of the cold. In order not to lead the situation to complications, it is recommended to treat ARVI starting from the first day. What cold medications can help with this, and what products are currently produced to fight viruses, high fevers, and can be used in adults and children? This rating contains the most popular and effective means for these purposes. And the first of them will be considered etiotropic drugs, or drugs aimed at combating infectious agents.

Rating of the best cold and flu remedies

Nomination	place	product name	price
The best antiviral remedies for colds	1		1,073 RUR
	2		285 RUR
	3		380 ₽
	4		166 RUR
	5		173 RUR
The best antipyretics for colds	1		94 RUR
	2		155 RUR
	3		49 RUR
The Best Cold Symptom Relievers for Adults	1		179 RUR
	2		216
	3		372 RUR
The Best Cold Symptom Relievers for Kids	1		89 RUR
	2		149 RUR
	3		306 RUR

The best antiviral remedies for colds

Currently, there are several groups of antiviral drugs. First of all, these are vaccines, but they are not suitable for the treatment of acute diseases, but only for their prevention and prevention.

Medicines are also used to prevent the development of a viral infection, blocking specific enzymes of the pathogen, preventing its penetration into cells, or the reproduction or replication of viral particles. There are drugs on sale that stimulate the immune system and promote the production of interferons by the patient’s body, which have antiviral activity, reducing the symptoms of colds and acute respiratory viral infections. It is the last two groups of funds that are presented in the rating. And since influenza is one of the most dangerous and severe diseases, which begins very similar to ARVI, the first remedy presented in the rating will be the highly effective antiviral drug Tamiflu.

Tamiflu (Influcein, Tamides)

Tamiflu is a monodrug, that is, a product with a single, but very effective component. This is oseltamivir. Its mechanism of action is based on blocking one of the enzymes of influenza virus aggression, called neuraminidase. The task of this enzyme is to facilitate the release of newly created viral particles in the human body from affected cells. Therefore, Tamiflu can be considered a means of pathogenetic treatment, but not for any acute respiratory viral infection or cold, but only for “suspicious” flu. Indications for use as an exception will be the treatment of acute respiratory viral infection occurring during the epidemic influenza season, which is more severe than the common cold.

This is a situation when the patient immediately and clearly manifests on the first or second day not only fever and catarrhal manifestations in the nasopharynx, but at the same time there is pronounced weakness and loss of strength, there is a headache, and diffuse myalgia, or muscle pain.

The second indication for this drug is the specific prevention of influenza. If there is an outbreak of influenza at a school or in a community, then everyone else needs to use this drug to avoid illness.

Tamiflu is used regardless of food intake. The course of treatment for adults, as well as children over 12 years of age, is one tablet 2 times a day, the course of treatment is 5 days. Treatment must be started no later than the second day after the onset of typical symptoms. You should not increase the dose even in severe cases of the disease, as this will not lead to an increase in the expected effect.

For prevention, take this remedy one tablet once a day for a week. The conditions for taking it are exactly the same: no more than 2 days should pass after possible dangerous contact, otherwise the effectiveness of the drug will sharply decrease. This wonderful and very effective drug is produced by the Hoffmann la Roche company from Switzerland, and its cost will be the highest in our rating. The average price of one package of 10 capsules, just calculated for a course of administration for 5 days, is 1,170 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of Tamiflu is its high efficiency, recognized by the international clinical community, which can significantly reduce the duration and severity of the infection, and also dramatically increases the patient’s chances of not getting the flu. But such effectiveness is rarely accompanied by side effects. Most often this is nausea and one-time vomiting. They appear on the first day and then disappear without any additional changes in the use or discontinuation of the drug.

Unfortunately, in most cases, in the first two days after the onset of symptoms, people are not inclined to immediately spend more than 1000 rubles on a highly effective drug, and this can only be done by someone who is initially sure that they have the flu, or immediately, on the first day, called a doctor for house. Therefore, if there is no epidemic situation in the area, and it is not the “season,” then this drug should not be taken. To accept it there must be a reasoned decision.

Grippferon refers to immune drugs that contain a highly effective protective interferon, alfa-2b. Interferon is considered a highly effective antiviral therapy; it is produced in the human body. If endogenous interferon is not enough, then it is introduced from the outside, being a means of passive immune treatment of acute respiratory viral infections and colds.

Grippferon is indicated for various acute respiratory viral infections, influenza, and also for prevention. For example, during the epidemic season and the height of influenza and ARVI, the prophylactic use of Grippferon as a means of prevention in public places in combination with a disposable mask can reliably protect anyone from ARVI, influenza, and other “cold” diseases. It is produced in the form of a nasal spray and drops; Grippferon is used in three dosages in each nasal passage no more than 6 times a day for adults. For prophylactic purposes, this drug is prescribed one dose in each nasal passage 2 times a day.

Grippferon is produced in the form of a nasal spray by the domestic company Firn, and the average cost of one 10 ml package is 340 rubles. In addition, Grippferon is also available in the form of nasal drops, and the cost of one bottle of the same volume is 260 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of using Grippferon include great convenience, low price and no overdose. This remedy can also be used for colds and ARVI, starting from birth, with dose adjustment. The disadvantages of this drug include the recommendation not to combine it with vasoconstrictor drops, as this can cause drying of the nasal mucosa. Also, there are no large or international studies that would clearly speak about its effectiveness; all studies were conducted in Russia and on a small number of subjects.

Ingavirin is considered a single drug; it contains imidazolylethanamide pentanedioic acid. A substance with such a complex name helps to increase the production of interferon receptors, which increases the sensitivity of cells to signals that stimulate the immune response. As a result, interferon has a more complete effect, viruses are more quickly eliminated from the body, the symptoms of ARVI and colds and the duration of the disease are reduced. Taking Ingavirin reduces the risk of complications. Viruses such as influenza and parainfluenza pathogens, enteroviruses, rhinoviruses, Coxsackie viruses and their other representatives are sensitive to Ingavirin.

This drug is indicated for both the treatment and prevention of respiratory infections caused by viruses in adults and children over 13 years of age. Ingavirin should be used for treatment once, 90 mg per day, for a week. For prevention, the dosage is exactly the same, it does not change. It is produced by the domestic company Valenta, and the cost of a package of 7 capsules, designed for a course of weekly intake, is on average 500 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of Ingavirin include convenient administration, since most drugs with antiviral activity must be used several times a day, convenient packaging designed for a course of both treatment and prevention, and a mild physiological effect. It does not introduce any chemical substance into the body, but simply increases the activity of hereditary mechanisms, activates genes and increases the production of certain cellular structures - receptors. Also, Ingavirin is not metabolized in the body and does not affect chronic diseases. However, there are some contraindications to it - it is not used for ARVI in pregnant women, nursing mothers, or children under 13 years of age.

The antiviral drug Arbidol, from the point of view of pharmaceutical chemistry, is called umifenovir, and it is indicated for influenza, ARVI, as well as for symptoms of rotavirus diarrhea, and for creating immunity against influenza. The product produces, in addition to antiviral, an immunostimulating effect. Arbidol is available in capsules, tablets and powder for suspension. It is necessary to use Arbidol for the prevention of ARVI and colds - one capsule twice a week for a month, and for treatment - one capsule every 6 hours for 5 days. Arbidol is produced by the domestic company Pharmstandard, and the cost of 10 capsules of 50 mg, or 10 single doses, averages 160 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The most pronounced advantages of Arbidol are in the prevention of ARVI. It then needs to be taken only twice a week, for example on Tuesday and Thursday. For treatment, it is used, of course, much more often, but even then one package of the drug will be enough for two and a half days of treatment. And two packages will be enough for the entire course, and its cost will not exceed 320 rubles. Sufficient effectiveness and reasonable price enable this drug to participate in the rating of antiviral drugs for ARVI.

Finally, in conclusion, we will consider a drug that, at first glance, has nothing to do with the pathogens of ARVI. This is acyclovir, also known as Zovirax. Yes, this remedy acts exclusively on herpes viruses. But it very often happens that a respiratory viral infection that occurs against the background of reduced immunity leads to the activation of a herpes infection, which immediately “breaks out” on the patient’s lips. If measures are not taken, then such rashes against the background of reduced immunity can appear in the area of the external auditory canal, and cause an extremely unpleasant neurological complication - Bell's palsy, or facial nerve paresis. Therefore, herpes during a cold must be dealt with immediately after its slightest occurrence.

This is what acyclovir cream, or Zovirax, is for. After the first appearance of burning, discomfort and the appearance of blistering rashes, it is necessary to immediately, every 4 hours, or 5 times a day, apply this cream to the affected area, as well as to the surrounding intact skin. The course of treatment is at least 4 days. Zovirax cream is inexpensive, one small 5-gram tube costs about 180 rubles on average. It is produced by the English pharmaceutical company Glaxosmithkline.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of using Zovirax in local forms include their rapid action, blocking the spread of herpes infection to other areas of the skin, “spreading” of the rash in the projection of nerve fibers, as well as good tolerability. The disadvantages include the impossibility of prevention when using local forms of medicines, such as ointments and creams. But, nevertheless, antiherpes drugs should always be in the same medicine cabinet with drugs for the treatment of respiratory viral infections. After all, as practice shows, in 10-15% of cases, herpes is activated during ARVI, and you need to be prepared for this.

The best antipyretics for colds

There are some restrictions, or rather suggestions, to the use of antipyretics. Everyone knows that it is necessary to reduce the temperature only when it reaches at least 38.5 degrees. In some recommendations you can read that only a temperature of about 39 degrees and above should require treatment with antipyretic drugs, and this is correct. If a person is basically healthy and does not have chronic damage to the heart or blood vessels, does not have arterial hypertension, and does not suffer from epilepsy, then one can and should try to follow these recommendations. If the patient has diseases, increased convulsive activity, or intolerance to high temperatures, then he needs to start taking antipyretic drugs, starting with a temperature of 38 degrees, and even lower. But, even against the backdrop of an increase in fever, it is necessary to drink as much warm and vitamin-rich liquid as possible, and in some cases, use physical methods, such as rubbing. Currently, there are many effective antipyretic drugs based on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The most effective and popular ones are listed below.

The drug Ibuklin, produced by the Indian pharmaceutical company Dr. Reddis, is considered a highly effective combination of ibuprofen and paracetamol. Each of them by itself is already capable of having an antipyretic effect, and in combination they work even better. Blood antipyretic effect, this drug also helps relieve pain, for example, with diffuse muscle pain during the flu, with headaches, which often accompanies ARVI. Ibuklin should be taken 2 hours after meals, one tablet three times a day, but not more than 3 tablets. You can be treated for no more than 3 days without a doctor’s prescription, and then only after consulting a doctor. The cost of the drug Ibuklin, containing 10 tablets in one package, designed for 3 days of use, is, on average, 130 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of this product include high activity, ease of use and inexpensive price. But each of the components has side effects and contraindications. Most often they manifest themselves in patients with stomach ulcers and erosive gastritis, in the form of nausea, heartburn and vomiting. There may be headache, skin rash, sweating, and other side effects. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor before starting treatment, and if this is not possible, then you should not use Ibuklin on your own for more than 3 days.

Efferalgan – effervescent tablets

Efferalgan contains paracetamol, and is perhaps the leader in the ratings of antipyretic drugs in terms of its safety. It is no wonder that so many different commercial forms of paracetamol are available for use in children. Efferalgan contains 500 mg of paracetamol and is available in capsules and effervescent tablets for use in adults. In addition to lowering the temperature, Efferalgan also has an analgesic effect, so at the same time it is good for treating diffuse muscle pain during the flu, reduces sore throat, and reduces the severity of headaches. All of these symptoms are also often present with respiratory viral infections.

It is necessary to use Efferalgan by dissolving one effervescent tablet in a glass of warm water, and the daily dose should not exceed 6 tablets for an adult, and the maximum single dose should not be more than two tablets. But usually, in uncomplicated cases, a daily dose of 3 g works very well for the patient. It is not recommended to use this drug for more than 3 days as an antipyretic without a doctor's prescription. Efferalgan is produced by the pharmaceutical company Upsa, a derivative of Bristol-Myers Squibb, France. The average cost of one package of 16 effervescent tablets, designed for more than five days of use, does not exceed 150 rubles in a retail pharmacy chain in September 2018 prices.

Advantages and disadvantages

A big advantage of Efferalgan is its good tolerability, mild action, wide therapeutic range, as well as the ability to use it in children, for whom it is available in the form of rectal suppositories, oral solution and powder. Also, low cost is a fairly effective argument in favor of choosing this drug. However, symptoms of overdose are possible, especially if the patient has liver pathology. This is manifested primarily by nausea and discomfort in the right hypochondrium. The drug can also cause side effects such as allergic reactions and dizziness. But these symptoms are dose dependent, and if the patient does not exceed the recommended dosage of 3 g per day, then these conditions occur very rarely.

Cefekon-N is a special antipyretic agent, since it is produced in rectal suppositories, but is used not in children, but in adults. Cefekon-N contains the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug naproxen, which is relatively rarely used in clinical practice. In addition, the suppositories contain caffeine and salicylamide. Taken together, these suppositories relieve pain, reduce fever, and have an anti-inflammatory effect. The presence of caffeine invigorates, reduces drowsiness, has an antispasmodic effect on the smooth muscles of internal organs, and reduces the symptoms of a primary allergic reaction during ARVI. This drug is indicated as a common antipyretic for common colds. It is necessary to use Cefekon-N after a morning bowel movement, inserting one suppository deeply into the rectum one to three times a day, and after this manipulation it is necessary to lie quietly for half an hour. You can use this remedy yourself, but not longer than 3 days. Tsefekon-N in suppositories is produced by the domestic pharmaceutical concern Nizhpharm, and the average cost of one package of 10 suppositories is about 120 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

Cefekon-N is a drug that is indicated, albeit with caution, for patients with erosive-ulcerative gastritis and gastric ulcers, since it is administered rectally and does not irritate the gastric mucosa. In addition, the product, due to the caffeine it contains, reduces daytime sleepiness and the feeling of weakness that often occurs in the first days of both influenza and ARVI. This product is also widely used and has a low price. But it must be remembered that the drug is contraindicated in patients with high blood pressure, renal failure, insomnia and angle-closure glaucoma. That is why it is advisable to consult a specialist before starting treatment.

Symptomatic therapy

Moving on to symptomatic treatment, we can say that the antipyretic drugs described above also belong to this group of drugs, but they were highlighted separately because of their particular popularity. Symptoms of ARVI, and, above all, dangerous flu, consist of high fever, a feeling of weakness and headache, nasal congestion, or, on the contrary, dryness. Sometimes viral infections cause rhinorrhea, or the well-known “snot.” The patient is bothered by a dry cough and general weakness.

Therefore, to combat these unpleasant symptoms of a cold, such groups of drugs as antipyretics and analgesics to combat fever and symptoms of intoxication, sprays and solutions to moisturize the nasal mucosa and anticongestants to eliminate rhinorrhea, sputum thinners, as well as drugs for effective its removal. Medicines belonging to these categories will be discussed in this section. Most of them can be used in both adults and children. But still, the rating of drugs for the treatment of cold symptoms in children includes those drugs that are indicated for use in childhood, and the dosage of which is selected in a special way for use in pediatric practice.

The Best Cold Symptom Relievers for Adults

To treat cold symptoms in adults, the entire arsenal of modern drugs is used, but this rating includes those drugs that do not have an antipyretic effect, since these drugs were discussed above. But the list will still include a drug that reduces, among other things, the symptoms of fever. And let's start the review with just such a tool. This is a well-known effective anti-cold drug, Theraflu.

Theraflu for colds and flu contains 4 effective ingredients. This is paracetamol from the NSAID group, which has antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects, the alpha-adrenergic agonist phenylephrine, the histamine receptor blocker pheniramine, and vitamin C, or ascorbic acid. This unique combination of constituent components allows, in addition to the antipyretic and analgesic effect, Theraflu to have an antiallergic and decongestant effect. As a result, the remedy will be indicated not only for respiratory viral infections, with symptoms of fever, intoxication, and aches throughout the body. Theraflu successfully fights nasal congestion, sneezing and runny nose. Therefore, if you have a full range of such symptoms, you can save on medications, since Theraflu for flu and colds is a whole “small pharmacy”.

Theraflu is used by dissolving 1 packet in a glass of hot boiled water, and it should also be taken hot. You can take no more than three packets during the day. Taking the drug will be most comfortable if you take it at night, since the antihistamine contained in Theraflu has a sedative effect. Theraflu for colds and flu is produced by the French company Farmat, and the average cost of one package of 10 bags, designed for 3 days of use, is about 290 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

A big benefit from purchasing this drug will be the fact that for less than 300 rubles you can purchase a whole range of medications. This is an analgesic, antipyretic, a substitute for nasal drops, and a medicine to combat allergies (itching in the nose and sneezing). However, the disadvantage of this good cold medicine may be side effects such as drowsiness, allergic rash, dry mouth, abdominal discomfort, reflex urinary retention, and other unpleasant symptoms associated with the side effects of histamine receptor blockers. But on the other hand, if you do not exceed the recommended dosage and use just one sachet at night, this can significantly ease the course of colds and acute respiratory viral infections.

Otrivin complex is a modern and highly effective combined anticongestant. In simple terms, these are nasal drops in the form of a nasal spray. The drug contains ipratropium bromide and xylometazoline. As a result, the drug has not only a vasoconstrictor effect, but also an anticholinergic effect. The action of xylometazoline causes a narrowing of the capillaries of the nasal mucosa, which reduces swelling and hyperemia, and facilitates nasal breathing. And ipratropium bromide reduces the severity of the secretion of the sebaceous glands, and as a result, rhinorrhea stops. The product takes effect within 5 minutes, the effect of a single use lasts at least 6 hours.

Otrivin complex is usually indicated on the 2nd and 3rd days of the disease, when catarrhal phenomena join the symptoms of malaise and colds. Sometimes it happens the other way around: at the beginning a person begins to experience nasal congestion and only then does general malaise arise, so there is no single recipe for use. For adults, the product is injected into each nostril 3 times a day. Otrivin complex should not be reused more often than after 6 hours, and the specified number of intranasal instillations should not be exceeded more than 3 times a day. The duration of the course of treatment is no more than 7 days without a doctor’s recommendation. Otrivin complex is produced by the Swiss company Novartis, and one package of 10 ml spray will cost 225 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of this highly effective drug is its speed of action and duration, therefore, despite the relatively high price for intranasal drops, they are used very economically. However, in order to avoid the development of adverse reactions, you should not exceed the recommended dosage, otherwise unpleasant symptoms such as tachycardia, dry nasal mucosa or a burning sensation up to nosebleeds, dry mouth, and difficulty urinating may appear. This is all a consequence of the side effects of both adrenergic agonists and anticholinergics in high dosages. Therefore, if the patient initially has chronic diseases of the heart and blood vessels, or other diseases, for example, chronic renal failure, then a doctor’s consultation is necessary.

Flutidec (carbocysteine)

In the typical course of ARVI, patients begin to cough after a few days, and then it is necessary to take measures to evacuate accumulated sputum from the lungs, as well as increase its formation in order to avoid stagnation and infection of the mucous membrane not with viruses, but with microbes. Therefore, mucolytics and expectorants are used to prevent bacterial bronchitis. And such drugs include a highly effective drug - carbocysteine under the commercial name Fluditec. It comes in syrup form and is produced by the French company Innotek.

Its task is to activate a special bronchial enzyme called sialic transferase. As a result, the fluidity of bronchial secretions improves and its discharge to the outside is facilitated. Along the way, this drug increases the secretion of class A immunoglobulins, which help in the fight against microbial infection.

Fluditec is indicated for bronchitis, tracheobronchitis, as well as for the treatment of various diseases of the sinuses of the skull, such as sinusitis, and pathology of the middle ear. Adults should take the drug 15 ml of syrup 3 times a day, the best dose would be one hour before meals, or 2 hours after meals. Without consulting a doctor, you can take the drug on your own for no more than 10 days. The cost of 125 ml of syrup containing 5% carbocisteine is, on average, 380 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The most important advantage of this drug is its combined effect not only on bronchial secretions, which manifests itself in an increase in its fluidity, but also in enhancing local protection of the surface of the bronchial mucosa by increasing the concentration of secretory immunoglobulin A. Therefore, it is carbocysteine (Flutidec) that is best able to prevent the transition bronchitis and cough during ARVI to microbial colonization of the disturbed structures of the bronchial tree, preventing the development of secondary bronchitis.

The Best Cold Symptom Relievers for Kids

As you know, there are no special medications for children that adults would not use, since both the child’s body and the adult’s body are based on the same physiological and biochemical principles. It’s just that children’s medications have no contraindications for use in childhood, and their dosages are specially selected so that the drug is absorbed by the child’s body without exceeding the dose. Finally, a convenient dosage form can be considered a feature of the children's product: either in suppositories, or in the form of a suspension, or in the form of a delicious fruit syrup. The most popular and favorite cold remedy for all parents will be children's Nurofen. This is where the review begins.

Children's Nurofen contains a mildly active and relatively safe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug ibuprofen, and it is indicated for children with pain, fever with chills, catarrhal symptoms in the throat, muscle pain and acute respiratory tract infections, not to mention influenza and ARVI . The suspension is available with an orange or strawberry scent, and it must be used depending on the age of the baby. The earliest period of a child's life when this can be done is three months of age. But, no matter what the age and body weight of the child, you should not give more than 30 mg of the drug per kilogram of weight per day. Thus, children aged 1 year who weigh about 9 kg should not be given more than 10 ml of suspension per day, and a single dose should be 2.5 ml, three or four times a day. Detailed instructions are included with the drug. Nurofen for children is produced by the well-known pharmaceutical company Rackitt Benzikker, UK, and the average cost of one bottle of suspension with a volume of 150 ml will be 180 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of Nurofen can be considered high safety, and a mild antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect, but only if parents do not exceed the recommended dosage. In addition, there are clear contraindications, one of which is a child’s combination of bronchial asthma with aspirin intolerance, renal failure, or congenital bleeding disorders. Therefore, it is advisable to obtain recommendations from your treating pediatrician before using the product for the first time. Also, the drug should not be given to a child whose body weight is less than 5 kg.

Viferon in suppositories is a popular remedy for increasing immunity in a child. The main active ingredient of Viferon is recombinant interferon Alpha-2b in combination with vitamins: alpha-tocopherol and ascorbic acid. Viferon is used for complex therapy of various infectious diseases, starting from the first days of a baby’s life, and for both treatment and prevention. Viferon is used not only for ARVI, but also for other infections, including childhood infections: measles, whooping cough, mumps and others.

Viferon rectal suppositories should be used one suppository twice a day, that is, every 12 hours. The course of treatment is at least 5 days, and the suppositories have different dosages, from 150 thousand units to 3 million. Therefore, the initial recommendation for the use of this drug in a child should be given by a doctor, choosing an individual dosage. Viferon in candles is produced by the domestic company Feron. The cost of one package of candles (10 pieces) in a minimum dosage of 150,000 units is, on average, 250 rubles. Viferon candles must be stored in the refrigerator.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of these combined immune suppositories is the ability to use them in children for a wide variety of diseases, starting from the period of prematurity. They help not only with ARVI, but also with manifestations of herpes infection, with childhood viral diseases such as chickenpox and measles, they can be used for prevention. The disadvantage of this drug may be the insufficiently large number of randomized studies and the lack of experience in using this drug abroad.

In children, as in adults, one of the first symptoms of respiratory viral infections and colds is nasal congestion and swelling, rhinorrhea. But in children, the water content in the body is greater, the mucous membrane becomes looser than in adults, and the symptoms of congestion are more pronounced.

The most popular and safest of all means that are indicated for irrigating the nasal mucosa for colds in children is pure sea water. It contains all the necessary salts, iodine for disinfection, and the most typical representative of such natural medicines is the drug Aqua Maris Baby. It is intended for washing and irrigating the nasal cavity in children. Aqua Maris Baby is used for all acute respiratory viral infections, bacterial infections, sore throats, sinusitis, allergic lesions, simply dry mucous membranes, dusty air, and for another wide range of indications.

It is necessary to use Aqua Maris baby for rinsing each stroke, on average, 5 times a day daily when treating colds, and for prevention - 3 times a day. If the child has not yet reached the age of two, then the instructions include a special explanation of how to properly rinse the child’s nose.

Sea water is produced in a special metal bottle, which is under pressure, and the volume of the bottle is 50 ml. It is produced by the French company Yadran, and the average cost of this spray is 290 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

This spray would be good for everyone if it were not for its very high price. As the producers say, “the water is taken from an ecologically clean area of the Adriatic Sea, from a depth of more than 10 m.” But in any case, the cost of 50 ml of even the purest sea water should not be 5 times higher than the cost of a liter of milk, even taking into account retail sales laws. This fact is a significant psychological barrier for many categories of parents. And at the same time, they will not spare any money on medicines for the baby’s health, but they are not going to spend on water. But if this barrier is avoided, then this remedy will be an excellent substitute for anticongestants containing adrenergic agonists and other substances that have side effects.

About mucolytics for children

In the rating of cold medications for adults, the mucolytic carbocisteine was named. According to modern international studies, it has been proven that mucolytics should not be used in children. These include acylcysteine, Ambroxol, Bromhexine and many others. It turned out that many children experienced severe complications after regular use, and since April 2010, mucolytics for children have been banned in some countries, in particular in France. According to modern and indisputable data, such simple measures as drinking plenty of warm vitamin drinks, rinsing the nasal passages, and regularly humidifying the air in the room can get rid of phlegm with the same effectiveness, but without any risk.

Attention! This rating is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.