What medications can treat discomfort caused by a cold?

Generally, common cold is mostly caused by viral infections. Common symptoms include fever, headache, nasal congestion, cough, and sore throat. Patients may take medications such as Paracetamol Tablets, Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride Sustained-Release Capsules, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Oral Solution, Lianhua Qingwen Capsules, and Watermelon Frost Throat Tablets, under medical guidance to relieve discomfort. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Paracetamol Tablets

Belonging to antipyretic analgesics, these tablets inhibit prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system, reducing prostaglandin release. They rapidly alleviate fever caused by the common cold and simultaneously relieve discomfort such as headache, sore throat, and muscle pain. They have minimal gastrointestinal irritation and are suitable for most people. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage to avoid liver damage from overdose.

2. Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride Sustained-Release Capsules

Acting as a decongestant, this medication selectively acts on α-adrenergic receptors in the nasal mucosa, causing vasoconstriction of nasal mucosal blood vessels, thereby alleviating nasal congestion, mucosal congestion, and swelling caused by the common cold. The sustained-release formulation ensures prolonged effectiveness, reducing the frequency of administration. Patients with hypertension or coronary heart disease should use this medication cautiously under medical supervision.

3. Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Oral Solution

This is a central-acting antitussive that suppresses the cough center in the medulla oblongata, effectively relieving dry cough caused by the common cold and reducing throat irritation from frequent coughing. It is suitable for patients with little or no phlegm. Caution should be exercised in patients with excessive phlegm, as cough suppression may hinder expectoration, leading to mucus retention in the respiratory tract and increasing the risk of infection.

4. Lianhua Qingwen Capsules

A traditional Chinese medicine composed of ingredients such as Forsythia fruit, Honeysuckle flower, and Ephedra, these capsules have the functions of clearing heat toxins and relieving lung congestion and inflammation. They can inhibit viral replication, reduce inflammatory responses, and alleviate symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough, and runny nose caused by the common cold. Particularly suitable for colds caused by heat toxins invading the lungs, they help regulate the body's condition and promote recovery from the common cold.

5. Watermelon Frost Throat Tablets

Primarily composed of watermelon frost, borneol, menthol, and other ingredients, these tablets have the effects of soothing the throat, reducing swelling, and relieving pain. When taken sublingually, the medication acts directly on the throat mucosa, alleviating symptoms such as sore throat and hoarseness caused by the common cold. The cooling sensation helps relieve throat dryness and heat discomfort, making them suitable for daily relief of localized throat symptoms.

During this time, it is important to drink plenty of warm water to keep the throat moist, maintain a light diet, avoid spicy and greasy foods that may irritate the throat, ensure adequate rest, and avoid excessive fatigue to support the body's ability to fight off viruses and promote recovery from the common cold. If symptoms persist or worsen or if high fever does not subside, prompt medical attention should be sought.