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Best Medicine For Cough And Runny Nose (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for relief from a cough and runny nose, there are many over-the-counter medicines available. However, it's important to consider a few key factors before selecting a product.

First and foremost, you should consult with your healthcare provider to determine if an over-the-counter medicine is appropriate for your symptoms. Additionally, consider your own personal preferences when it comes to medication. Do you prefer liquid or pill form? Do you have any allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients?

Some other factors to consider include the length and severity of your symptoms, as well as any potential drug interactions with other medications you may be taking.

If you're still unsure which medicine is right for you, ask yourself some questions. How quickly do you need relief? Are you comfortable with potential side effects? Do you prefer natural remedies over traditional medications? By considering these factors and asking yourself these questions, you can make a more informed decision about which medicine for cough and runny nose is best for you.

10 Best Medicine For Cough And Runny Nose

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for relieving cold and allergy symptoms such as stuffy/runny nose, sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, and cough.
2
This product is ideal for relieving cold and cough symptoms in children.
3
Ideal for children's nighttime cold and cough relief, relieving sneezing, runny nose, and cough with a berry flavor.
4
Ideal for providing powerful relief from multiple cold and flu symptoms such as headache, fever, cough, and runny nose.
5
This product is ideal for relieving symptoms of cold and flu, such as coughing, sore throat, congestion, fever, and runny nose.
6
Relieves multiple symptoms of cold and flu, including aches, fever, sore throat, sneezing, runny nose, and cough.
7
The product is ideal for providing a natural and soothing vapor bath experience.
8
The product is ideal for boosting immunity with its blend of vitamins and herbs.
9
This product is ideal for relieving nasal and chest congestion, runny nose, and sore throat associated with a cold and cough.
10
Ideal for steak lovers who want high-quality, all-natural prime rib delivered to their home and perfect for pairing with delicious steak rubs.
This product is ideal for relieving cold and allergy symptoms such as stuffy/runny nose, sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, and cough.
This product is ideal for relieving cold and cough symptoms in children.
Ideal for children's nighttime cold and cough relief, relieving sneezing, runny nose, and cough with a berry flavor.
Ideal for providing powerful relief from multiple cold and flu symptoms such as headache, fever, cough, and runny nose.
This product is ideal for relieving symptoms of cold and flu, such as coughing, sore throat, congestion, fever, and runny nose.
Relieves multiple symptoms of cold and flu, including aches, fever, sore throat, sneezing, runny nose, and cough.
The product is ideal for providing a natural and soothing vapor bath experience.
The product is ideal for boosting immunity with its blend of vitamins and herbs.
This product is ideal for relieving nasal and chest congestion, runny nose, and sore throat associated with a cold and cough.
Ideal for steak lovers who want high-quality, all-natural prime rib delivered to their home and perfect for pairing with delicious steak rubs.

1. Grape-Flavored Children's Nighttime Cold Relief

When your child is suffering from cold symptoms, provide them with effective relief using Children’s Dimetapp Nighttime Cold & Congestion Relief. This grape-flavored medicine is formulated specially for children 6 years and above. It provides a sweet grape flavor but with a powerful punch against cold symptoms like runny nose, stuffy nose, and sneezing.

This nighttime formula is designed to help your child get the rest they need to feel better, faster. It relieves stuffy nose, runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes and cough. The cold-fighting ingredients in this medicine include a nasal decongestant that helps to unblock the nasal passages, enabling freer breathing through the nose. It also contains an antihistamine/cough suppressant that helps to reduce coughing and other cold symptoms.

Pharmacist-recommended for children’s cough/cold combination products, Children’s Dimetapp has been trusted by parents for over 50 years as a safe and effective relief. This medicine is HSA and FSA eligible item and should be used as directed.

Pros

  • Grape-flavored medicine that is easy for children to take
  • Provides effective relief against cold symptoms like runny nose, stuffy nose, and sneezing
  • Formulated specifically for children 6 years and above
  • Designed for nighttime use to help children get the rest they need
  • Contains a nasal decongestant to unblock nasal passages
  • Contains an antihistamine/cough suppressant to reduce coughing and other cold symptoms
  • Pharmacist-recommended for children’s cough/cold combination products
  • HSA and FSA eligible item

Cons

  • – May cause drowsiness
  • – Should only be used as directed

2. Tylenol Children's Cold + Cough + Runny Nose Oral Suspension, Grape, 4 Fl. Oz

If your child is suffering from the common cold or flu, Children's Tylenol Cold + Cough + Runny Nose Oral Suspension Medicine can provide temporary relief from their symptoms. This kids' liquid pain relief medicine is specially formulated to alleviate sore throat, cough, runny nose, and sneezing. It also relieves minor aches and pains, headaches, and reduces fever fast, without the use of ibuprofen, aspirin or alcohol.

Each 5-milliliter dose of this children's medicine contains 160 milligrams of acetaminophen pain reliever and fever reducer. It also contains 1 milligram of the antihistamine chlorpheniramine maleate, which helps to relieve allergy symptoms like runny nose and sneezing. Additionally, the medicine contains 5 milligrams of the cough suppressant dextromethorphan HBr, which helps to soothe coughs.

The liquid cold medicine for children comes in a kid-friendly grape flavor that is gentle on the tummy and ideal for kids ages 6 to 11 years. Parents can trust Children's Tylenol as it is the #1 pediatrician recommended brand for pain and fever relief, and has been used by parents decade after decade.

When using this medication, it is important to follow the recommended dosages and not exceed the maximum daily dose. Children's Tylenol Cold + Cough + Runny Nose Oral Suspension Medicine is a great way to help your child feel better and get back to their normal routine, even when they have a cold or flu.

Pros

  • Provides temporary relief from cold and flu symptoms like sore throat, cough, runny nose, and sneezing
  • Relieves minor aches and pains, headaches, and reduces fever fast
  • Alcohol-free formula
  • Kid-friendly grape flavor that is gentle on the tummy and ideal for kids ages 6 to 11 years
  • #1 pediatrician recommended brand for pain and fever relief

Cons

  • – Should not be used for children under the age of 6 years
  • – Should not exceed recommended dosages

3. Vicks Children's Nighttime Multi-Symptom Relief

This product is specially designed to provide temporary relief for cold symptoms in children aged 6 years and above. It can help to alleviate coughs caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, as well as sneezing and runny nose. This medication does not contain alcohol, aspirin, or acetaminophen, so parents can have peace of mind knowing their child can rest safely. To ensure the correct dosing, it is essential to read each label carefully and use as directed. It is essential to keep this medication out of reach of children.

This medication offers a safe and effective solution for parents looking to provide relief for their child's cold symptoms. It is easy to administer and does not contain any harmful ingredients that could cause adverse reactions. Parents can trust this medication to help their child feel more comfortable while they recover from their cold.

Pros

  • Provides temporary relief for cold symptoms in children aged 6 years and above
  • Alleviates coughs caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, as well as sneezing and runny nose
  • Does not contain alcohol, aspirin, or acetaminophen, making it safe for children to rest
  • Easy to administer

Cons

  • – Careful reading of each label is required to ensure correct dosing
  • – Should be kept out of reach of children to avoid accidental ingestion

4. Nighttime Relief For Cold And Flu Symptoms.

NyQuil Cold & Flu Liquid medicine is a fast-acting and powerful multi-symptom reliever that helps alleviate headache, fever, sore throat, minor aches and pains, sneezing, runny nose, and cough. It provides effective nighttime cold and flu symptom relief, allowing you to get the rest you need. Don't let your cold keep you up at night. Just one dose of NyQuil starts working fast to provide relief so that you can sleep peacefully. NyQuil helps you power through your worst cold and flu symptoms, such as cough and fever, so that you can continue with your daily routine.

Vicks, the world's #1 selling OTC cough and cold brand, has been a trusted name for over 125 years in providing relief from the worst cold and flu symptoms.

Pros

  • Provides fast and powerful multi-symptom relief
  • Effective nighttime cold and flu symptom relief
  • Helps you sleep peacefully by relieving your symptoms
  • Enables you to power through your worst cold and flu symptoms
  • Trusted for over 125 years

5. Nightshift Fastmax Cold & Flu Relief Duo

The Maximum Strength Mucinex Fast-Max DM Max and Nightshift Cold and Flu Combo Pack provides powerful multi-symptom relief for various symptoms. It is specially designed to relieve the worst symptoms of chest congestion, cough, headache, sore throat, fever, minor aches and pains, sneezing, and runny nose. The relief offered by this combo pack is fast-acting and long-lasting, ensuring that you wake up feeling better in the morning.

The Maximum Strength Mucinex Fast-Max DM MAX helps to relieve chest congestion, control cough and thin and loosen mucus in the chest. On the other hand, the Mucinex Nightshift Cold and Flu reduces fever, relieves headache, minor aches and pains, sore throat, coughing, sneezing, and runny nose. This combo pack is suitable for ages 12 years and above.

Mucinex is a trusted cold and cough brand that doctors recommend and pharmacists trust. The active ingredients in Mucinex Fast-Max DM Max include Dextromethorphan HBr, which is a cough suppressant, and Guaifenesin, which is an expectorant. The active ingredients in Mucinex Nightshift Cold and Flu include Acetaminophen, which is a pain reliever and fever reducer, Dextromethorphan HBr, which is a cough suppressant, and Triprolidine HCl, which is an antihistamine.

The combo pack is FSA and HSA eligible, which means that you can save up to 30 percent on your out-of-pocket expenses by using pre-tax dollars. It is important to use this combo pack as directed to ensure maximum relief of your symptoms.

Pros

  • Provides powerful multi-symptom relief for various symptoms.
  • Relieves chest congestion, cough, headache, sore throat, fever, minor aches and pains, sneezing, and runny nose.
  • Fast-acting and long-lasting relief.
  • Suitable for ages 12 years and above.
  • Trusted cold and cough brand that doctors recommend and pharmacists trust.
  • FSA and HSA eligible.

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or who are taking certain medications.
  • – May cause drowsiness or dizziness.
  • – May cause side effects such as nausea or vomiting.

6. Nyquil 12oz: Cold & Flu Relief

NyQuil Liquid is a powerful medication that provides temporary relief from common cold and flu symptoms. It effectively reduces cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, sore throat, headache, minor aches and pains, fever, runny nose and sneezing. It comes in three different flavors, Original, cherry and vanilla cherry swirl, which makes it more convenient and palatable for consumers.

When using DayQuil or NyQuil products, it is important to read each label carefully to ensure that the correct dosing is administered. This medication should be used as directed and kept out of reach of children to prevent any accidents or misuse.

Pros

  • Provides temporary relief from common cold and flu symptoms
  • Effective in reducing cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, sore throat, headache, minor aches and pains, fever, runny nose and sneezing
  • Comes in three different flavors, Original, cherry and vanilla cherry swirl, making it more convenient and palatable for consumers

Cons

  • – May cause drowsiness or dizziness
  • – May interact with other medications or medical conditions

7. Frida Baby Natural Vapor Bath Bombs, 3 Count

The Sick Day Relief bath bombs are the perfect solution to help toddlers feel more comfortable and relaxed during sick days. With a special formulation of essential oils such as eucalyptus and lavender, these bath bombs help little ones breathe more easily and feel more at ease.

Not only do these bath bombs provide relief, but they also add some fun to bath time! The fizzing action of the bath bombs creates a fun and entertaining experience for children, helping to beat the sick day blues.

To use, simply drop one bath bomb into the bathtub and wait 6-8 minutes for it to dissolve. These bath bombs are recommended for children 2 years old and above.

Get the Sick Day Relief bath bombs today and help your child feel more comfortable and relaxed during sick days!

Pros

  • Formulated with essential oils such as eucalyptus and lavender for a soothing and calming effect
  • Provides relief and comfort to toddlers during sick days
  • Creates a fun and entertaining experience during bath time
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • – May not work for all children

8. Extra-Strength Immune Boosting Elixir.

Extra Strength ACF is an immune support supplement that is designed to quickly boost the immune system. It contains a blend of bioactive herbs, plant sourced vitamins, and minerals in natural juice flavors, making it a powerful and refreshing way to take care of your health.

This liquid ultra-high bioactive, high potency, extreme herbal blend includes Elderberry, Echinacea, Goldenseal, Olive Leaf, Marshmallow, Thyme, Usnea, Myrrh Androphraphis, and White Willow Bark (for an earthy flavor). It also has 1000 mg of Vitamin C, Magnesium, and Zinc in a liquid formula for fast immune support.

Extra Strength ACF includes specific herbs that support upper respiratory function, making it an ideal supplement for seasonal changes. It is gluten, wheat, yeast, and dairy-free, making it safe for vegetarian consumption. The product is manufactured in an FDA, USDA, and cGMP compliant facility in Pikeville, TN.

Pros

  • Contains a blend of bioactive herbs, plant-sourced vitamins, and minerals for powerful immune support.
  • Designed to work quickly and effectively for all challenges during seasonal changes.
  • Includes herbs specific for upper respiratory support.
  • Gluten, wheat, yeast, and dairy-free, making it safe for vegetarian consumption.
  • Manufactured in an FDA, USDA, and cGMP compliant facility in Pikeville, TN.

9. Relieve Cold & Cough Fast – Boiron Syrup

Chestal Cold & Cough is a multi-symptom formula designed to alleviate the symptoms of the common cold such as chest and nasal congestion, cough, runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and minor throat soreness. It is a dye-free syrup that is safe for children aged three years and older. This product does not cause drowsiness or interact with other medications, making it a suitable choice for individuals with a busy lifestyle. Chestal Cold & Cough works best when taken at the first sign of cold and cough symptoms.

Chestal Cold & Cough is an effective day and night solution. It calms dry, fitful coughs at bedtime, ensuring that they do not disrupt sleep. This product does not have any drowsy side effects, allowing individuals to go about their day as usual. Chestal Cold & Cough's natural active ingredients include Dulcamara 5C, Ferrum phosphoricum 9C, Hydrastis canadensis 9C, Kali bichromicum 9C, and Nux vomica 9C. These ingredients work together to relieve colds and coughs associated with various symptoms.

Boiron, the manufacturer of Chestal Cold & Cough, has been committed to providing quality medicines since 1932. They believe that there is more than one way to feel better and are passionate about their customers' health. As a world leader in homeopathy, Boiron promises satisfaction with their products.

Pros

  • Effectively targets multiple cold and cough symptoms
  • Dye-free and safe for children aged three years and older
  • Does not cause drowsiness or interact with other medications
  • Calms dry, fitful coughs at bedtime without any drowsy side effects
  • Natural active ingredients provide relief for various symptoms
  • Manufacturer committed to providing quality medicines since 1932

10. Prime Rib Steaks – Natural Hand-Cut Delivered!

Make your holiday dinner memorable with this natural angus prime rib. Weighing 6 lbs, it can easily serve 4-6 people. This well-marbled and tender prime rib is wet-aged for 35 days or more, ensuring the most delicious flavor that you can savor with every bite. To enhance its taste, pair it with our Horseradish Prime Rib Rub, which is sold separately. This classic rub accentuates the flavor of steak, making it a perfect addition to your prime rib. Our prime rib is traditionally raised, aged, and butchered by hand, ensuring excellence in every cut. We take pride in providing healthy products that are free from antibiotics and hormones, making it safe for your family's consumption. Our commitment to excellence extends to modern conveniences such as online ordering, so you can have your prime rib delivered right to your doorstep.

Experience the succulent and juicy flavor of our natural angus prime rib, which is perfect for holiday feasts. This 6 lbs prime rib is well-marbled and tender, and it is wet-aged for 35 days or more, resulting in unparalleled flavor. Our Horseradish Prime Rib Rub adds a mouth-watering accent to the flavor of the steak, and it is sold separately. Our prime rib is raised and aged traditionally, ensuring the highest quality, humanely-raised, and free from antibiotics and hormones. We prioritize the health of our consumers, and we believe in providing excellence in every aspect of our products, from the traditional hand-cutting and trimming to the modern convenience of online ordering.

Serve the perfect holiday main course with our natural angus prime rib. Weighing 6 lbs, it can feed 4-6 family members. This prime rib is well-marbled and tender, and it is wet-aged for 35 days or more, resulting in the most delicious flavor that you can enjoy. Add an extra layer of flavor by pairing it with our Horseradish Prime Rib Rub, which is sold separately. Our prime rib is raised, aged, and butchered the traditional way, ensuring excellence in every cut. It is also humanely-raised and free from antibiotics and hormones, making it a healthy option for your family. We believe in the convenience of online ordering and delivering your prime rib straight to your door.

Pros

  • Well-marbled and tender prime rib
  • Wet-aged for 35 days or more, resulting in an unparalleled flavor
  • Horseradish Prime Rib Rub adds an extra layer of flavor
  • Traditionally raised, aged, and butchered for excellence in every cut
  • Free from antibiotics and hormones, making it safe for consumption
  • Convenient online ordering and delivery

Best Medicine For Cough And Runny Nose FAQs

Are there any natural remedies or home remedies that can help relieve cough and runny nose symptoms?

Yes, there are several natural remedies and home remedies that can help relieve cough and runny nose symptoms. One of the most effective remedies is to drink lots of fluids, such as water, herbal tea, and soup. This will help keep your body hydrated and loosen up the mucus in your throat and nose, making it easier to expel.

Another effective remedy is to use a saline nasal spray or rinse. This can help clear out the nasal passages and reduce congestion. You can also try inhaling steam by taking a hot shower or using a humidifier. This will help soothe your throat and nose and reduce coughing.

Other natural remedies include ginger, honey, and lemon. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce coughing and congestion. Honey can help soothe a sore throat, while lemon can help boost your immune system.

It's important to note that natural remedies should be used in conjunction with traditional medical treatments, such as over-the-counter cough and cold medicines or prescription medications. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to seek medical attention.

Can children or pregnant women safely take medicine for cough and runny nose, and if so, what are the recommended dosages and precautions?

Children and pregnant women should always exercise caution when taking medicine for cough and runny nose. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before taking any form of medication, especially during pregnancy. Certain cough and cold medications are not safe for pregnant women and children under six years of age. The dosage of medication should also be carefully monitored, as excessive use can lead to adverse effects.

For children, over-the-counter cough and cold medications should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, and dosage should be based on the child's weight and age. Pregnant women should avoid medications that contain aspirin or ibuprofen, as they can increase the risk of bleeding and other complications.

Alternative remedies such as warm fluids, rest, and saline nasal drops are often recommended for pregnant women and children. It is important to prioritize safety when treating cough and runny nose, and always consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication.

How long should I take medicine for cough and runny nose symptoms, and when should I see a doctor if they persist?

If you are experiencing symptoms of cough and runny nose, it is important to take the necessary steps to alleviate them. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, it is recommended to take medicine for a period of 5-7 days. However, if your symptoms persist beyond this time frame, it is advisable to seek medical attention.

If your cough and runny nose symptoms are accompanied by a fever, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or other severe symptoms, it is imperative to seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires prompt medical attention.

In addition to taking medicine, there are several other steps you can take to alleviate the symptoms of cough and runny nose. Drinking plenty of fluids, getting adequate rest, and avoiding irritants such as smoke and pollution can all help to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.

Ultimately, if your symptoms persist beyond the recommended time frame or are accompanied by severe symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

What are the common side effects of cough and runny nose medicines, and how can they be managed?

Cough and runny nose medicines, like any other medications, can have potential side effects. Some common side effects of these medicines include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, and nausea. These side effects can be managed by taking the medicine as prescribed by the doctor or pharmacist. It is important to follow the instructions carefully and not to exceed the recommended dosage.

If the side effects persist or become severe, it is important to consult a healthcare professional immediately. They may suggest changing the medication or adjusting the dosage to minimize the side effects.

Other ways to manage the side effects of cough and runny nose medicines include drinking plenty of water to keep the body hydrated, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and getting enough rest. These measures can help alleviate the symptoms and make the recovery process more comfortable.

In conclusion, while cough and runny nose medicines can be effective in treating these symptoms, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects and take steps to manage them. Consultation with a healthcare provider is always recommended to ensure safe and effective use of any medication.

What are the most effective over-the-counter medicines for treating cough and runny nose symptoms?

When it comes to treating cough and runny nose symptoms, there are several over-the-counter medicines that can help. One of the most commonly used medications is cough suppressants, such as dextromethorphan. These medicines work by blocking the cough reflex in the brain, reducing the urge to cough.

Another type of medication that can be effective in treating cough and runny nose symptoms is decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine. Decongestants work by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages, which helps to reduce inflammation and congestion.

Antihistamines are also useful in treating these symptoms, especially when they are caused by allergies. These medications work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical that is released during an allergic reaction.

It's important to note that over-the-counter medicines should only be used as directed and for a limited period of time. If symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to seek medical advice. In some cases, a prescription medication may be necessary to effectively treat cough and runny nose symptoms.

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