Frequently asked questions
Is it a cold, flu or hay fever?
A cold usually comes on gradually, with a runny or blocked nose, sneezing and a sore throat. Flu tends to hit suddenly, with a high temperature, aches and exhaustion. Hay fever brings sneezing, a runny nose and itchy, watery eyes, but no fever, and it tends to flare when pollen is high. Colds and flu are treated by easing the symptoms, while hay fever usually responds best to an antihistamine.
Which cough medicine should I choose?
It depends on the cough. A chesty cough brings up mucus, and an expectorant or a mucus-thinning medicine such as Exputex helps loosen it. A dry, tickly cough brings nothing up, and a soothing or suppressant syrup suits it better. Our cough range is labelled by type. Many cough medicines should not be taken alongside other cough or cold products, so check the label or ask us.
Can I take a cold and flu remedy with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
Take care. Many cold and flu products already contain paracetamol, and some contain ibuprofen, so taking a separate painkiller as well can mean taking too much. Always check the active ingredients on every pack, and ask our pharmacists if you're unsure.
How long can I use a decongestant nasal spray?
Most decongestant sprays and drops should be used for no more than 7 days in a row. Using them for longer can leave the nose more blocked than before. Saline sprays and rinses, such as NeilMed, are drug-free and can be used for longer. Always follow the directions on the pack.
Are cold and flu medicines suitable for children?
Many cough and cold medicines are not suitable for young children. Some children's products start from 6 years, and each has its own age range, so always check the pack. For a high temperature in babies and children, see our baby and children's pain relief range, and speak to your pharmacist or GP if you're worried.
Who should check with a pharmacist first?
Decongestants and some combination products are not suitable for everyone. Talk to your pharmacist before buying if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, glaucoma or an enlarged prostate, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you take other medicines, especially antidepressants.
Do hay fever tablets cause drowsiness?
Newer antihistamines such as cetirizine and loratadine are less likely to cause drowsiness, though some people still notice it. Older antihistamines, such as chlorphenamine in Piriton, are more likely to make you drowsy. Avoid alcohol, and don't drive if you feel affected.
When should I see a doctor?
See your GP if a cough lasts more than three weeks, or if symptoms get worse instead of better. Get medical help straight away if you have difficulty breathing, chest pain, or you cough up blood, or if a baby or young child has a high temperature and seems very unwell.
