Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications

posted on January 14, 2011

Over-the-Counter medications are available without a prescription and can alleviate certain symptoms.

  • Antihistamines
    Antihistamines are administered to alleviate “allergy” symptoms, but too much use may magnify a more underlying sinus ailment.
  • Decongestants
    Decongestants cause constriction or tightening of the blood vessels in the membranes of the nose and air passages, which forces much of the blood out of the membranes so that they shrink.
  • Combination Remedies
    Many medications combine antihistamines and decongestants, which may reduce side effects of each.
  • Cold Remedies
    Decongestants and/or antihistamines are the principal ingredients in cold remedies, but drying agents, aspirin, and cough suppressants may also be added.

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