Do cold meds actually work?

If you reach for cold or flu medicine when you're feeling under the weather, there's some important news you should know. One common ingredient in these medications is called phenylephrine. It's found in many over-the-counter products like Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion® and Sudafed PE®.

However, a group of experts from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) agreed that the pill form of phenylephrine doesn't seem to work as well as a nasal decongestant.(1)

Why should this matter to you?

Every year, people spend their money on these medications hoping to get some relief from stuffy noses and sinus pressure. But don't worry, the nasal sprays that have phenylephrine are still considered effective.

What's next?

The FDA is thinking about what to do next. They might ask companies to change how they make these medications or stop selling them in pill form. Until then, there are no safety issues if you continue to use the oral medication.(1)

The experts are saying that these pills might not be helping much at all meaning you may want to consider alternative options.

What can you do?

If you're looking for relief from cold or allergy symptoms, CenterWell can be a fantastic resource. Our care providers offer guidance on effective over-the-counter medications and can help you understand which options might work best for your specific symptoms. They might suggest:

Nasal spray antihistamines: For example, azelastine, available under various brand names, is good for quick relief from cold symptoms.
Nasal corticosteroids: Like Flonase® (fluticasone), which is great for reducing inflammation and treating severe nasal congestion.
Nasal saline sprays: Such as Simply Saline™, which is excellent for moisturizing dry nasal passages and flushing out mucus.
Oral antihistamines: Like Claritin® (loratadine) or Zyrtec® (cetirizine), which are effective for managing sneezing, runny nose and other symptoms.
Pseudoephedrine-based products: Remember, you'll need to ask for these at the pharmacy counter. They are effective for nasal decongestion.

You can order all of these medications and more at our online pharmacy (only Humana members can buy from our online store, sign up today).

Here are some tips for staying healthy during cold and flu seasons

When it gets chilly, or when a lot of people are getting sick, keeping a little space between yourself and others and wearing a mask when you're out can help keep those germs away. Also, taking extra vitamins like C, D and zinc might help your body fight off germs better, but it's a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting any new vitamins.(2)

Doing some light exercises, like walking or some easy stretches, can also make you stronger and help your body fight off sickness.(3) Drinking herbal teas can be soothing and might even help your body stay strong. Make sure to keep warm during cold weather, as being cold can make it harder for your body to fight off sickness.(4)

Have essentials like tissues and cough syrup at home, and maintain a list of contacts who can assist if you fall ill. CenterWell doctors can help you organize a personalized sick day plan, making sure you have everything you need.

CenterWell wants to help you stay healthy all winter long

If you're a Humana member, sign in to your CenterWell Pharmacy account to shop the over-the-counter (OTC) store. From there, you can buy vitamin C, zinc and cold medications to help prevent and make it easier to deal with colds and the flu. It's a convenient way to get everything you need delivered right to you doorstep.

By staying informed, following these tips and utilizing services from CenterWell, you can enjoy a healthier and safer winter season. Remember, taking proactive steps in your healthcare routine can make all the difference!

* Only Humana members can shop CenterWell Pharmacy’s over-the-counter store.

Disclaimer: Content contained on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new fitness or dietary plan. References provided are for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement of any websites or other sources.