Complementary medicines (e.g. echinacea) and supplements (e.g. vitamin C) show little evidence to help a cold. Antibiotics are not recommended for colds as they treat bacterial rather than viral infections.

It is vital to check the age of the patient, as well as other factors such as pregnancy, breastfeeding and other health conditions or medicines being taken, when anyone is buying cold products. Note that there are also restrictions on sales of products containing pseudoephedrine and ephedrine – speak to your pharmacist for further information.

Remember!

Many cold remedies are combination products, containing more than one medicine. Be careful when recommending and advising on their use and always check if the person is taking any other medicines – both prescribed and OTC – in case there is a risk of overdose.