ZyrTEC-D: Understanding Cough & Cold Combinations (Oral Route)

Understanding Cough & Cold Combinations (Oral Route)

Cough & cold combinations are generally utilized to relieve a cough caused by colds, influenza, and hay fever. They are not, however, indicated for the chronic cough caused by smoking, asthma, or emphysema, or when one is experiencing a large amount of mucus or phlegm with the cough. Generally, these products include an antihistamine, decongestant, and an analgesic, in addition to a medicine for coughing.

Types of Cough & Cold Combinations

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are used to alleviate or prevent the symptoms of hay fever or other types of allergies. They can also be used for common cold symptoms including a stuffy or runny nose. They achieve this by blocking the effects of histamine, which is naturally produced by the body. Some common antihistamines found in cough & cold combinations include Bromodiphenhydramine, Brompheniramine, Carbinoxamine, Dexchlorpheniramine, Diphenhydramine, and more.

Decongestants

Decongestants work to clear nasal congestion by producing a narrowing of blood vessels. Individuals with high blood pressure may need to be more cautious, as this effect could potentially increase the blood pressure. Common decongestants consisting of these products are Ephedrine, Phenylephrine, and Pseudoephedrine.

Antitussives

Antitussives help reduce coughing, and some contain a narcotic. The active ingredients work directly on the coughing center in the brain. Narcotics can be habit-forming and cause physical dependence. Narcotic antitussives include Codeine, Dihydrocodeine, Hydrocodone, and more. Non-narcotic antitussives include Carbetapentane, Caramiphen, Dextromethorphan, and more.

Expectorants

Expectorants are also included in these combinations, and they work by loosening the mucus found in the lungs. A common example of an expectorant used in cough and cold mixtures is guaifenesin.

Analgesics

Analgesics are found in these products to help relieve aches and pains, frequently associated with the common cold. Popular analgesics include Acetaminophen, Aspirin, salicylamide, and sodium salicylate. Taking too much of both of these at the same time may lead to renal damage or bladder cancer when taken for a long period of time.

Anticholinergics

Anticholinergics, such as homatropine, are often included to produce a drying effect in the nasal passages and chest.

Finding the Right Product

When finding a product to treat or prevent common cold or flu symptoms, it is important to select a product that will best meet your needs. It may also be of best interest to stick to products that include only what is truly needed to treat the symptoms. Cough/cold combinations are available with and without prescription, however, do not give any over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicine to a baby or child under the age of four.

Dosage Forms

Cough & Cold Combinations (Oral Route) are available in the following dosage forms:

• Solution
• Tablet, Chewable
• Tablet, Extended Release, 24 HR
• Tablet, Extended Release
• Tablet, Extended Release, 12 HR
• Tablet
• Syrup
• Liquid
• Capsule, Liquid Filled
• Capsule
• Elixir
• Suspension, Extended Release
• Lozenge/Troche
• Suspension
• Tablet, Effervescent
• Packet
• Powder for Solution
• Film

The most popular variant of the Cough & Cold Combinations (Oral Route) is ZyrTEC-D, which is widely available in the US and Canada. The product includes an antihistamine (Cetirizine) and decongestant (pseudoephedrine). It is widely available in various dosage forms, including Tablets, 24 Hour Extended Release Tablets, Chewable Tablets, and Syrup.

Conclusion

Cough & cold combinations are specifically designed to treat the common cold and its associated symptoms. Before selecting a product, it is important to be mindful of the different active ingredients, any potential side effects, and safety precautions that may be needed while taking the product. ZyrTEC-D is a widely used product offering relief from the Common Cold and its associated symptoms.