The cold and flu season may be lethal for seniors and those of us with weak immune systems. Even a slight cough or episode of influenza may result in life-threatening consequences, hospitalizations, and a significant decrease in the quality of life for someone 65 years old or above. According to a recent report by the CDC, the majority of the individuals who died from complications that were flu-related were above the age of 65. This indicates how essential it is to have the best cold medicines for adults at home.
Vaccination is the most critical step you can take to prevent the flu and the array of severe problems that may accompany it. Everyone 6 months old and above is advised to get a flu vaccination. They are often accessible from October through January, or even longer, depending on the path of the virus for that year. These vaccinations are administered by injection or nasal spray. However, depending on your region, there may be specialized flu vaccinations for seniors called the high dose flu vaccine or the adjuvanted flu vaccine.
If you do get ill after receiving a flu vaccination, there are the best cold medicines for adults and therapies available that may help. While there is no treatment for the flu other than hydration and rest, these medicines may help alleviate some of the more unpleasant symptoms associated with this illness.
Theraflu
Theraflu produces a range of anti-cold and anti-flu medicines, including syrups, tablets, single-serve pods, and liquid powder. Regardless of the formulation, each of their products has the same active components. Dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant, helps you breathe better by temporarily stopping coughing episodes. Pheniramine is an antihistamine, while phenylephrine is a nasal decongestant. Both of these medications may assist in shrinking your nose’s blood vessels, thus preventing them from being clogged.
Seniors should not use this without first contacting a physician, since it may interfere with medications used to treat depression or Parkinson’s disease, as well as MAO inhibitors. Additionally, you should avoid driving and other vigorous activities after your first dosage, since they may induce drowsiness. By dissolving the powder in warm water, you may create a warm and soothing beverage that may help alleviate cold and flu symptoms.
Oscillococcinum
It is a well-known homeopathic medicine that is readily accessible in supermarkets, pharmacies, and health food shops. It’s a natural product that promises to alleviate “flu-like” symptoms such as tiredness, body pain, chills, headache, and fever. Each box contains six doses of quick-dissolving pellets (0.04oz), which should last for two days if taken as directed on the packaging. It is advised that you begin taking the tablets as soon as you feel the first symptoms of a cold or flu.
The active component is an extract of the liver and heart of a duck. Yes, these tablets contain trace quantities of duck heart and liver. Technically, this is not a prescription medication; rather, it is a dietary supplement, so buy at your own risk. According to evidence and feedback, these medications have little effect.
Robitussin
Robitussin is a drug that is an antitussive. It is often called a cough suppressant that works by temporarily suppressing coughing episodes. Coughing can be exhausting for many people when they have the flu or a cold. It irritates the throat and makes the chest feel painful and constricted. Robitussin will not cure your cough. However, it will temporarily suppress it, providing a much-needed respite.
If you are a senior, you should contact a physician before taking any of these medications, since they may cause mild side effects such as disorientation, sleepiness, or nausea. Additionally, it interacts with a large number of medicines, so if you take any prescription medications on a daily basis, contact your doctor or pharmacist before using Robitussin.
It is suggested that Robitussin should not be taken more than 5 to 10 mg every four hours or as needed, and a maximum of 60 mg in a day.
Tylenol
Tylenol is a very common pain medication that is often used to treat mild aches and pains. Though it is a popular over-the-counter medicine, it is important to use it properly, particularly if you are also on other drugs.
Although it is usually safe to use, you should abstain from using it if you have a history of liver issues. It’s good medicine to keep on hand in case of an unexpected cold or illness. It will assist in alleviating dull headaches and fevers, as well as the pain and aches associated with chronic coughing fits. Consult a doctor immediately if you are taking Tylenol and have unexpected side effects such as sleeplessness, constipation, or anxiety.
Nyquil
Nyquil is a well-known nighttime cold and flu medicine and one of the best cold medicines for adults. It contains four distinct medications, each of which serves a different role in assisting with sleep. There is acetaminophen, a pain medication that may also assist with fever reduction. Dextromethorphan is a widely used cough suppressant that is chemically identical to the main component in Robitussin.
Additionally, there are decongestants that aid in the loosening of mucus and fluid in the lungs, allowing them to be more easily evacuated. Antihistamines are the final active ingredients that help to relieve sneezing and unpleasant itching sensation in the throat, eyes, and nose. It is available in both liquid form and gel caps.
If you are above the age of 65, you should contact your physician before using Nyquil. It is not advised for those who have recently taken MAO inhibitors or are presently taking potassium supplements.