In its February 2014 issue, 60 Million Consumers rigorously tested 33 over-the-counter cold medications. Some formulations carry serious side effect risks, making them unsuitable for self-medication. Here's what their expert analysis reveals.
The common cold virus typically runs its course in 7 to 10 days. Remedies primarily ease symptoms like nasal congestion for added comfort. Choose single-active-ingredient products to avoid compounded risks—multi-ingredient combos multiply contraindications and potential dangers.
Of the 33 tested, 11 should be "avoided for self-medication," especially those pairing ibuprofen or paracetamol with vasoconstrictors. Three more are "not recommended" due to ineffective paracetamol-antihistamine combinations. Thirteen offer relief via proven extracts like camphor, eucalyptus, menthol, thyme, and pine. Two homeopathic options may help, though their efficacy remains debated. The standout four—saline or seawater-based sprays—are "strongly preferred," returning to safe, basic solutions.
Heavy advertising promotes multi-ingredient "explosive" remedies as go-to options, freely available without prescription. Ideally, pharmacists verify other medications you're taking and highlight risks—but this isn't always practiced.
Consult public drug databases for contraindications and adverse effects if in doubt.
Available on newsstands from January 23, 2014, this issue also ranks supermarkets for top promotions and exposes deceptive tactics like inflated reference prices, higher sale costs, display errors, and confusing discounts.
Monthly tests cover 14 audio headphones (including 3 Bluetooth models), separate fact from fiction in home care products and remedies (with surprises), and evaluate 10 strollers—confirming safety as paramount, disqualifying one model.
