What is the best medicine for congestion?
These include Allegra, Claritin, Zyrtec or Benadryl. These drugs are known as antihistamines because they block a chemical substance that is released in response to an allergic reaction called histamine. Drugs that contain a medication called pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) are also effective for relieving a stuffy nose.
What is the strongest decongestant?
Oral Decongestants
Medications | Percentage of Pharmacists’ Votes |
---|---|
#1 Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) Most Pharmacist Votes | 55% |
#2 Claritin-D | 13% |
#3 Allegra-D | 9% |
#4 Sudafed PE (phenylephrine) | 8% |
What can doctors prescribe for congestion?
Prescription Medications for Colds or Flu
- Antibiotics.
- Antihistamines, Decongestants.
- Antiviral Medications.
- Cough Medicines.
- Nasal Steroids.
What is a good decongestant?
Our picks
- Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion Ultratabs.
- Best OTC sinus decongestant for a headache. Advil Sinus Congestion and Pain.
- Afrin No-Drip Severe Congestion.
- Little Remedies Decongestant Nose Drops.
- Sudafed PE Day and Night Sinus Pressure Tablets.
- Cabinet Nasal Decongestant Tablets.
- Mucinex Nightshift Cold and Flu Liquid.
What can I use instead of decongestant?
Alternatives to oral decongestants are available. In the drug realm, antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and loratadine (Claritin) can help with a stuffy nose are safe for the heart. Nasal sprays deliver a decongestant right where you need it.
Is Vicks VapoRub good for sinuses?
Hoecker, M.D. Vicks VapoRub — a topical ointment made of ingredients including camphor, eucalyptus oil and menthol that you rub on your throat and chest — doesn’t relieve nasal congestion. But the strong menthol odor of VapoRub may trick your brain, so you feel like you’re breathing through an unclogged nose.