Testing Item for Pharmacists (Cold and Cough)

Relief for Common Symptoms
of Colds and Cough

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
Drink extra water and fluids.
U
 se a cool mist vaporizer or saline
nasal spray to relieve congestion.

SPECIFIC MEDICINES
Fever or aches:

Ear pain:

F
 or sore throats in older children
and adults, use ice chips or lozenges.
U
 se honey to relieve cough.
Do not give honey to an infant
younger than 1.

Sore throat:

Congestion:

Use medicines according to the package instructions
or as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Stop
the medication when the symptoms get better.

FOR CHILDREN YOUNGER THAN FOUR YEARS OLD
Do not use over-the-counter cough and cold medicine in children younger than four years old
unless directed by your doctor. Overuse and misuse of these medicines can result in serious
and potentially life-threatening side effects. To relieve a stuffy nose, parents can use:
a rubber suction bulb
nose saline drops
a clean humidifier
a cool mist vaporizer

Call your doctor if the illness has not improved in a few
days or if symptoms are severe or unusual.
To learn more about antibiotic prescribing and use,
visit www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use.