The best cold remedies

When choosing medicines, it is inappropriate to be guided by advertising on TV. The manifestation of the first signs of a cold requires a visit to the clinic, following the instructions of the doctor. The best cold remedies of 2024 were named based on medical opinions, expert assessments, demand and customer reviews. The review will present effective antiviral, anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as a separate line of medicines for children. Reliable pharmaceutical companies will be named as help, as well as criteria for evaluating such drugs.

Remedy for colds which company is better to choose

One of the most common illnesses in the world is colds and flu. Self-medication is dangerous, as is buying drugs at random. The first thing that you need to pay attention to is the manufacturer, its reputation, indicators of the quality and effectiveness of the drugs produced. The experts got acquainted with the most popular companies, after which they selected the best of them:

• OJSC Senexi SAS / Pharmstandard-Leksredstva (Tamiflu) - several of the largest pharmaceutical manufacturers with joint activities. The group is part of the state import substitution program. The Certificate of Trust was awarded for high-quality, reliable drugs.
• JSC "Pharmstandard" (Arbidol) is a large pharmaceutical company in Russia, established in 2003. For several years he has been named the most influential drug manufacturer. More than 250 types of medicines are produced annually for various fields of medicine.
• Sandoz (Immunal) is today a large international pharmaceutical company engaged in the creation of biosimilars and quality generics. It was originally a Swiss company that began operations in 1886. The name has long become a brand associated with professionalism, premium quality.
• JSC "Biochemist" (Remantadin) is a Russian pharmaceutical company founded in 2002 in Saransk. Now it is at the stage of growth and development, developing different groups of medicines in the form of tablets, capsules, suppositories, creams, ointments and solutions for injections.
• Richard Bittner AG (Aflubin) is an Austrian pharmaceutical company known in many countries of the world, founded in 1954. The main goal of the manufacturer is the integration of reliable and highly effective medicines into modern clinical practice.
• JSC "Tatkhimfarmpreparaty" (Ibuprofen) is a Russian pharmaceutical company, one of the twenty largest drug manufacturers in the country. She made a great contribution to the development of the health care system and medicine, including through the production of suture surgical materials.
• Sopharma JSC (Indomethacin) is a Bulgarian manufacturer of various medicines. Acts as an investor in various programs and projects to improve the quality of human life. Founded in 1933. In addition to medicines, the price list is supplemented with cosmetic and hygiene products.
• Laboratorios Menarini S.A. (Nimesil) is a group of pharmaceutical companies from Spain, one of the top 15 best drug manufacturers in this country.In addition to producing a huge range of medicines, the company promotes innovative projects that generate discoveries in the field of medicine.
• Nizhpharm (Tsefekon) is the oldest Russian holding company founded in 1919, which has been a part of the international concern STADA Arzneimittel AG since 2004. The product portfolio shows more than 100 names belonging to 30 pharmacological groups.
• Reckitt benckiser (Nurofen for children) – British company founded in 1999. It is engaged in a diversified activity - it produces household goods, hygiene and care products, medicines to maintain health. The portfolio includes 19 popular brands that occupy leading positions in their segment.
• Materia Medica Holding (Anaferon Detsky) is a research and production company founded in 2015 in Russia. In the country, it is so far the only manufacturer of drugs of a new class based on antibodies to endogenous regulators. All this is due to its own scientific base and fundamental developments.
• UPSA SAS (Fervex for Children) is a French pharmaceutical company that develops modern, safe, but at the same time effective medicines for different areas of clinical practice. Most of the products are supplied to the Russian market today.

Cold remedy rating

The pharmaceutical market offers a huge assortment of different groups of cold medicines. These can be specialized remedies for a viral or bacterial nature, universal options and those that relieve symptoms. To make it easier to choose one of the list of effective and top medicines, experts advise you to rely on several criteria:

• Composition - active ingredients, their characteristics;
• Action - anti-inflammatory, anti-cold, fever reduction, etc .;
• Release form - tablets, capsules, liquid forms, etc.;
• Result - performance, duration of the effect;
• Comfort - the rules of course treatment, convenience;
• Safety - the nature of the components, their toxicity;
• Special instructions - contraindications, risks of side effects;
• Compatibility - with which drugs it is combined, with which not;
• Restrictions - age, pregnancy, lactation, etc.

Based on these parameters, the best cold remedies in each group and segment were selected. The experts relied on the opinions of leading pediatricians and therapists, positive experience of therapy, value for money. And thanks to the reviews, it was possible to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each nominee in the ranking.

The best cough remedies

Best Antivirals for Colds

If the doctor has diagnosed ARVI - an acute respiratory viral infection, first of all, an antiviral agent for colds is selected for it. The active substance in its composition quickly recognizes the pathogenic microorganism, blocks its vital activity, the ability to reproduce. But for maximum results, it is important to use such a medicine on the first day of the onset of symptoms. Based on the experience of doctors and their patients, real feedback and the level of demand, the top offers in this rating category were determined.

Tamiflu

A monopreparation with a highly effective component of antiviral action - oseltamivir. After penetrating into the body, it finds a pathogen, blocks the enzyme of aggression neuraminidase. This prevents the virus from spreading to new cells. Based on this, Tamiflu is called a pathogenetic treatment that is appropriate mainly for influenza. Doctors prescribe it for acute respiratory viral infections in the epidemic season, when the patient from the first days is faced with pronounced symptoms - fever, catarrhal manifestations in the nasopharynx, loss of strength, muscle pain, etc. It is also appropriate for specific prevention of influenza.The tablets are taken regardless of food no longer than 5 days, and most importantly, no later than the second day after the appearance of warning signs.

Advantages

• Effectiveness recognized by the international clinical community;
• Short course;
• Increasing the body's resistance to viruses;
• The onset of the effect within 30 minutes after taking the pill;
• Simple application method;
• Several forms of release;
• Prevention of pulmonary complications.

disadvantages

• Contraindications, side effects;
• Price.

Tamiflu is recommended by WHO as it has clinically proven efficacy. It is allowed for use during pregnancy, lactation, for the treatment of children. But before that, it is important to familiarize yourself with the contraindications, non-compliance with which leads to undesirable symptoms. Minus buyers mark the price above average.

Arbidol

This inexpensive antiviral drug is based on the active ingredient umifenovir. It is effective not only for acute respiratory viral infections and strains A and B, but also for rotavirus diarrhea. In recent years, Arbidol has been used as an immunostimulant, since its correct use increases the body's resistance to influenza by increasing the production of interferon. The manufacturer offers several forms of release - powder for suspension, tablets, capsules. It is allowed to treat an existing disease, but preferably on the first day of manifestation, and to prevent subsequent infections. Treatment of children aged 2 years and older is acceptable.

Advantages

• Several forms for children and adults;
• Suppression of the viral pathogen;
• Immunostimulating effect;
• The minimum list of side effects;
• Pleasant taste, smell;
• Inexpensive.

disadvantages

• Not for all virus strains;
• The likelihood of developing an allergic reaction.

Despite the fact that Arbidol has not been 100% clinically proven to be effective, it is widely used in the treatment of both adult patients and children. Patients approve of the composition, minimal risks of complications, increased immunity. The downside is that Arbidol is only appropriate for colds against the background of strains A and B, some patients are allergic to the composition.

Immunal

Brand medicine with immunomodulatory, antiviral action based on a natural component - Echinacea purpurea extract. It was clinically found that the chemical formula of the plant contains vitamins A, C, E, essential oils and antioxidants, several useful microelements. All of them provoke a nonspecific reaction of the body, on the basis of which it is possible to overcome the ARVI, influenza and herpes viruses. You can use tablets, solution, preferably separately from meals. The course of use, the recommended dosages largely depend on the age of the patient. The solution is allowed for children from 1 year old, tablets - from 4 years old.

Advantages

• Vegetable base;
• Easy application;
• Stimulation of immunity;
• Several forms of release to choose from;
• Effectiveness against various viruses at the initial stage;
• Safety, low toxicity.

disadvantages

• Price;
• Allergy risks.

There are mostly positive reviews about the use of Immunal. They approve of its natural basis, admissibility from 1 year, natural increase in immunity. The only downside is the likelihood of allergies in case of hypersensitivity to the plant, as well as the price, which is several times higher than the standard echinacea tincture.

Remantadine

Such an inexpensive cold remedy for an adult patient can be prescribed in the first days of the onset of symptoms. The well-known antiviral agent is based on a component of an adamantane derivative with an antioxidant, antitoxic effect, which was widely used in Russia back in 1977. After entering the body, the substance disrupts the vital activity of the pathogen, prevents its reproduction. Doctors also prefer to use synthetic medication for the prevention of colds.To prevent side effects, tablets are taken after meals with plenty of water. There is a form of syrup for the treatment of young children from 1 year old.

Advantages

• Several forms - for adults, children;
• Large list of indications;
• Minimal risks of side effects;
• Quick relief when taken on time;
• Preventive use tolerance;
• Cheapness.

disadvantages

• Bitter taste;
• Effective against several strains, not all.

The manufacturer took into account all the features of different ages, so he offered several forms of Remantadine with clearly prescribed dosages in the instructions. The degree of toxicity is average, it is justified by the cost, good performance indicators. But it must be borne in mind that the active substance acts against several strains. As a disadvantage, many buyers noted a bitter taste that complicates treatment.

Aflubin

The homeopathic remedy for colds and flu Aflubin completes the list of antiviral medicines. The plant base allows it to be prescribed to patients at any age and to children from 1 year old. For this, the manufacturer offers 2 forms of release - lozenges, drops. Also, several types of the drug are presented - the classic one for combating influenza, Aflubin Broncho to relieve cough and expectorant effect, Aflubin Nase in the form of a nasal spray for allergic or inflammatory rhinitis. The composition contains organic substances - bryony, pharmacy aconite, gentian, lactic acid and iron phosphate. The only contraindication is hypersensitivity.

Advantages

• Safe composition;
• Minimal toxicity;
• Several types, release forms;
• Suitable for small children;
• For treatment, prevention.

disadvantages

• Liquid alcohol;
• Price.

Aflubin is widely used by doctors for its safety, organic base. The mild, complex effect favors pediatric use. Buyers give good marks for the presence of several types and forms to choose from, the absence of contraindications and risks. The only downside is the price, the presence of alcohol in the solution.

The best anti-inflammatories for colds

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the form of tablets, capsules, solutions and powders are widely used in the treatment of various diseases, including colds. Experts analyzed 15 categories of such drugs, how to treat colds, among them time-tested and new generation remedies. Medical practice, patient reviews helped to determine the most effective, high-quality medicines.

Ibuprofen

An affordable product with a multidisciplinary principle of action. The main substance in the composition is of the same name - ibuprofen. It belongs to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory components. After admission, an analgesic, antipyretic effect is noted, the suppression of all symptoms of the common cold. At the same time, you do not need to wait for the tablets to normalize the temperature limit, they are only needed to knock down a high indicator. Ibuprofen is indicated for short-term oral administration, no longer than 5 days and strictly after the number of hours specified in the instructions. A separate form is produced for children - syrup. The risks of developing side effects are minimal; in medical practice, they are very rare.

Advantages

• Elimination of headache, muscle, joint pain;
• Antipyretic action;
• Let's take pills from 6 years old;
• Rapid relief of the clinical picture;
• Several forms of release;
• Inexpensive.

disadvantages

• For colds with fever and pain only;
• Negative effect on the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract.

Ibuprofen should be used only in combination with other medicines, since it does not eliminate cough, runny nose and other manifestations of the flu, but only suppresses pain, reduces fever.

Buyers in reviews praise the performance, availability, and the absence of strict contraindications. The downside is that taking Ibuprofen affects the digestion, blood vessels and heart, does not cure the root cause.

Indomethacin

Compared to the previous nominee, Indomethacin begins to act much faster, if not instantly. Its active composition guarantees a combined effect - suppression of those enzymes that provoke capillary permeability, pain, fever. On sale you can see several options - tablets, suppositories, gel, ointment. They can be used for a short time (up to 10 days) so as not to encounter side symptoms. The age limit due to a large list of possible negative manifestations is from 14 years. The drug is strictly prohibited in the third trimester of pregnancy, during lactation. With a wide range of indications, tablets are sold over the counter and inexpensively.

Advantages

• Instant result;
• Convenient way of receiving;
• Several forms;
• Pain relieving effect;
• Inexpensive.

disadvantages

• Contraindications;
• A large list of possible side effects.

In the reviews, doctors praise the quick-acting cold remedy for its pronounced anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect, which occurs a few minutes after taking the pills. Buyers approve of a large list of indications, an affordable price. The only downside is the presence of strict contraindications, the risks of a negative reaction of the body to therapy.

Best throat sprays

Nimesil

An anti-inflammatory drug widely used in various fields of medicine. But most often it is prescribed as an emergency aid for influenza, acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections. The main substance nimesulide easily copes with the inflammatory process of any genesis, in addition, it has a strong analgesic effect. Unlike previous nominees in the NSAID category, Nimesil not only suppresses enzymes that provoke inflammation, but also protects the mucous membrane of the digestive system. This means that you can use it for a long time in advanced cases. Available in powder form, it is diluted in a small amount of water and taken orally. In small doses, doctors allow admission from 2 years of age, which distinguishes Nimesil from competitors.

Advantages

• Powerful effect;
• Protection of the digestive tract from negative influences;
• Minimum age restrictions;
• Convenient form for reception;
• Pleasant taste;
• Long-term treatment admissibility;
• Inexpensive.

disadvantages

• Possible side effects;
• It is taken only after meals.

Powder is used in combination with other medicines, since it does not eliminate the cause of the disease, only affects the symptoms. The great demand is due to the inexpensive price, a large list of indications, quick and pronounced help for pain, fever. The downside is contraindications, side effects, as well as the importance of taking the solution only after eating.

Tsefekon-N

The list of anti-inflammatory medicines is completed by Cefekon-N in the form of rectal suppositories. The main ingredient in the composition is naproxen, which has been effective for many years. Caffeine and salicylamide are added to it, thanks to this formula, candles relieve pain, lower body temperature. Caffeine also eliminates drowsiness, invigorates, relieves spasms of smooth muscles, suppresses signs of a primary allergic reaction in ARVI. It is advisable to inject suppositories deep in the morning after bowel movement, after which you need to lie down for half an hour. On average, a course of home therapy can last 3 days, longer - only according to the doctor's indications. Cefekon-N is intended only for adult patients.

Advantages

• Safety for the digestive tract;
• Triple effect - against pain, fever, spasms;
• Decrease in daytime sleepiness;
• Prolonged action;
• Inexpensive.

disadvantages

• Mode of application;
• The presence of contraindications.

Tsefekon-N is actively prescribed by doctors to those patients who do not want a load on the digestive tract. That is, the rectal method of administration may be considered an advantage for some, while for others it may be inconvenient.

The suppositories received high marks for their speed, suppression of cold symptoms. The downside is that they cannot be used for hypertension, renal failure, insomnia, angle-closure glaucoma.

Best Cold Remedies for Kids

The body of an adult and a child is based on the same biochemical and physiological principles. But for a small immature organism, drug manufacturers are developing convenient forms, safe dosages, a minimum level of toxicity with a high degree of digestibility. Before naming the best cold medicines for children, experts analyzed the opinions of leading pediatricians, customer reviews, value for money.

Nurofen for children

The most popular cold and flu remedy for children with a safe, non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory and mild formulation. The main substance is ibuprofen, which was mentioned earlier. It is indicated for babies suffering from fever and fever, muscle pain, catarrhal symptoms in the throat, ARVI, ARI. It is produced in the form of a suspension with a pleasant fruity taste and smell. The instructions prescribe the optimal dosages, taking into account age and body weight. The age limit is from 3 months. After taking the syrup, relief occurs within 15-30 minutes, the maximum result is observed after 2-3 hours, and lasts up to 8 hours. Such treatment is unacceptable for severe diseases of the heart, kidneys, liver, hemophilia, and exacerbation of an ulcer.

Advantages

• Suppression of any kind of pain;
• Rapid temperature drop;
• Admissibility from 3 months;
• Child-proof cover;
• Pleasant taste, smell;
• Good portability;
• Prolonged action.

disadvantages

• List of side effects;
• May be addictive.

Most parents in the event of a fever and pain of a different nature in a child are saved by Nurofen. Over 80% of buyers leave approving reviews, noting the mild action, good tolerance, convenient bottle and method of application. The downside is the likelihood of side effects, although it is low, and the fact that frequent use of syrup sometimes leads to addiction.

Anaferon Children's

An effective homeopathic remedy for colds and rhinitis for the treatment of young patients with the main components in the composition - antibodies to interferon gamma. They show two effects after application - immunostimulating, antiviral. Thanks to this, the spread of the virus through the cells of the body stops, and the process of resistance to pathogens starts. The main condition under which Anaferon will be useful is timely admission immediately after the manifestation of the first alarming symptoms and strict adherence to the instructions. Otherwise, therapy will not work. Available in the form of drops and tablets, depending on the age of the patient. Age restrictions - from the first month of a baby's life.

Advantages

• Homeopathic basis;
• Long-term use;
• Allergy, asthma safety;
• Convenient shape;
• No contraindications, side effects;
• For treatment, prevention.

disadvantages

• Price;
• Effectiveness only with timely application.

Children's doctors prescribe Anaferon for various viruses - herpes, influenza or parainfluenza, enterovirus, rotavirus, etc. Since we are talking about a homeopathic basis, it is permissible from the first months of life and contraindications to other NSAIDs. Buyers in positive reviews note the convenient form, the absence of restrictions and risks. The downside is that Anaferon will not help with an advanced form of the disease and its price.

Fervex for children

Multicomponent preparation for children, recommended from 6 to 15 years old.In its composition you can see paracetamol, ascorbic acid, pheniramine maleate. It is produced in the form of a granular powder that is diluted in water and drunk warm. Paracetamol lowers the temperature in case of fever, relieves pain. Pheniramine maleate acts as an anti-inflammatory substance that reduces the response to pathogens in the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract. Vitamin C is designed to strengthen the immune system, the forces of resistance to subsequent risks of diseases. You can take the solution no more often than every 4 hours, no longer than 3 days in a row.

Advantages

• Convenient form for admission;
• Three flavors to choose from;
• Reliable sachets;
• The possibility of a piece purchase;
• Quick help;
• For the child's body only.

disadvantages

• May cause drowsiness;
• Sugar bag with lemon flavor.

Fervex should be used immediately after the onset of symptoms of the disease. Most often buyers prefer just such a medicine because of the piece sale, convenient form with pleasant different tastes, and the speed of the multicomponent composition. Some noted drowsiness after several doses of the solution. The lemon version contains sugar, which is unacceptable for children with diabetes.

Which cold remedy is better to buy

Treatment of ARVI requires the mandatory intake of non-steroidal antiviral drugs; with ARI, anti-inflammatory drugs are often enough. On sale you can see numerous powders for colds, tablets, suppositories, drops for all ages and taking into account the different characteristics of the human body. It is difficult to suggest one thing to buy for home therapy, but you can summarize the following comparative analysis in the review:

• The best antipyretic agent - Tsefekon-N;
• Fast relief from fever - Fervex for children;
• The best stimulant of the immune system for the prevention of colds - Immunal;
• The popular choice, the most bought drug - Nurofen for children;
• The best antiviral effect is Tamiflu;
• Cheap remedy recommended by doctors - Remantadine;
• The safest herbal preparation for ARVI and ARI is Aflubin.

It is possible to cure a cold disease only with an integrated approach, using several medicines of different principles of action. Nasal congestion, fever, pain are eliminated by anti-inflammatory pills, antiviral drugs are fighting the pathogen. The top ranking of 2024 helped narrow the search, the rest of the instructions are received from the doctor.