What medicine can and cannot do
Medicines can ease aches, a headache and a fever. They do not cure a cold or flu, and antibiotics do nothing for either, because they are caused by viruses.
Taking nothing is fine if he is coping. Medicine is for comfort, not for speeding things up.
The golden rules
- Read the pack, every time, including the dose and the gap between doses.
- Never double up. Many cold and flu remedies already contain paracetamol.
- Do not give aspirin to children or teenagers.
- Ask a pharmacist if he takes other medicines or has a long-term condition.
- Stop and get advice if anything makes him feel worse.
Keep a medicine log
A note by the bed saves arguments and accidents.
- Name of the medicine.
- Dose taken.
- Time taken.
- Earliest time the next dose is safe.
See the survival tip on documenting everything for a simple layout.
Throat, nose and cough
Lozenges, a blocked-nose spray or a warm drink can help specific symptoms. Honey in a warm drink soothes a cough for most adults.
Check the label for how long a spray can be used, because some should only be used for a few days.
Ask the pharmacist
A pharmacist is the best-value help in the house, and no appointment is needed. They can advise on which products suit him, what is safe alongside his usual medicines, and whether a symptom needs a doctor.
He's got a cold, aches and a temperature. He takes (his usual medicine). What can he safely have?
When medicine is not the answer
If he has trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, a rash that does not fade when pressed, or symptoms that are getting worse, he needs a medical opinion, not another tablet.
Call NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency.
Common questions
Can he take two different cold remedies?
Be careful. Many contain the same ingredients, including paracetamol. Check the labels or ask a pharmacist before combining them.
Do antibiotics help?
Not for a cold or flu, which are caused by viruses. They are only for bacterial infections, and only on a doctor's advice.
What about children in the house?
Keep all medicines out of reach, and do not share his tablets with anyone else. Never give aspirin to under-16s.
A quick recap
- Read the pack and the dose.
- Never double up on paracetamol.
- Keep a log of every dose.
- Ask a pharmacist when unsure.
- Get medical help for warning signs, not another tablet.
Reality check
This is general information, not medical advice. If you are unsure what he can take, ask a pharmacist or call NHS 111. Always follow the pack.