ACHOO! Latest and greatest cold & flu advice.

Pain is a natural way our body tells us something is wrong, and a fever is our body fighting an infection. Paracetamol and ibuprofen come in many different forms to suit everyone (ie: tablets, caplets, liquid capsules, mini capsules, etc.). Regular Panadol are easy-to-swallow mini tablets that kick-in in over half an hour. Optizorb Caplets provide faster absorption compared to regular Panadol tablets, feeling the effect after 15 minutes. Lastly Panadol Rapid Caplets provide the fastest relief, although a larger pill to swallow. In some cases it may cause stomach reflux due to higher sodium.

2. EAR THERMOMETERS VS ORAL THERMOMETERS VS FOREHEAD THERMOMETERS

Sometimes picking the right thermometer comes down to how easy it is to use, but we tend to lean towards the ear thermometers as they are the most accurate. Some other things to consider is small children and people with breathing irregularities might have trouble keeping their mouth closed long enough to get an accurate reading from an oral thermometer. Due to the size of their ear canal and the fitting, we don’t usually recommend the ear thermometers for infants under 6 months. Forehead thermometers require no physical contact and are very popular for ease of use. External factors like wind, indoor heating, and sunlight can affect readings.

3. LIPOSOMAL TECHNOLOGY VS VITAMINS

Carbohydrates are often mistakenly labelled as the nemesis of Liposomal technology is another way to intake our vitamins. It removes the sodium and sweeteners, plus, the liposomes bypass the liver and deliver nutrients directly to the bloodstream for faster absorption. Liposomal stacks up better compared to traditional vitamins like tablets, capsules, and gummies. Although these are still valuable ways to consume vitamins, liposomal provides the highest absorption and effectiveness.  Liquid or gummy formation can be lifesavers for parents if children find pills hard to swallow. Either way, topping up on your essential vitamins before cold and fl u season is a great idea!

4. VAPORISERS VS HUMIDIFIERS

Vaporisers produce steam from boiling water whereas humidifiers release cool mist from cold water by evaporation. Both vaporisers and humidifiers can help ease discomfort from dry air and provide relief from cold fl u congestion. We can add essential oils or inhalants into some vaporisers as they contain fewer contaminants making them preferable for people prone to allergies. Humidifiers are sometimes safer for families with young children and pets because they don’t use boiling water, however, they will need regular cleaning.

 5. EFFERVESCENT VS SOLUBLE TABLET

Effervescent tablets dissolve into your liquid of choice, such as water or juice. Tablets as we know are swallowed whole. Both can absorb quite fast but overall it comes down to your own preferences. Effervescent’ s will dissolve evenly in a liquid which may settle in the tummy more evenly, causing less irritation. Plus, the extra intake of fluids can help offset dehydration. If the effervescent you are taking is an electrolyte you can most likely take it with other cold and fl u supplements or medication. Always consult your pharmacist if you’re unsure.

6. ALLERGIES OR FLU SYMPTOMS

A runny nose, sneezing or watery eyes are all symptoms accompanying colds or allergies. Some cold and flu medication already contain antihistamines along with other symptom relieving ingredients. If you take individual antihistamine tablets regularly, be careful when taking other medicines during the flu season as multiple antihistamines can cause unpleasant side effects. Drug free ways to help ease allergy like symptoms can include saline rinses, sprays or drops, humidifiers or vaporisers.

Consult one of our pharmacists so we can identify your needs.

7. LOZENGES VS COUGH DROPS

Most throat lozenges and cough drops are medicated, and sometimes the word is used interchangeably. Lozenges essentially provide prolonged relief by cooling and soothing the throat. Some lozenges also have antibacterial and/or anaesthetics properties to fight cold and fl u symptoms and throat related pain. Cough drops sometimes contain ingredients like eucalyptus oil or menthols to prevent excessive coughing and help with pain. Both products are very similar, but with subtle differences in the ingredients. Both help with coughing and sore throats.