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# Cough and Cold Drugs ## Antihistamines * Block histamine * Used for: Allergies, hay fever (seasonal allergies), common cold - symptoms * **Adverse effects:** Anticholinergic effects * Not recommended for pregnancy, BPH or kidney disease. * Do not combine with alcohol, it will further dep...

# Cough and Cold Drugs ## Antihistamines * Block histamine * Used for: Allergies, hay fever (seasonal allergies), common cold - symptoms * **Adverse effects:** Anticholinergic effects * Not recommended for pregnancy, BPH or kidney disease. * Do not combine with alcohol, it will further depress the CNS * **Traditional (1st generation) - Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)** * More effective * Works peripherally and centrally * **Non-sedating (newer 2nd generation)** * Works peripherally * Longer duration of action * Not as effective * Should be paired with SABA for acute asthmatic attacks ## Nasal Decongestants * Relieve congestion by vasoconstriction in nasal passages * **Groups:** * **Anticholinergics** - Ipratropium (Atrovent) * **Adrenergics** - will constrict small arterioles * No rebound congestion, less potent * *Pseudoephedrine* - causes rebound congestion, potent * *Oxymetazoline (Ex Dristan)* * *Phenylephrine* * **Corticosteroids (inflammation)** - Budesonide (Rhinocort) * **Avoid caffeine**