Runny noses are annoying. It doesn’t matter if you are a kid in school, a grown-up at work, or an athlete trying to get a solid night’s rest before a game, a runny nose interferes with all that is good and right.
Whether it’s running because you have a cold or because it’s allergy season, breathing, talking, playing, sleeping, eating and socializing can all become frustrating activities when the nose is not at peak performance.
There are runny noses that involve congestion and coughing. There are runny noses that involve throat drainage. There are runny noses that get worse at night when we’re lying down. So, clearly, choosing the best medicine for a runny nose has a whole lot to do with why it’s running.
The most common causes of a runny nose are a cold or allergies, two very different types of conditions, but ones that result in many of the same symptoms. In our top 10 product guide we’ve made sure to include best medicine for runny nose and best cold medicine for runny nose to address each common cause.
Why Does It Run?
Our nasal tissues routinely produce mucus to keep our nasal passages moist and functioning well. In fact, along with the stomach and intestines which also produce mucus, they typically generate 1-2 quarts a day that not only moisten tissue but also help trap any bacteria or viruses before they get into our bloodstream and cause infection.
But when something like a cold virus or pollen breaks through the mucus barrier and irritates the nasal tissues excessively, mucus production goes into overdrive in an attempt to get rid of the intruder. The excess has to go somewhere – and the result is a “runny” nose.
At other times, the problem is not that we’re producing too much mucus, but that our body is not clearing it away like usual. Swallowing problems related to conditions like gastric reflux, for example, may cause a buildup of mucus in the throat that can only escape out the nose.
To help our noses get back to normal, we can first identify the irritant and escape it to prevent symptoms from worsening. If it’s pollen, spend as much time as possible indoors or wear a filtering mask when outside. If it’s smoke, move away from the person who is smoking. If your runny nose is accompanied by other cold symptoms, drink lots of liquids and get rest. After escaping the irritants, then we can use a variety of products that will reduce symptoms further.
Best Medicine for Runny Nose Reviews
1. Alka-Seltzer Plus Severe Cold & Flu Effervescent
When the good folks at Alka-Seltzer went from making fizzy medicine that made tummies feel better to making fizzy medicine that helps with colds and flu, they hit it out of the park.
Review
The Alka-Seltzer Plus Severe Cold & Flu product that is #1 on our list is the single highest rated product among consumers for the common cold and all the annoying symptoms that go along with it – including runny nose.
The plop-plop, fizz-fizz tablets – used by dissolving them in a few ounces of cool water – contain acetaminophen for aches and pains, an antihistamine to stop the runny nose and a powerful cough suppressant. In addition, the other ingredients reduce fever and decrease congestion.
The tablets have a great citrus flavor and because they are, after all, an Alka-Seltzer product, any symptoms of nausea or upset stomach are helped too, all in 5-10 minutes.
We do want to emphasize that this is a product that treats many symptoms so if your runny nose is the result of pollen or other irritants rather than the common cold, it is best to choose another one of the options in our top 10 designed specifically for allergies.
Pros:
- Multi-symptom relief
- Pleasant citrusy taste
- Helps aid an upset stomach
Con:
- May not help with runny nose caused by allergies
2. Alavert 24-Hour Non-Drowsy Allergy Relief
The number 2 product in our top 10 is specifically formulated to treat the symptoms that result from allergies, including runny nose.
Review
The Alavert brand is well-known among allergy sufferers who have a choice of several Alavert products but this item is a little different since it comes in a tablet that dissolves on your tongue. No water needed!
Instead of having to wait for more traditional medicines in pill form to kick in over the course of 20-30 minutes, this product takes effect almost immediately and has a pleasant, minty taste, making it a crowd favorite among parents since it can be used in children as young as six years old.
Aside from your runny nose, this Alavert product also gives 24-hour relief for allergy-related watery eyes, sneezing and itchy throat. Great for travel, the dissolving tablets come in individual, tear-apart packets that can be thrown in a purse, pocket or car.
Pros:
- Fast-acting
- Dissolves quickly for easy administration
- Comes in individual, travel-friendly packets
Con:
- The taste may not appeal to everyone
3. Boiron Homeopathic Medicine Coldcalm Tablets
Another top 3 product that treats runny noses caused by the common cold, Boiron Coldcalm tablets are homeopathic meaning they are all-natural with none of the side effects that sometimes accompany other cold or allergy products such as jitteriness or drowsiness.
Review
Appropriate and safe for everyone ages 3 and up, these tablets are placed under the tongue every 15 minutes for the first hour of treatment, then continued every two hours for the duration of symptoms.
This rather intense schedule is the one drawback cited by most consumers, but the majority of those preferring an all-natural product felt the benefits outweighed the slight inconvenience.
Though the tablets have no taste, they can be dissolved in a tablespoon or two of water to make dosing easier for children. Coldcalm works on a runny nose as well as on other cold symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion and sore throat, making it a great all around cold medicine.
Pros:
- All-natural formula
- Multipurpose
- Safe and effective for children above three
Con:
- Slightly complicated treatment process
4. Vicks NyQuil LiquiCaps
Vicks is an ever-trusted brand for flu relief, so it isn’t a wonder why their NyQuil LiquiCaps made our list. It is a remedy that offers multi-symptom relief, including headache, sore throat, minor body aches, fever, and of course, runny nose.
Review
Cough, sore throat, and runny nose often become heightened after sundown, which may prevent the much-needed restful sleep a sick person needs to get better. The Vicks NyQuil LiquiCaps is the perfect nighttime flu remedy because it keeps symptoms at bay to help your body rest and recover at night.
One of the best things about the Vicks NyQuil is that it is fast-acting. There is no need to wait around for too long for the medicine to take effect. Instead, it takes effect almost instantly, allowing you to doze off into dreamland and let the formula work its magic on your body.
The Vicks NyQuil provides multi-symptom relief, so a cough, headache, and sore throat, as well as runny nose and fever, are addressed effectively and efficiently. It also provides excellent daytime relief, acting quickly and letting you perform your daily duties well despite the flu.
Pros:
- By the ever-trusted brand Vicks
- Fast-acting formula
- Great daytime and nighttime flu remedy
Con:
- Some may find it difficult to swallow
5. Theraflu Multi-Symptom Severe Cold and Severe Cold Cough Combo
Theraflu’s Multi-Symptom Severe Cough & Cold Combo holds six “magical” daytime flu relief packets to reduce or even get rid of a host of flu symptoms. From cough and colds to body aches, headache, runny nose, and fever, it has got you covered on all bases.
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Drowsiness is one of the biggest issues when it comes to daytime flu relief meds. A lot of over-the-counter flu medications cause drowsiness, which should not be a problem when you take them at night. How about during the day, though?
The Theraflu Multi-Symptom Combo is the ideal flu remedy for when you need to perform well enough to be productive despite being ill. The fast-acting combination provides close-to-instant relief, reducing those cold symptoms that keep you from effectively taking on your daily activities.
Theraflu Cold Relief packets are easy to use, too. Simply dissolve the contents of the packet in hot or warm water and have a sip. There’s really nothing to it. Plus, there is a coolness that spreads out and refreshes your airways as you drink the warm healing liquid.
Stock up on these affordable OTC flu medications at home and see how fast it helps you recover. It is a fantastic nighttime remedy, too, giving you the rest you need, free of symptoms that tend to lead to midnight wakings.
Pros:
- Daytime and nighttime flu remedy
- Non-drowse formula
- Fast-acting flu medication
- Multi-symptom relief
Con:
- The taste may not be to some people’s liking
6. Amazon Basic Care Maximum Strength Mucus
Amazon Basic Care delivers powerful and effective flu healing with its Maximum Strength Mucus. It boasts strong expectorant qualities that help loosen up bothersome mucus so that you may expel them more easily from your system.
Review
The Basic Care’s Maximum Strength Mucus contains powerful anti-flu ingredients, such as guaifenesin and dextromethorphan HBr, for maximum mucus expulsion.
It holds similarities to the Mucinex Maximum Strength in terms of active ingredients, which is great, given the efficacy of the said medication.
Dextromethorphan HBr (60mg) and guaifenesin (1,200mg) work in tandem to expel the most stubborn mucus from your airways. Not even the toughest cold stands a chance against it!
Since it flushes chest-and-sinus-congestion-causing mucus out of your system, expect the several minutes after taking the medication to be a productive coughing affair. That said, by the time the coughing eases, your air passageways should be a lot clearer than before.
Pros:
- Powerful expectorant
- Inexpensive
- Provides multi-symptom relief
- Clears chest and sinus congestion
Con:
- Bitter-tasting
- Too strong for some
7. Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs
Allowing the body to get rid of flu naturally is the not-so-secret secret behind Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Swab’s success. If you are leaning towards natural healing for your cold, these nasal swabs by Zicam should take you in the right direction.
Review
Homeopathic solutions for flu-like symptoms are effective, and Zicam’s nasal swabs are a testament to that. Though these aren’t just your regular nasal swabs, they deliver a host of other perks for nipping that cold virus in the bud.
This formula is best used at the onset of flu-like symptoms. It is a great homeopathic cold symptom remedy and is super gentle. You will barely feel anything when the medication is used correctly.
There is also a cooling menthol effect that spreads across your air passageways upon administration. This gives you a soothing eucalyptus smell that helps alleviate cold symptoms faster.
It addresses runny nose, sinus and chest congestions, and a range of other symptoms associated with your illness. However, it’s worth mentioning that this medication’s efficacy is tied to how early you take it. Where homeopathic remedies are concerned, the earlier is usually the better.
Pros:
- Nasal swabs for short colds
- Fast-acting
- Multi-symptom relief
- Gentle and easy to use
- Provides a cooling effect
Cons:
- Might not be as effective when taken late
- Homeopathic remedies have their limits
8. Genexa Flu Fix
Another homeopathic remedy makes its way to our list in the form of Genexa Flu Fix. It is made with all-organic ingredients to address the range of flu symptoms, including fever, cough and cold, runny nose, headache, body aches, chest and sinus congestion, sneezing, and fever.
Review
The Genexa Flu Fix is a non-drowse medicine, making it an excellent daytime remedy. Like the other OTC flu medications on this list, it is made with a safe and effective formula that has no known drug interactions.
Another thing to give you peace of mind is the fact that this medication is physician-formulated, specifically by a homeopathic physician. Thus, you can be confident about its safety and efficacy. It contains preservatives or artificial sweeteners, parabens, artificial coloring, common allergens, or artificial flavors.
The all-natural Genexa Flux Fix is also lactose- and gluten-free and non-GMO, a great decision for your health, however you put it. Plus, it tickles the taste buds with its delicious acai berry flavor. No doubt, it is a definite must-add to your medicine cabinet!
Pros:
- Homeopathic remedy
- Multi-symptom relief
- Fast-acting
- Non-drowse
Con:
- The taste might not be to everyone’s liking
What To Consider When Buying Medicine for Runny Nose
During cold and flu season it can be a challenge to find the right medication to help you get back on your feet. The pharmacy aisle has so many options and it can be hard to know where to start. If you do need to look for medication, here are some tips to help you navigate the cough and cold aisle this season.
1. Labels
Maximum strength does not always mean the medicine is better. Maximum strength cough and cold products combine many medications into one. You may not even need some of these medications based on your symptoms.
As you start your search, think about what is bothering you the most. Is it a headache? A stuffy nose? A cough? Your symptoms are the first clue toward picking out the right medication.
2. Medicines Do Not Always Mix
Many cough and cold medications interact with other over-the-counter and prescription medicines you may be taking. Medications that are used for thinning the blood, high blood pressure, depression or anxiety, pain, sleep, glaucoma, and many more can interact with cough and cold medicine.
Certain medical conditions can also be a reason to avoid medication. Before purchasing, you should always read the “Warnings” and “Ask your doctor or pharmacist” sections on the Drug Facts panel.
3. Directions
Just like tip number one, more is not always better. Taking too much of a non-prescription or prescription medication can be dangerous. Be sure to take the medication exactly as described in the Drug Facts panel.
Keep track of your dose time and how much you took to avoid going over the recommended daily limits. Only use the medication for the amount of days stated on the label. Using it longer or more often may raise your risk of having side effects.
4. Children and Adults Have Different Choices
Age is an important factor for selecting a medication. Many cough and cold products are only approved for adults. The products that are specifically for infants or children often contain different medicines than those for adults, or different strengths of a similar medication.
Adult strength products should not be given to children under the age of 12 without speaking to a doctor first. Even some adults may need lower doses of medication depending on their age, medications, or other medical conditions.
Check the Drug Facts panel to be sure the product you are considering is age-appropriate.
5. Deciding if You Need to Contact the Doctor
There are some reasons to seek medical advice before treating your illness at home. Call your doctor before you start treatment if you have:
- a fever above 101.5
- shortness of breath
- chest pain
- thick sputum that is yellow, green, or tan
- asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or heart failure
- a child under the age of six
- a weakened immune system from a condition or medication
If your symptoms last more than seven days or you are not getting better, you should reach out to your doctor for advice.
There may be a lot of options to choose from at the pharmacy but remember that you are not alone. Your local pharmacist is an excellent resource to help you select a safe medication that meets your needs.
We encourage you to visit us at the pharmacy counter or reach out over the phone with any questions you have before starting a new medication. Your pharmacist’s goal is to help you feel better as soon as possible in the safest way possible.
Medicine for Runny Nose FAQs
1. What is the best medication for drying up a runny nose?
The above-mentioned medications are ideal remedies for a runny nose and other common cold and flu symptoms. Antihistamines and cold medications that double as antihistamines are particularly effective because they specifically target sneezing, itching, sniffling, and watery eyes.
2. How long does a runny nose usually last?
Generally, a runny nose may last for two to three days, but it can go on for two weeks in some cases. It is normal for mucus to be this stubborn in some individuals, and it doesn’t necessarily mean antibiotics are in order.
Still, if symptoms last for more than a week, it would be a good idea to schedule a doctor’s visit.
3. What could be the reason your runny nose isn’t stopping?
A runny nose that just refuses to dry up could be the result of an underlying infection. However, it can sometimes be a common occurrence for some, especially those suffering from conditions like vasomotor rhinitis or nonallergic rhinitis.
4. What are the stages of a runny nose?
A stuffy or runny nose is typically a symptom of the flu or common cold. It usually lasts no more than 10 days, but it can last longer for those whose conditions exacerbate the symptom.
After the cold’s incubation period, symptoms appear (including a runny nose). You then go into remission and then recovery.
5. Why do our noses run when we get sick?
Our body produces a substance called histamine to protect us from the cold virus. This results in protective inflammation that comes with it an increase in mucus production in the nasal cavity.
Best Cure for Runny Nose
The Alka-Seltzer Plus Severe Cold & Flu Effervescent has this in the bag for a few good reasons: multi-symptom relief, pleasant taste (a bit citrusy), and ability to aid with an upset stomach.
These are the trio of qualities that set this medicine apart from the rest of the pack and landed it in the number one position as the best medicine for runny nose.