The common cold is the most frequent human illness, and may be caused by several families of viruses, particularly the more than 100 serotypes of rhinoviruses. Inaccurate perceptions that antibiotics improve patient outcomes fuel the number of doctor visits and requests for antibiotics. The inappropriate use of antibiotics for minor, self-limiting, usually viral, upper-respiratory tract infections does not alter the course of the disease, and adds to the burden of antibiotic resistance. In addition, there is also no evidence to suggest that antibiotics prevent secondary bacterial complications following viral upper-respiratory tract infections. While most over-the-counter cold and flu remedies have no proven efficacy, they appear to attenuate the immune response to the infecting virus, and there is little doubt that appropriate symptomatic treatment can make the patient feel better. Therefore, symptomatic therapy remains the mainstay of common cold treatment. This article briefly reviews the components of cold and flu remedies, and provides a symptom-based assessment for the selection of appropriate over-the-counter medicine.

To cite this article: J Van Schoor (2013) Colds, flu and coughing: over-the-counter products for pharyngitis and tonsillitis, South African Family Practice, 55:4, 330-333,

To cite this article: J Van Schoor (2013) Colds, flu and coughing: a review of overthe-counter cold and flu medicines, South African Family Practice, 55:4, 334-336,

Symptoms suggestive of acute urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common reasons why women consult a health professional. Antimicrobial agents are usually prescribed for the treatment of symptomatic UTIs seen in clinical practice. However, the extensive use of antimicrobial agents for community-acquired UTIs has resulted in the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Increasing concern about the association between the use of antimicrobial agents and acquired antimicrobial resistance has highlighted the need for rational pharmacotherapy when treating UTIs. This article discusses currently recommended antimicrobial therapy for uncomplicated UTIs in women, UTIs during pregnancy and recurrent UTIs.

View related articlesCiting articles: 2 View citing articles Intranasal therapiesNasal congestion and rhinorrhoea in adults and older children may be managed with the intranasal administration