Since the common cold is a viral infection, antibiotics have no effect in fighting it. This is because antibiotics destroy bacteria, not viruses. Despite this fact, they have been routinely prescribed for numerous cases of most infections. Antiviral drugs, on the other hand, are a type of medication developed specifically to target a particular virus or group of viruses. They usually do not destroy a pathogen, but stop its ability to develop. Unfortunately, to date, no effective drugs of this type exist that would be effective in fighting this disease.

The available pharmaceuticals are only able to treat the symptoms of the common cold. They range from painkillers to cough syrups and inhalers. Saline nasal drops or sprays are a good way to keep nasal passages in good condition. You can buy some of these products over‑the‑counter.

Many symptoms of the common cold can be eased by adjusting your surroundings. Most doctors recommend warm liquids, such as tea or lemon water. Gargling salt water may soothe a sore throat. Hot soups have long been recommended as a cold remedy. Particularly, spicy soups and other dishes, if spicy enough to make your eyes water, will have the same effect on your nose. Aromatherapy experts advise that eucalyptus or peppermint oils may be rubbed on the body or inhaled to provide the relief of the common cold symptoms. Another ingredient popular in fighting the cold is honey, which may be helpful for coughs in adults and children when drunk in hot tea. If sleeping through the night becomes a problem, elevating your head before sleep with an extra pillow should help.

Several studies have suggested that zinc supplements may reduce the length of a cold, but research has turned up mixed results about zinc and colds. Some studies show that zinc lozenges or syrup reduce the length of a cold by about one day. However, zinc also has potentially harmful side effects. Similarly, garlic, seen by some as a safe anti‑cold medicine, has not been proven to be effective.