What is the best remedy for post nasal drip?

  • Q: What is the best remedy for post nasal drip? My doctor prescribed steroids, which have not been successful.
  • A: There are many over the counter medication available to help with the symptoms of a cold. If you have nasal congestion or sinus pressure you may want a decongestant. Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) is the most effective oral decongestant (it is found behind the pharmacy counter, but you do not need a prescription). Topical or nasal decongestants (nasal sprays) such as Afrin (oxymetazoline) are an alternative to products like Sudafed. They act locally in the nose so they are less likely to cause side effects other than burning or dryness of the nose. Make sure you do not use a nasal decongestant longer than 3-5 days or your congestion could get worse. If you have a cough that is nonproductive, a product containing the cough suppressant dextromethorphan can be helpful. If you have a productive cough or chest congestion, guaifenesin (Mucinex, some Robitussin products) can help loosen secretions when taken with plenty of water. If you are suffering from sneezing, itchy/watery eyes or runny nose an antihistamine such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Clor-Trimeton (chlorpheniramine), Claritin (loratadine), or Zyrtec (cetirizine) can help relieve these symptoms. Post-nasal drip can often be caused by the mucus related to allergies. Antihistamines are medications that work by blocking the histamine receptors that are responsible for allergy symptoms. Loratadine and cetirizine are considered non-sedating antihistamines so they would be a better choice for daytime since they are less likely to cause drowsiness. Claritin (loratadine) and Zyrtec (cetirizine) are once daily tablets while Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and Clor-Trimeton (chlorpheniramine) are to be taken every 4-6 hours. Be sure to consult your pharmacist if you take prescription medications or if you have any chronic disease states such as glaucoma, diabetes, thyroid disease, high blood pressure or heart disease before choosing a cold medication since they could interact with your medication or disease state. Laura Cable, PharmD
This question was answered on May 16, 2011.


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