Ralph Metson, M.D., Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Question: What over-the-counter drugs are used to treat sinus infections, and how do they work?
Answer: The most common over-the-counter medications used to treat sinus infections would be your decongestants and antihistamines. Decongestants are pills that shrink the mucus membranes that line the nose and sinuses to try to promote better drainage. Antihistamines can help dry up some mucus secretions. They are particularly useful in patients who have bad allergies which may be the underlying cause of their sinusitis.
Other over-the-counter medications include nasal steroid sprays, which have recently become available without a prescription. These sprays, typically used once a day, block inflammation inside the nose. Again they are particularly useful in patients who have allergies, environmental allergies, which may be causing the sinus infections.
Next: What Prescription Drugs Are Used To Treat Sinus Infections, And When Are They Necessary?
Previous: How Are Sinus Infections Treated?
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