Cough and Congestion

Cough, cold and flu remedies including syrups, lozenges, decongestants and multi-symptom formulas. Brands include Advil, Tylenol, Buckley's, Benylin, Robitussin and A.Vogel. Shipping across Canada.

Not sure which to choose? Read our guide: Cold & Flu Medicine in Canada: Decongestant, Expectorant or Cough Suppressant?

Match the product to the cough

Cough medicines are not interchangeable, and taking the wrong type can work against you:

• Dry, tickly cough — a suppressant (usually dextromethorphan, listed as DM) reduces the urge to cough. Useful at night when a dry cough is keeping you awake.
• Chesty, productive cough — an expectorant (guaifenesin) thins mucus so it clears more easily. Suppressing a productive cough traps what your body is trying to move out.
• Blocked nose and sinuses — a decongestant, either oral or as a nasal spray. Medicated nasal sprays shouldn't be used beyond three days; longer use causes rebound congestion that's worse than the original blockage.
• Sore throat — lozenges and sprays give local relief, and are often enough on their own.

Single-ingredient vs. multi-symptom

All-in-one products are convenient but frequently medicate symptoms you don't have. If your only problem is a night-time cough, a single-ingredient suppressant is usually the better choice than a formula also containing a decongestant, an antihistamine and a pain reliever.

Multi-symptom products also make it easy to double up accidentally — most contain acetaminophen or ibuprofen already. Check the active ingredients before adding a separate pain reliever.

Natural and drug-free options

Saline rinses and sprays are safe at any age and can be used as often as needed. Honey-based syrups, echinacea preparations and elderberry are widely used, and A.Vogel's Echinaforce range is among the better-researched herbal options. See also Immune Support and Sinus & Nasal.

Children

Health Canada advises against giving over-the-counter cough and cold medicines to children under six. For younger children, saline drops, humidified air and fluids are the recommended approach. See Kids & Baby for age-appropriate options.

See a healthcare provider if a cough lasts more than a week or two, if you have difficulty breathing, chest pain, a high or persistent fever, or if you're coughing up blood. Decongestants can raise blood pressure and are not suitable for everyone — check with your provider if you have hypertension, heart conditions, glaucoma or prostate problems.