PS268 Study Guide - Final Guide: Aspirin, Drug Discovery, Paracetamol
Cold and Allergy Products
-more than 100 viruses cause colds but 40-60% of colds cannot be connected to specific virus (thus no
cure)
2 types: rhinoviruses and coronaviruses (little is known)
Rhinoviruses:
-change immunological reactivity readily
-zero in on upper respiratory tract causing irritation, soreness, swelling of mucous membranes
-postnatal drip that irritates throat
-fever always develops early, incubation period for cold is usually 2-4 days
-only about 50% of people directly exposed to a cold virus develop cold symptoms
-most colds start by fingers picking up viruses, can kiss infected partner but not hold their hand
-no practical way to prevent colds and no way to cure infection once it starts
4 things to know to avoid cold viruses:
1) up to 100x as many viruses are produced and shed from nasal mucosa as from throat
2) there are few viruses in saliva of person with a cold, and probably none in at least half of individuals
3) dried viruses survive on dry skin and nonporous surfaces (plastic, wood) for more than 3 hours
4) most cold viruses enter body through nostrils and eyes
Modern cold remedies contain 3 common types of ingredients:
1) antihistamines for temporary relief of runny rose and sneezing
-usually chlorpheniramine maleate
Document Summary
More than 100 viruses cause colds but 40-60% of colds cannot be connected to specific virus (thus no. 2 types: rhinoviruses and coronaviruses (little is known) Zero in on upper respiratory tract causing irritation, soreness, swelling of mucous membranes. Fever always develops early, incubation period for cold is usually 2-4 days. Only about 50% of people directly exposed to a cold virus develop cold symptoms. Most colds start by fingers picking up viruses, can kiss infected partner but not hold their hand. No practical way to prevent colds and no way to cure infection once it starts. Modern cold remedies contain 3 common types of ingredients: antihistamines for temporary relief of runny rose and sneezing. Usually chlorpheniramine maleate: sympathomimetic nasal decongestants for temporary relief of swollen membranes. Phenylephrine: analgesic-antipyretics for temporary relief of aches and pains and fever reduction. Tylenol cold daytime also contains cough suppressant dextromethorphan.
