Which painkiller can help with a cold?

Paracetamol is the first-choice painkiller for pain associated with the common cold and sinusitis. It can reduce headaches, muscle pain, and pain around the sinuses. Paracetamol reduces symptoms but does not treat the cause.

Sinaspril liquid paracetamol

Within our category of cold painkillers, you will find Sinaspril liquid paracetamol for children aged 5 and up . Sinaspril is specifically intended for pain and fever associated with the flu and the common cold .

Do not use Sinaspril together with other products containing paracetamol. See the product page for dosage, warnings, and proper use.

View Sinaspril paracetamol 120 liquid

Reading tip: Also read our extensive blog on the common cold: symptoms, duration, and solutions , which includes tips on the use of medical devices for symptoms of a common cold.

When do you go to the GP?

Contact the GP when:

• headache or pain around the sinuses does not decrease after 2 weeks;
• a child younger than 3 months has a fever above 38 °C;
• a child older than 3 months has a fever for more than 3 days;
• you feel breathless, have a wheezing breath, or are short of breath;
• you develop painful or bulging eyes, or severely swollen eyelids in addition to cold symptoms;
• a swelling develops on the forehead;
• you are taking medication that suppresses the immune system.

Always contact your GP if symptoms worsen rapidly or are severe.

Frequently asked questions about painkillers for a cold

Can you combine a nasal spray with a painkiller?

Paracetamol and a suitable nasal spray can sometimes be used together. They target different symptoms. Paracetamol reduces pain and fever. A nasal spray can, depending on the type, relieve a stuffy nose.

Check the age limit and instructions for use for both products. If you are unsure whether the combination is suitable for you, for example due to other conditions or medications, consult your GP or pharmacist.

Read more about the different types of nasal sprays and their uses.

Does paracetamol help with a stuffy nose?

Paracetamol does not help with the constipation itself. However, it can reduce headaches, muscle pain, and fever associated with a cold.

Are you mainly suffering from a stuffy nose? Then a suitable remedy for nasal congestion might be a better fit. Read more about what you can do for a stuffy nose .

Sources

• Medicines Evaluation Board. Sinaspril paracetamol 120 liquid, syrup 120 mg/5 ml . Medicines Information Database.
• Thuisarts.nl. I want to give my child a painkiller .
• Thuisarts.nl. I have a sinus infection .