NSAIDs relieve some symptoms of the cold

SEOUL, July 8 (UPI) -- A review of nine studies found that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are effective in reducing many cold symptoms, South Korean researchers say.

Lead author Dr. Soo Young Kim of Hallym University Medical College and colleagues in Seoul says it is important to note that NSAIDs can relieve symptoms of the common cold -- not prevent or treat the illness.

NSAIDs include ibuprofen, available in brands such as Motrin and Advil, and naproxen, which is marketed as Aleve, Kim said.

"The review found that NSAIDs improved most analgesia-related symptoms such as headache, ear pain, and muscle and joint pain," Kim said in a statement. "We also found that NSAIDs significantly improved sneezing associated with the common cold."

The studies reviews included 1,064 children and adults suffering from a cold. In six studies, 891 participants had acquired the cold before the study began, while 178 participants in three other studies were infected deliberately. Treatment duration ranged from a single dose to two doses a day for seven days.

The investigators find that NSAIDs are beneficial in treating many cold symptoms, but not all cold symptoms. The reviewers find no clear evidence that NSAIDs are effective in improving respiratory symptoms such as cough and nasal discharge.

The findings are published in the Cochrane Library.