This usually takes a week to ten days. Two 250 mg tablets every 4 hours will reduce fever and relieve aching. They contain both a decongestant which shrinks membranes and an antihistamine which dries mucus. Some contain caffeine to counteract the drowsiness caused by the antihistamine. Keeps body hydrated.
Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections, including colds.
An uncomplicated cold lasts from 7 - 10 days. Temperature over 101 degrees F. A cough which produces greenish or rusty looking sputum. The good news is that once you have had a cold you will immune to that particular virus for 3 - 4 months. The bad news is that there are at least 200 cold viruses. The Flu A viral infection similar to a cold but characterized by a sudden onset of symptoms.