Which class of drugs is described as treating both cold and allergy symptoms?

Which class of drugs is described as treating both cold and allergy symptoms?

• A. Antihistamines and decongestants
• B. Antitussives and Expectorants
• C. Corticosteroids and Mast Cell Stabilizers
• D. Antibiotics

Answer: (A)

Combining an antihistamine with a decongestant is the best fit for treating both cold and allergy symptoms. The antihistamine blocks histamine activity, which helps relieve sneezing, runny nose, and itching that occur with allergies and many colds. The decongestant works by tightening the blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing swelling and nasal congestion common to both conditions. Together, they address multiple overlapping symptoms like nasal discharge and stuffiness. The other options don’t cover both symptom sets as effectively. Antitussives and expectorants target cough—antitussives suppress coughing, while expectorants help loosen mucus—rather than the broad cold/allergy picture. Corticosteroids and mast cell stabilizers reduce inflammation related to allergies and nasal symptoms but aren’t primarily used for the acute congestion seen in colds. Antibiotics treat bacterial infections and don’t relieve the typical cold or allergy symptoms.

Combining an antihistamine with a decongestant is the best fit for treating both cold and allergy symptoms. The antihistamine blocks histamine activity, which helps relieve sneezing, runny nose, and itching that occur with allergies and many colds. The decongestant works by tightening the blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing swelling and nasal congestion common to both conditions. Together, they address multiple overlapping symptoms like nasal discharge and stuffiness.

The other options don’t cover both symptom sets as effectively. Antitussives and expectorants target cough—antitussives suppress coughing, while expectorants help loosen mucus—rather than the broad cold/allergy picture. Corticosteroids and mast cell stabilizers reduce inflammation related to allergies and nasal symptoms but aren’t primarily used for the acute congestion seen in colds. Antibiotics treat bacterial infections and don’t relieve the typical cold or allergy symptoms.