Via practica 4/2021

Acute respiratory infection – symptomatic self-medication in adults

Addressing respiratory infections is a common reason to visit a pharmacy. Although the cause of problems can be diverse in terms of inducing agents, many of them can be addressed through self-medication. In 2020, COVID-19, which is caused by the coronavirus SARSCoV- 2, is a very current topic. Symptomatic treatment is indicated as monotherapy for respiratory infections of primarily viral etiology, otherwise it is administered as an adjunct to causal treatment. We currently have a range of over-the-counter drugs from various pharmacotherapeutic groups. In addition to drugs, phytopharmaceuticals can also be used. An essential part of the treatment is bed rest, plenty of fluids and a light diet supplemented with vitamins.

Keywords: respiratory infections, self‑medication