If you’ve been to the doctor for a cough or cold this season he may have recommended medicine for your symptoms.

But what’s in these products? Pharmacist Ira Katz breaks down the label; “There really are very few actual ingredients that you what you see in the cough and cold area are just combinations of things as well as individual products. Decongestants are really only 2 decongestants approved for over the counter sale, actually one now is behind the counter that’s the old psudoephedrine and the other is phenalephrine.”

Decongestants have a tendency to elevate blood pressure. to loosen mucus in the chest, some products contain an expectorant called guaifenesin. Others contain a cough suppressant. Katz says, “The DM stands for dextromethorphan that’s the cough suppressant ingredient. Sometimes you have CF or cough formula and that would be your decongestant your expectorant and cough suppressant. the next ingredient you will find will be an antihistamine to help dry you up. if you see something with an antihistamine you just need to be aware that in some cases it can cause a little drowsiness.”

And remember, before you take any medication consult with your doctor or pharmacist.

Some could interfere with other medications, particularly heart drugs