Question

A 28 year-old Hispanic male with hypertension complains of a one week history of sore throat and nasal congestion. His symptoms have since diminished except for a dry cough that started a few days afterward. Which of the following medications is best to initiate at this visit?

A. Clarithromycin

B. guaifenesin

c pseudoephedrine

d diphenhydramine

Answer 1

step 1:

Clarithromycin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. It is not helpful for viral infections such as common cold, cough.

So this is not an appropriate one.

Step 2:

Guaifenesin is used to relieves the congestion by the loosening of mucus production and helpful for wet cough. So this is also not an appropriate one.

Step 3:

Pseudoephedrine is decongestant which helps to relieve sinus pain, swelling, and congestion. It doesn't work for dry cough. Precaution to be taken for the hypertensive patient. Hence this is an incorrect medication.

Step 4:

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine helpful for dry cough, runny nose, and allergic reactions. This is an appropriate medication for this patient.

d. diphenhydramine is the best option for this patient.