There are lots of different products available and you can support customers by recommending products to relieve their individual symptoms. Make sure you familiarise yourself with the products you stock such as sprays, tablets and liquids.

To give a customer the most appropriate advice you should always use the WWHAM questioning technique. This will help you recommend suitable products that your pharmacy stocks, or will help you to decide if you need to ask the pharmacist for further guidance.

Decongestants such as Pseudoephedrine and Xylometazoline can be used to relieve a blocked nose. They work by reducing the swelling of the blood vessels in the nose, helping to open up the airways. However they are not suitable for children under 12 years old, breastfeeding women or people with certain health conditions such as high blood pressure.

Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine can be used to treat a runny nose and nasal secretion. Its believed they work to dry up the secretion and stop the sneezing. However they are not suitable for everyone and they can cause drowsiness so be sure to advise customers accordingly.

Paracetamol and Ibuprofen can be used for treating general aches and pains. They are also available as combination products containing decongestants. Advice customers purchasing combination products to be aware that they already contain Paracetamol/ibuprofen to avoid overdose.