I stay away from cold meds because, like Maven, I find that they increase my anxiety. Even the ones that list drowsiness as a side effect have the opposite effect on me. I get edgy and my heart races.

I have the flu right now. I felt it coming on Monday morning and immediately started taking vitamin C, echinacea, and a natural remedy called Cold FX (it's basically just high doses of ginseng) and spent a day in bed. It doesn't make me feel better immediately, but I find that my colds and flus seem to be less intense and don't last as long when I start on these immune-boosters and get some rest at the first signs of feeling sick. I'm starting to feel better already.

I have heard very good things about the Airborne stuff that Maven mentioned. My friends in the U.S. swear by it, but I haven't been able to find it in the pharmacies here.

The only other thing I take is Flonase nasal spray -- for my sinus problems.

I hope you feel better soon.