Struggling to find OTC medicines in Charlotte stores? COVID surge creates high demand
As people flock to big-box retailers and local pharmacies to find rapid COVID-19 tests, some stores are experiencing a shortage of over-the-counter medications.
Popular brands like NyQuil, Sudafed and Tylenol are limited or out of stock at many Target, Walmart, and CVS stores across the Charlotte area, according to their websites.
“We have seen significant demand for cough, cold and flu medicines,” a national Walmart spokesperson told the Observer. “We’ve been able to keep fairly good inventory levels but are working closely with our supplier to meet this demand and get the needed product to our customers.”
Since hours-long wait times at COVID-19 testing sites are the norm and at-home tests are in short supply, many people experiencing symptoms may be unaware if they have flu or coronavirus, which has only heightened demand for store-bought products.
Retailers, however, did not indicate when all products would be back in stock.
COVID-19 vs. flu
COVID-19 and flu are both contagious respiratory illnesses. However, compared to the flu, COVID-19 can also take longer before people show symptoms and become contagious, according to the CDC.
Common symptoms that COVID-19 and flu share include:
Fever and chills
Cough
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Fatigue
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle pain or body aches
Headache
Vomiting and diarrhea
Change in or loss of taste or smell
People over the age of 65, those who suffer from chronic medical conditions like heart disease or diabetes are at a higher risk for developing more serious complications from both illnesses. Anyone experiencing trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, or pale, gray or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds should seek emergency medical care immediately.
Because some of the indicators of flu and COVID-19 are similar, the difference between them cannot be determined based on symptoms alone. Getting tested for COVID-19 is the best way to confirm a diagnosis.
Which over-the-counter medications treat COVID-19 symptoms?
Though there are no over-the-counter remedies to treat the virus itself, some medications can alleviate symptoms.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol), naproxen (Aleve) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help lower a fever, and alleviate body aches, according to Dr. Emily Landon, an infectious disease expert at the University of Chicago. Coughs and sore throats can be managed with chamomile or herbal tea, hot water with lemon, lozenges and decongestant balms like Vicks VapoRub.
It’s best to let diarrhea and other stomach issues run their course and stay hydrated by drinking a lot of liquids, Landon advised. If you can’t keep liquids down or feel dizzy, consult a doctor.
This story was originally published January 6, 2022 at 2:58 PM.