Best Cold Medicine While Performing a Musical?

[Michael Bennett]

Posted: 6/17/05 at 2:46pm

The inevitable happened. Performing a demanding show, I've caught the beginnings of a cold. What's everyone's thoughts on taking decongestives before singing, etc. Any recommendations greatly appreciated!
Updated On: 6/17/05 at 02:46 PM

[bwaysinger]

Posted: 6/17/05 at 2:50pm

My voice professor in college wrote a book with her pharmacology doctor husband. It was really practical and had lots of good advice for over-the-counter information.
That said. Robitussin is their choice.

[Michael Bennett]

Posted: 6/17/05 at 2:52pm

Thanks bwy

[harris007]

Posted: 6/17/05 at 3:03pm

DO NOT USE CHOLOSEPTIC i think thats how u spell it , anyway it the spray stuff for thoats , it damages your vocal cords

[bwaysinger]

Posted: 6/17/05 at 3:18pm

Harris, Chloroseptic doesn't damage your vocal cords. It numbs them. That means you can CAUSE damage by doing something you shouldn't (like extended singing while using it) and not know it.

I reiterate Robitussin.
Believe it or not, caffeine is actually GREAT for a swollen throat. Most people think soda gums up their throat or dries them out due to the caffeine, but many studies have shown it's not always the case. If that's bothering you, drink a Coke (the caffeine is very soothing my own cords when they're swollen) and follow it with water.

[Jazzmyne]

Posted: 6/17/05 at 4:04pm

I have had the expierience through research and my vocal professors, that Chlortrimeton (I think I spelled that right) or Benadryl 4 hour are good for singers. A lot of Antihistamines and other decongensting agents will either really dry you out, or gunk you up and cause a LOT of post nasal drip which can lead to other nasties. I have heard a lot of good things about COLD-EEZE lozenges.. I've been told to start popping those puppies as SOON as you start to feel sick. Also I SWEAR by saline nasal spray. As a person with allergies, I really need this stuff. And it surely comes in handy when you have a cold. I also have just a personal fav of the riccola herbal throad lozenges.