Effects of a Common Cold Treatment on Cognitive Function

Effects of a Common Cold Treatment on Cognitive Function

A reduction in alertness and lower levels of performance are commonly associated with the common cold. Paracetamol has been shown to be more effective than placebo in treating symptoms associated with upper respiratory tract infection; caffeine has been shown to increase levels of alertness and improve performance of people suffering from colds. This study will investigate any improvement in alertness and performance based on cognitive function and mood assessment in subjects suffering from the common cold, when taking a novel paracetamol and caffeine combination verses paracetamol alone.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Present with symptoms of the common cold of no more than 96 hours duration
• Score of "2" or more on a self-rating for malaise and at least 4 other cold symptoms

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy or lactation
• Hypersensitivity to drugs
• Have taken caffeine in the last 12 hours or treated their cold