As a student here I have encountered a few inconveniences when it comes to medical help and attention. The idea of cold medicines and antibiotics are really not as freely given out or prescribed by doctors. In the states, if I need medicine or even think that I need medicine, it is prescribed immediately, sometimes without a doctors visit. Here, I am told to rest and drink tea... My friend purchased boxes of sudafed in Ireland because she knew she could not get it here in Amsterdam. As frustrating as it can be, at the same time, the Dutch may have a point. You really can get better without the use of medication, but you just have to give yourself time and rest.