My well meaning mother makes me take some nasty tasting cough medicine at the first sign of a cold

That's too extreme. Your immune system might get weakened over time if she continues doing this. Tell her that. She shouldn't force to take medicine if you don't want to. Tell her you don't always want to take medicine. It's not healthy for you.

it’s important not to respond to the bully because doing so generally just escalates the problem.

tell a trusted adult about what is happening and save the evidence. you should also let your internet or cell phone provider know, along with the operator of the site if it is happening online.

if the bullying continues, notify the local police and consider consulting an attorney if it becomes serious.

school authorities may also become involved if it involves students on campus.