If you're a novice cook and want to keep it simple then get a nice nonstick pan and just don't use metal on it - silicone, plastic, or wood. You can even use the rough side of a sponge fine. Just don't run it through the dishwasher. Should easily last you 5+ years.
Cast iron and stainless steel are great but more particular in how you use and maintain them.
If you ask for it you can get full on ephedrine at a lot of pharmacies over the counter. Sold under the brand names Primatene and Bronkaid. Just prepare to be asked for your ID so they can track how much you buy (in the US anyways) since it's a meth precursor.
It's meant for people with asthma so it also includes guaifenesin.