$Unique_ID{BRK00774}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Nonprescription Cold Medications Not as Effective}
$Subject{cold medication medications runny nose over the counter dose dosage
dosages metabolism side effects reactions hypertension diabetes mellitus}
$Volume{R-6}
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Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Nonprescription Cold Medications Not as Effective


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QUESTION:  I frequently use cold medications that I can buy from my local
pharmacy, but then find that they are not as effective as I need.  My nose
still runs, and I have wondered whether I couldn't just take an extra pill to
get the result I need.  I feel that these medications must be pretty safe, or
they couldn't sell them without a prescription.  Have I judged the situation
correctly, or am I being unwise?

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ANSWER:  Your analysis of the potency of over the counter medications is a
common one.  Certainly if they may be obtained without a prescription, they
should be safe for most anyone who needs their remedy for common problems.
And they are safe, when taken as directed, in the recommended dosages and
amounts.  When you start making up new schedules and dosages you are playing
with fire.  You did not reveal which medication you are using, nor any
personal statistics.  Perhaps you are a big 6 foot and then some, 250 pound
young man in perfect health, so that the amount of medication in a cold pill
is really less than optimum for you.  But if you are an older reader, of less
imposing proportions, and a metabolism that is more sensitive to the actions
of medications, then increasing medication dosages exposes you to increased
unwanted side effects and reactions.  If you are on other medications of any
kind, that risk is dramatically increased.  Over-the-counter medications
certainly have their place and value for common complaints, but when your
medical history is complicated by a chronic condition, such as hypertension or
diabetes, all medications should be prescribed after consideration has been
paid to all of the unique factors in your history and situation.  I can not
justify your point of view, although I certainly can understand it.  The rules
say "Take as Directed" and those words were placed there with your safety and
well being in mind.  If the medication in those doses is not doing the job,
perhaps you have misjudged the diagnosis, and and examination and a correctly
prescribed medication can save you much grief.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.