From the School Nurse

Cold and Flu Medications

During winter months many of us are likely to experience the distressing symptoms of a cold or flu. At these times, we may reach for an over the counter medication to help reduce the discomfort. These medicines are helpful in relieving many of the symptoms related to the common cold, but they need to be used with the same amount of care as any medications. Just because a doctor’s prescription is not required, it doesn’t mean they are without risks.

Tips for safe use

Always start by reading the label - all of it 

Reading the label will help you decide if you have selected the right product for your symptoms, understand the dosing instructions, and are aware of any warnings that may apply to you. Read the label to see what to avoid while you are taking cold & flu medications. This may include certain other drugs (i.e. alcohol) or activities. (i.e. driving).

Look for a medication that will treat only the symptoms you have 

Use extra caution if using several different medications. Watch for both duplicate ingredients and usage. First check the active ingredient(s) used in each medication. Second, check for usage duplication. For example, two cold medicines may contain different active ingredients, but both of those ingredients act as fever reducers. When in doubt, ask the pharmacist before you buy or use cold & flu medications.

Take the medicine EXACTLY as stated on the label 

When it comes to any medications, more does not mean better! Taking too much of a non-prescription medicine can be harmful. Never use longer than the label instructs or at higher or more frequent doses, unless your doctor specifically tells you to do so.

Don’t combine prescription medicines and cold and flu medications without talking to your doctor or pharmacist first.

Sometimes combining drugs can cause adverse reactions or one drug can interfere with the other drug’s effectiveness. Consult your physician before taking cold medicines if you suffer from a heart condition, kidney disease, glaucoma, or other medical condition. 

Always only give infants and children any medications that are especially formulated for their age and weight 

Cold and flu medications should never be given to children under the age of four. Never use cough, cold, or allergy medicines to sedate a child. Never give aspirin-containing products to children and adolescents for cold or flu symptoms unless told to do so by a doctor.  Don’t use any medications after their expiration date.

Dispose of all medications promptly after their expiration date.  Be careful not to throw them away where children or pets may find them.

Stop use and contact your doctor immediately if you develop any side effects or reactions that concern you.

Potential Side Effects of Cold and Flu medications

Antihistamines in cold medicines relieve itchy and watering eyes, sneezing, a scratchy throat, and a runny nose. While drowsiness is the most common side effect of antihistamines, dizziness, headaches, dry mouth, dry eyes, and feelings of fatigue are also possible. Alcohol consumption while taking antihistamines can increase drowsiness and fatigue.

Decongestants such as pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine--will help reduce congestion in the sinuses, but they can also increase blood pressure and your heart rate. Restlessness, insomnia, tremors, and anxiety are possible side effects of decongestant drugs as well. According to the Minnesota Poison Control, caffeine consumption can worsen these symptoms.

Cough Suppressants & Expectorants reduces coughing and breaks up mucus in the sinuses. Cough suppressants and expectorants can cause drowsiness, nausea, confusion, and dizziness. Cough suppressants can cause constipation, while expectorants can cause diarrhoea.

Pain Relievers(such as ibuprofen or paracetamol) will help with the headaches and body aches associated with the common cold. Paracetamol and ibuprofen are both safe when proper dosing is followed. If you are prone to stomach problems, take ibuprofen with a meal since it can cause stomach discomfort.

Sleep Aids - such as diphenhydramine will assist you in falling asleep at night when you have a cold, but it can also leave you feeling groggy the next day and mildly disoriented. Dry mouth, urinary retention and decreased respiratory secretions are also side effects of sleeping aids in cold medicines.

Contraindications

The drugs in many cold and flu medications can interact negatively with other medications, particularly some antidepressants. Consult your physician if you have any concerns about these medications or any other drugs that you may be taking.