Chronic Disorders and Over-the-Counter Drugs
Disorder |
OTC Drugs |
Precautions |
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Cold remedies |
Recovering alcoholics need to be vigilant about avoiding any products that contain alcohol, including cold remedies. Some products contain as much as 25% alcohol. |
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Decongestants |
People with diabetes should consult a doctor before they take decongestants because these drugs can worsen diabetes and have dangerous side effects. |
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Cough syrups |
People with diabetes may need help locating liquid products that do not contain sugar, cough syrups included. |
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Antihistamines Decongestants |
People with an enlarged prostate should consult a doctor or pharmacist before they take antihistamines and decongestants because side effects can be dangerous. |
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Antihistamines Decongestants |
Taking an antihistamine or decongestant can complicate certain types of glaucoma. |
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Heart disease |
Antacids Cold remedies Analgesics |
People with heart disease should consult a doctor or pharmacist to help them select an antacid or cold remedy that does not interact with their prescription drugs. Certain analgesics such as NSAIDs may worsen heart failure. |
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Decongestants |
People with heart disease should consult a doctor or pharmacist before they take decongestants because side effects can be dangerous. |
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High blood pressure (hypertension) |
Analgesics Antacids |
People with high blood pressure should consult a doctor or pharmacist before they select an analgesic or antacid. |
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Decongestants |
People with high blood pressure should consult a doctor or pharmacist before they take decongestants because side effects can be dangerous. |
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Hyperthyroidism (over activity of the thyroid gland) |
Decongestants |
People with hyperthyroidism should consult a doctor or pharmacist before they take decongestants because side effects can be dangerous. |
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Kidney disorders |
Antacids NSAIDs |
People with kidney disorders should consult a doctor or pharmacist before they select an antacid or use an NSAID. |
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NSAIDs = nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; OTC = over-the-counter. |
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