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over the counter drugs

Risk of Over-the-Counter Drugs and Medical Conditions

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are amazingly effective. 81 percent of adults turn to over-the-counter drugs at the first sign of a minor ailment. However, elders and those with chronic medical conditions can react adversely to OTC drugs.

Drugs for pain-relief, headaches, upset stomachs, and more are commonly found on the shelves of your local pharmacy. You probably have a cabinet or drawer full of medications for symptoms that arrive without cause. American households typically spend $338 on OTC drugs per year. You’re prepared to nip annoying pains in the bud with a pill or two of things like Advil, Aleve, or Tylenol, but knowing which of these medications are safe and which are risky for people at risk of adverse reactions is imperative.

over the counter drugs

By Condition

Each chronic medical condition has its symptoms, and each individual reacts differently to their illness. The elderly are more at risk of detrimental effects from regular pain relievers. Below are a few chronic conditions and the possible side effects of taking OTC medications with said illnesses.

Close-Angled Glaucoma

With close-angled glaucoma, acute attacks of papillary dilation can cause the pupils to enlarge too fast and block the drainage canals on the irises. The antihistamines in allergy medications and other decongestants can easily trigger these acute glaucoma attacks.

Agape Nutrition offers natural allergy relief with their Hevert Allergy Relief capsules. Homeopathic alternatives are ideal for improving your overall lifestyle as they can help you wean off traditional OTC drugs. 

Hypertension

High blood pressure, a prevalent condition in America, is life-threatening if not treated correctly. High sodium content in some OTC drugs is prone to cause unfavorable reactions. Furthermore, people who experience hypertension should be sure to avoid decongestants containing antihistamines. These medications can raise blood pressure through negative interactions with antihypertensive agents. A few examples of these are oxymetazoline, phenylephrine, and pseudoephedrine.

If you experience high blood pressure, avoid common decongestants and turn to MediNatura’s ReBoost Nasal Spray. It’s completely natural and proven to clear up your sinuses without raising your blood pressure.

The Elderly and Sedatives

Again, antihistamines can have many adverse effects on the elderly and those with a chronic illness. Over-sedation can cause decreased awareness in many older people, especially those with a predisposition to drowsiness. Over-fatigue and dizziness can pose many harmful risks to the elderly.

Hevert’s Motion Sickness Relief pills are a natural substance meant to keep the user alert. No more unsafe drowsiness. Always talk to a medical professional before incorporating supplements and OTC drugs into your lifestyle. 

For more information on over-the-counter drugs and homeopathic alternatives, contact Agape Nutrition at info@agapenutrition.com or 855-393-2825.