Although cold and cough medicines are generally classified as over-the-counter drugs, it turns out that the effects of the ingredients in them can be misused as psychotropics (drugs that can affect a person's thoughts, behavior, and emotions) which can cause addiction and endanger users.
Pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine (PE) are two ingredients that are generally contained in over-the-counter medicines for handling colds and coughs. Both are drugs to relieve nasal congestion and relieve pressure on the sinuses due to fever, allergies, and colds.
Pseudoephedrine and Phenylephrine equation
In general, because both are decongestants or lozenges, pseudoephedrine and PE should not be taken simultaneously unless recommended by a doctor in a certain way. If used together, they can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.
Although drugs containing pseudoephedrine or PE are still classified as over-the-counter drugs in Indonesia, it is advisable to see a doctor first before taking these drugs if you have the following conditions:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Thyroid disorders
- Enlarged prostate gland
- Kidney disorders
- Narrowing or blockage of the digestive system that requires medical treatment
Consumption of drugs containing pseudoephedrine should also be consulted first if you have glaucoma. Likewise, if you are pregnant and / or breastfeeding, it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking drugs containing pseudoephedrine or PE. Both can increase the risk of congenital defects and reduce the level of milk production. These drugs can also enter breast milk, so giving them to nursing mothers must be accompanied by a doctor's approval.
Consumption of other drugs, such as vitamins, herbal medicines, and other drugs can make pseudoephedrine or PE not work effectively, it can even cause dangerous reactions. Communicate with your doctor if you are taking other medications or taking certain supplements to prevent unwanted interactions, including medications to treat asthma, lose weight, and increase your appetite.
Antidepressant drugs such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and antidepressants that contain amitriptilline, doxepin, and isocarboxazide are groups of drugs that can interact with pseudoephedrine and PE so they should not be taken together.
Consumption of restricted pseudoephedrine
Pseudoephedrine works by relaxing the muscles around the respiratory tract so that more air enters. It should be noted that while it can relieve symptoms, pseudoephedrine does not speed up the healing process. In addition, unfortunately pseudoephedrine is often used to make methamphetamine illegally which can cause addiction. Methamphetamine is a psychoactive drug that can affect emotions, feelings, and perceptions of the reality of its users, or commonly known as drugs.
Stimulant effects cause pseudoephedrine-containing drugs that are not infrequently used as psychotropic substances that give a sense of joy and hyperactivity. In the past, this drug has also been used by athletes as a doping to improve performance. Even consuming too much caffeine can worsen the side effects of pseudoephedrine.
This is why in certain countries, even though drugs containing PE are categorized as over-the-counter drugs, those containing pseudoephedrine have been severely restricted in some countries.
Excessive use of Pseudoephedrine
In addition, like most drugs, pseudoephedrine also has side effects. Common side effects of pseudoephedrine include nausea, vomiting, weakness, headaches, to insomnia, stomach pain, shortness of breath, anxiety and changes in heart rate. In addition, if taken together with other drugs, pseudoephedrine can cause tremors, anxiety, hallucinations, convulsions, pain during urination, disrupted cardiovascular system.
PE works by reducing the swelling of the ears and nose so that it can reduce discomfort and relieve breathing. But like pseudoephedrine, this drug should not be used in children under 6 years of age. Some other forms of PE products should not even be consumed by children under 12 years of age.
Use this medicine according to instructions for use and consumption according to the recommended dosage. PE is widely used as a cough medicine which does not cause drowsiness. However, still consult the use of this drug with a doctor related to its use.
Comments
Post a Comment