Is it safe to take over the counter meds daily for the rest of your life?

Question

I finally found an antihistamine/decongestant that works for me and its over the counter. It's wal-mart's generic for children. I'm an adult but out of desperation I tried my kids med. and it works. Since I have congestion year round is it safe to continually take it on a daily basis?

Answer 1

It is quite safe in both children and adults to take full strength anti histamines and decongestants daily for an entire life time. There is no difference between equivalent dosages of products by generic versus brand name or between different generics and brands. Side effects and problems are known but rare although it is true that the dose may need to decreased for those aged 65 and older. Please avoid the anti histamine diphenhydramine (Benadryl) which in my opinion should not be available.

Answer 2

Really nothing is going to get rid of a cold except time. You could try taking in more vitamin C, like orange juice. That can help shorten the time of a cold but there is nothing that gets rid of a cold. Thats why doctors don't give prescriptions for colds. Is the amounts of the ingredients the same? Maybe that is what is different about the 2 meds. Sorry I couldn't offer more advice. Get rest and vitamin C.....good luck Stephanie :)

Answer 3

Probably safe to take, but you may become resistant to it - your body may become so used to it that it quits working. I'd find something else that works almost as good, then alternate.

Answer 4

First, talk to your doctor about this, as any long-term medication should be discussed with your doctor.

That being said, as long as you follow the directions for taking the medication, there shouldn't be any problem.

But, talk to your doctor first.

Vandevere

Answer 5

I would ask my Doctor. Should you have to take other medications, this
could have an effect on your body.