South Middlesex Times

Seasonal allergy sufferers often rely on over-the-counter and prescription medications to alleviate symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, runny nose, congestion, and itchiness. However, many are unaware of the potential side effects associated with these treatments. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 million people visit U.S. hospital emergency departments annually due to adverse drug events, with over a quarter requiring hospitalization.

Diane Calello, executive and medical director of the New Jersey Poison Control Center at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, highlighted this issue stating, “All medicines have side effects associated with them even when they are taken appropriately and according to dosing directions on the label.” She urged consumers to be aware of potential side effects from allergy medication which can range from agitation to drowsiness or even liver damage.

Calello emphasized that all medicines, including antihistamines, carry risks of serious side effects. Over-the-counter medicines can pose the same risks for dangerous side effects, drug-to-drug interactions and overdose as prescription medicines.

The risk extends beyond just prescribed or over-the-counter drugs; anyone who takes vitamins and supplements is also at risk for potentially harmful effects. To mitigate these risks when taking any form of medicine (over-the-counter, prescription, vitamins and supplements), several safety tips were provided:

- Securely store medicine to prevent accidental poisoning.

- Choose medicines that treat only your specific symptoms.

- Be aware that many medicines contain more than one ingredient and some may even contain alcohol.

- Avoid taking products with the same active ingredients simultaneously.

- Do not exceed recommended dosages or duration of use.

- Be mindful that many legal drugs can impair driving ability.

- Carefully follow dosage recommendations for children based on their weight rather than age.

- Be cautious about drug interactions when taking multiple medications concurrently.

In case of contact with something dangerous or an adverse reaction to medication, the Control Center can be reached 24/7 at 800-222-1222 for medical treatment advice. If someone is experiencing severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness or seizures, call 9-1-1 immediately.