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Adverse Effects of over the Counter Medications

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Submitted By giellen09
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What are some adverse effects of over-the-counter medications used to treat pulmonary disorders?

Taking over the counter medications for any condition can be dangerous, but particularly so for pulmonary disorders. Three problems that stand out and must be addressed are, overdose, side effects and adverse reactions to other medication or treatments one may be taking. Some are minor in nature and others are extremely serious and dangerous and may in extreme cases result in death. Overdose may be the most serious. The phenomenon that many think spurs this. Serious overdoses and abuse of medications occur as a result. Medications for temporary relief of coughs caused by bronchitis, and other breathing illnesses works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, clearing congestion, and making breathing easier. Some side effects and adverse reactions to over the counter pulmonary medications are addressed here. For example, Musinex D is used to treat bronchitis but may cause GI problems such as upset stomach, nausea and diarrhea. Another is Guafenesin, used to thin mucus may result in drowsiness, headaches, and anxiety attacks which may increase heart rate, caused breathing difficulty and dizziness insomnia.
Naturally one must be careful and aware of such adverse effects before using any over the counter medications. Because as mentioned earlier there are definite dangers. Some impair work performance, driving and equipment operation. These conditions may result in serious mistakes in judgment, or accidents which may be fatal.
References:

http://www.medicinenet.com/guaifenesin/article.htm

http://www.mucinex.com/html/
Sagall, R. J. (2008). Cough Medicine Dangers. Pediatrics for Parents, 24(2), 1. Retrieved from EBSCOhost.

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