Possible Health Effects |
Short-term |
Euphoria; slurred speech; increased heart rate, blood pressure,
temperature; numbness; dizziness; nausea; vomiting; confusion; paranoia;
altered visual perceptions; problems with movement; buildup of excess
acid in body fluids. |
Long-term |
Unknown. |
Other Health-related Issues |
Breathing problems, seizures, and increased heart rate may occur from other ingredients in cough/cold medicines. |
In Combination with Alcohol |
Increased risk of adverse effects. |
Withdrawal Symptoms |
Unknown. |
Treatment options |
Medications |
There are no FDA-approved medications to treat addiction to over-the-counter cough/cold medicines. |
Behavioral Therapies |
More research is needed to find out if behavioral therapies can be
used to treat addiction to over-the-counter cough/cold medicines. |