Whos at risk of side effects from OTC drugs?
Anyone can experience unwanted side effects from OTC drugs, but those most at risk include older adults; people with chronic health problems; and people who take other prescription drugs or OTC medications, including herbal products. Children, pregnant women, breastfeeding women and women trying to get pregnant are also more likely to have problems. What kinds of problems do older adults have? Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (in Motrin and Advil) and naproxen sodium (in Aleve) can increase your risk for kidney disease and gastrointestinal bleeding. The decongestant pseudoephedrine used in cold and allergy medicines can increase blood pressure in your eyes and cause glaucoma. An OTC drug taken with prescription drugs such as beta-blockers, antidepressants and insulin can cause negative interactions. For example, taking aspirin if you’re on blood-thinning medication can lead to serious bleeding. What’s more, older adults may no longer metabolize drugs effi
