Sudafed for anxiety

Medications That Cause Anxiety | hims

Anxiety is a common feeling of fear, uneasiness and worry. It’s something we all deal with from time to time. However, for some people, anxiety can be a persistent, recurring issue that gets in the way of living a fulfilling, happy life.

If you have anxiety that’s severe or doesn’t get better over time, it could be a sign that you have an anxiety disorder.

Several different factors can cause or contribute to anxiety, including your exposure to stressful events, your history of mental illness and your physical health.

One potential cause of anxiety that many people aren’t aware of is medication. From common over-the-counter treatments to prescription drugs, several widely-used medications have been linked with anxiety symptoms and even clinically significant anxiety disorders. Below, we’ve discussed the link between medication and anxiety in detail and listed the drugs, supplements and other substances that are known to cause or aggravate anxiety.

We’ve also talked about what you can do if you’re prone to anxiety symptoms and think that medication or other substances could be to blame.

The Basics of Anxiety

Before we get into the specifics of medications that can cause anxiety, let’s briefly go over what anxiety is and how it can become problematic.

Anxiety is a feeling of fear, uneasiness and worry. It’s a natural feeling that we all experience at certain points in life, usually during stressful situations such as prior to taking a test, performing in front of others or making a major decision.

Anxiety can involve psychological and physical symptoms. Common psychological symptoms of anxiety include:

Feeling on-edge, restless or full of energy
Finding it difficult to concentrate or remember things
Irritability and a “short fuse” with other people
Excessive, irrational feelings of worry or concern
Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep or feeling rested
Feeling out of control of yourself, or that something bad is about to occur

Common physical symptoms of anxiety include:

Muscle tension, stiffness and pain
Feeling physically tired and fatigued
Difficulty breathing and a sense that you’re smothering or choking
Sweating, trembling and/or shaking
A fast, pounding heartbeat and heart palpitations

It’s normal to experience some of these symptoms at certain times. However, if you’ve noticed severe anxiety symptoms — or symptoms that occur on a regular basis — it could indicate that you have an anxiety disorder.

Our guide to the types of anxiety disorders goes into more detail about these symptoms, as well as common anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, panic disorder and others.

Medications That Can Cause Anxiety

Sometimes, anxiety can develop as a side effect of certain medications or substances. This type of anxiety is typically referred to as a substance-induced anxiety disorder, or medication-induced anxiety disorder.

Anxiety can develop as a side effect of certain medications or as a withdrawal symptom when a medication or other substance is stopped abruptly.

Many common medications can cause, worsen or contribute to anxiety. We’ve listed some of the most common causes of medication-induced anxiety below.

ADHD Medications

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically involves difficulty paying attention and/or controlling impulsive behaviors.

Some medications used to treat ADHD can cause or contribute to anxiety. This is because most ADHD medications are stimulants — medications that work by increasing activity in your central nervous system.

Common stimulants used to treat ADHD include dextroamphetamine/amphetamine (Adderall®), methylphenidate (Ritalin® and Concerta®) and dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine®).

Anxiety is one of the most frequently reported side effects of adults who use Adderall XR®, one of the most widely-prescribed ADHD medications.

Because of their effects on your central nervous system, these medications can cause a faster heart rate, increased blood pressure and increased breathing. When misused, they may cause paranoia, anger and psychosis.

online counseling

the best way to try counseling

Products and Medications That Contain Caffeine

Caffeine is an extremely popular stimulant. In fact, research suggests that caffeine is the most widely used psychoactive substance in the world, with 80 percent of the adult population in the Western world contributing enough caffeine to have a noticeable effect on the brain.

As a type of stimulant, caffeine affects your cardiovascular system, your respiratory system and your brain. It increases blood flow and promotes a faster heartbeat.

While small doses of caffeine (for example, the amount in a few cups of coffee) generally aren’t considered harmful, some research has found that caffeine may exacerbate anxiety and certain sleep issues.

In people with existing psychiatric issues, caffeine consumption may also increase hostility and anxiety.

In addition to coffee, caffeine is found in lots of energy drinks, health and fitness supplements, cold and flu treatments, headache medications and other products, including medications sold over the counter.

Asthma Inhalers

Asthma inhalers, or short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs), are “rescue” medications that are used to provide rapid relief from the symptoms of asthma.

Many asthma inhalers contain the medication albuterol, a bronchodilator that works by relaxing the air passages and allowing air to more easily flow to the lungs. Albuterol can help to prevent shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, coughing and other asthma symptoms.

Albuterol, which is also called salbutamol, can activate motor nerve terminals found throughout the body and cause anxiety-related side effects such as nervousness, tremors, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep and increased blood pressure.

These side effects may make the physical symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder more severe.

Antidepressants

Antidepressants are prescription medications that are primarily used to treat depression. They work by increasing the levels of certain naturally-occurring chemicals, called neurotransmitters, that control your moods and stress levels.

In certain cases, antidepressants may also be used to treat the symptoms of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder.

Common types of antidepressants include:

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

Most people who use antidepressants are prescribed SSRIs or SNRIs. Common SSRIs include sertraline (Zoloft®), escitalopram (Lexapro®), fluvoxamine (Luvox®), citalopram (Celexa®) and fluoxetine (Prozac®).

Common SNRIs include venlafaxine (Effexor XR®), duloxetine (Cymbalta®) and desvenlafaxine (Pristiq®).

Despite helping many people to deal with anxiety disorders, some antidepressants may make anxiety, agitation and irritability worse after starting treatment. This is sometimes referred to as jitteriness/anxiety syndrome.

Although human research is limited, some experts believe that this increase in anxiety may be linked to the effects of the neurotransmitter serotonin on certain brain circuits.

Many people develop side effects from antidepressants, and it’s normal to try several different medications before finding one that works well for you without causing significant issues.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are medications that work by controlling inflammation and inhibiting the immune system. They’re used to treat allergic reactions, contact dermatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmune disorders, arthritis and many other conditions.

Widely-used corticosteroids include prednisone, prednisolone, hydrocortisone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone and others. These medications may be available as tablets, topical creams, inhalers, eye drops, ear drops and in other forms.

Corticosteroids can cause significant side effects, especially when they’re used at a high dosage or for a long period of time. These side effects may include anxiety, irritation, difficulty sleeping, mood changes and even psychosis.

Research also suggests that use of corticosteroids may affect certain mental skills referred to as executive cognitive function, such as memory, flexible thinking and self-control.

Thyroid Medications

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located inside your neck that produces hormones responsible for controlling your body’s metabolism. Most thyroid medications are used to treat an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) or overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

Treatment for hypothyroidism involves using medication to bring your thyroid hormone levels up to the normal range.

Some medications used to treat hypothyroidism, such as levothyroxine (Synthroid®) can cause anxiety as a side effect. They can also cause heart palpitations, restlessness, tremors, sweating and increased, rapid weight loss.

If you develop anxiety from a thyroid medication, your healthcare provider will use a blood test to check that your thyroid hormone levels aren’t overly high. If necessary, they may adjust your dosage to reduce your risk of feeling anxious or experiencing other side effects.

Nasal Decongestants

Nasal decongestants are medications that are used to treat upper respiratory illnesses, such as rhinitis (inflammation and swelling of the inside of your nose), common allergies and headaches caused by sinus infections.

Certain decongestant medications contain active ingredients that may cause or contribute to the symptoms of anxiety.

For example, the head cold and sinus congestion medication Sudafed® contains the ingredient pseudoephedrine, which can narrow blood vessels and cause physical anxiety symptoms such as restlessness, nervousness, elevated blood pressure and difficulty sleeping.

Antihistamines

Like nasal decongestants, antihistamines are commonly used to provide relief from the nose and/or eye symptoms linked to seasonal allergies, the common cold and flu. They’re also widely used to treat allergy-related skin conditions, peptic ulcers and certain digestive issues.

Many antihistamines are associated with feelings of calmness and drowsiness. However, some people who take antihistamines report developing physical symptoms that are commonly linked to anxiety.

For example, palpitations, rapid heartbeat and central nervous system stimulation are all known side effects of diphenhydramine, a first-generation antihistamine.

Research suggests that the risk of anxiety may differ between antihistamine medications, with a study published in the International Journal of Psychiatry in Clinical Practice finding that certain antihistamines scored higher on patient depression and anxiety assessments than others.

Medication Withdrawal and Anxiety

While most medications that cause anxiety do so as an unwanted side effect, others can cause anxiety as a withdrawal effect.

For example, many common antidepressants can cause withdrawal symptoms when treatment is stopped abruptly. This is often referred to as “antidepressant discontinuation syndrome,” and it tends to occur when treatment is stopped abruptly after at least one month of use.

Symptoms of antidepressant discontinuation syndrome include anxiety, irritability, agitation and mania (abnormally high levels of activity or energy), as well as lethargy, fatigue, nausea, vertigo, dizziness and other physical symptoms.

Other medications that may cause withdrawal symptoms include sedative-hypnotics (drugs that are used to treat anxiety and insomnia), opiates, beta-blockers, corticosteroids and certain high blood pressure medications.

If you’ve recently stopped using any type of medication and notice persistent or severe anxiety symptoms, it’s important to let your healthcare provider know.

Recreational Drugs and Anxiety

Many recreational drugs, both legal and illegal, can either cause or contribute to the symptoms of anxiety. If you have an existing anxiety disorder, using recreational drugs and/or alcohol may make your anxiety disorder symptoms worse.

Some recreational drugs might provide short-term relief from anxiety. However, in the long term, many illicit substances can make anxiety more severe and extreme.

Recreational drugs associated with anxiety include:

Although cannabis is often viewed as a drug that promotes relaxation and calmness, research findings are mixed, with some studies suggesting that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), one active compound in cannabis, may cause anxiety when consumed at high doses.

Many other recreational drugs, including those not listed above, may cause anxiety or paranoia as long-term side effects or withdrawal symptoms.

How to Treat a Substance or Medication-Induced Anxiety Disorder

If you have anxiety and think it could be caused by a medication or illicit drug, it’s important to reach out to a mental health provider for assistance.

You can get expert help for mental health by talking to your primary care provider, meeting with a psychiatrist or psychologist in your area, or by talking to a licensed psychiatry provider online using our psychiatry services.

Your mental health provider may recommend one or several of the following forms of treatment for anxiety to help you get relief from your symptoms and make progress towards recovery.

Switching to a Different Medication

If you’ve recently developed anxiety after starting a medication, your provider may recommend switching to a different type of medication that’s less likely to cause anxiety symptoms.

In some cases, making small changes such as adjusting your dose or using your medication at a specific time of day may help to reduce the severity of your anxiety or stop it from having an effect on your daily life.

Using Anti-Anxiety Medication

Several medications are available to treat anxiety, including benzodiazepines, antidepressants and beta-blockers. Your mental health provider may recommend using medication for anxiety if switching your current medication isn’t safe or appropriate.

Benzodiazepines work quickly to reduce the severity of anxiety. They’re effective, but they can be habit-forming. To reduce your risk of dependence, your mental health provider may suggest using this type of medication only when needed or for a short period of time.

Antidepressants treat anxiety by increasing your levels of certain neurotransmitters — chemicals that control your stress levels and moods. They’re often effective, but can take several weeks to start working.

Beta-blockers work by reducing the severity of physical anxiety symptoms, such as a fast heart rate or shaking. Your mental health provider may prescribe a beta-blocker such as propranolol for performance anxiety and other forms of situational anxiety.

If you’re prescribed psychiatric medication for anxiety, make sure to use it exactly as directed by your mental health provider. Inform your healthcare provider if you develop any side effects, or if you don’t feel that your medication is effective.

Our guide to anti-anxiety medications goes into more detail about the types of medications used to treat anxiety.

Taking Part in Psychotherapy

Many people with anxiety disorders benefit from psychotherapy, or talk therapy, which involves talking to a mental health provider about your thoughts, feelings and anxiety symptoms.

Several forms of therapy are used to treat anxiety, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy. As part of therapy, you may learn new skills for dealing with feelings or thoughts that cause you to feel anxious, or directly confront your fears in a safe environment.

Our guide to therapy for anxiety provides more information about how therapy works, as well as what you can expect from psychotherapy.

Many forms of psychotherapy can be done one-on-one or in a group setting. We offer individual therapy and support groups for anxiety and other mental health conditions online, allowing you to access help from a mental health professional from your home.

Entering a Substance Abuse Treatment Program

If your anxiety is related to an alcohol use disorder or substance use disorder, you may benefit from addiction treatment.

A variety of different methods are used to treat substance addiction, including medications that suppress withdrawal symptoms, behavioral therapy, treatment for mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression, and long-term follow-up to reduce your risk of relapse.

Make sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have a substance use disorder that you think is causing you to experience anxiety.

Making Changes to Your Habits and Lifestyle

Anxiety often improves with changes to your habits and daily life, including small changes that can be easy to implement.

Try to exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, spend time with friends and family and limit your intake of caffeine. Some relaxation techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing, may help to control some of your anxiety symptoms and allow you to calm your mind.

Your mental health provider may suggest making lifestyle changes while you use medication to control your symptoms or take part in therapy for anxiety. It’s important to remember that these habits can complement the effects of other treatments, not replace them entirely.

Our guide to living with anxiety shares other techniques, habits and lifestyle changes that may help you to gain more control over your anxiety symptoms.

online psychiatrist prescriptions

talk to a psychiatry provider. it’s never been easier

Learn More About Treating Anxiety

Anxiety is an extremely common issue that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. Many risk factors are associated with anxiety, including exposure to stressful events, a family history of anxiety disorders, and the use of certain types of medication.

If you’ve noticed persistent or severe feelings of anxiety after using a new medication, it could be a causative factor. Even then, don’t stop taking your medication — reach out to your healthcare provider and let them know immediately.

The best way to get help for anxiety is to talk to a licensed mental health provider, either locally or from your home via an online psychiatric evaluation.

By seeking help, you’ll take the first step towards treating your anxiety, getting control over your feelings and improving your quality of life.

Interested in learning more about anxiety before you take action? Our detailed guide to anxiety discusses what anxiety is, how it can affect your moods and how it’s treated. You can also learn more about dealing with anxiety using our free online mental health resources.

33 Sources

Hims & Hers has strict sourcing guidelines to ensure our content is accurate and current. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We strive to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references.

Anxiety Disorders. (2018, July). Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders
Anxiety. (2021, September 20). Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/anxiety.html
Substance-induced anxiety disorder. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://dictionary.apa.org/substance-induced-anxiety-disorder
What is ADHD? (2021, September 23). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/facts.html
Prescription Stimulants DrugFacts. (2018, June). Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/prescription-stimulants
ADDERALL XR®. (2013, November). Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/021303s026lbl.pdf
Daly, J.W., Holmén, J. & Fredholm, B.B. (1998, December 16). Is caffeine addictive? The most widely used psychoactive substance in the world affects same parts of the brain as cocaine. 95 (51-52), 5878-83. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9889511/
Caffeine for the Sustainment of Mental Task Performance: Formulations for Military Operations. (2001). Pharmacology of Caffeine. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK223808/
Winston, A.P., Hardwick, E. & Jaberi, N. (2018, January 2). Neuropsychiatric effects of caffeine. Advances in Psychiatric Treatment. 11 (6), 432-439. Retrieved from https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/advances-in-psychiatric-treatment/article/neuropsychiatric-effects-of-caffeine/7C884B2106D772F02DA114C1B75D4EBF
Short-Acting Beta-Agonists (SABAs). (2020, April). Retrieved from https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/drug-guide/short-acting-beta-agonists-(sabas)
Albuterol Oral Inhalation. (2016, February 15). Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682145.html
Johnson, D.B., Merrell, B.J. & Bounds, C.G. (2021, June 25). Albuterol. StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482272/
Sinclair, L.I., et al. (2009, June). Antidepressant-induced jitteriness/anxiety syndrome: systematic review. The British Journal of Psychiatry. 194 (6), 483-90. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19478285/
University of North Carolina Health Care. (2016, August 24). How do antidepressants trigger fear and anxiety? Researchers map the anxiety circuit in the brain and use a compound to limit fearful behavior — an acute side effect of commonly prescribed SSRI antidepressants. ScienceDaily. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/08/160824135045.htm
Hodgens, A. & Sharman, T. (2021, October 16). Corticosteroids. StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554612/
Savas, M., et al. (2020). Systemic and Local Corticosteroid Use Is Associated with Reduced Executive Cognition, and Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Neuroendocrinology. 110 (3-4), 282-291. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31220843/
Thyroid Diseases. (2022, January 27). Retrieved from https://medlineplus. gov/thyroiddiseases.html
Hypothyroidism. (2020, August 29). Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000353.htm
Pseudoephedrine. (2018, February 15). Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682619.html
Don't let decongestants squeeze your heart. (2021, June 21). Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/dont-let-decongestants-squeeze-your-heart
Antihistamines for allergies. (2020, May 30). Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000549.htm
Farzam, K., Sabir, S. & O’Rourke, M.C. (2021, December 13). Antihistamines. StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538188/
Sicari, V. & Zabbo, C.P. (2021, July 15). Diphenhydramine. StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526010/
Ozdemir, P.G., et al. (2014, August). Assessment of the effects of antihistamine drugs on mood, sleep quality, sleepiness, and dream anxiety. International Journal of Psychiatry in Clinical Practice. 18 (3), 161-8. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24673474/
Gabriel, M. & Sharma, V. (2017, May 29). Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. Canadian Medical Association Journal. 189 (21), E747. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5449237/
Hodding, G.C., Jann, M. & Ackerman, I.P. (1980, November). Drug Withdrawal Syndromes A Literature Review. 133 (5), 383–391. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1272349/
Cocaine. (2021, September 1). Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/cocaine.html
Substance use - LSD. (2020, May 10). Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000795.htm
Substance use - phencyclidine (PCP). (2020, May 10). Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000797.htm
Methamphetamine DrugFacts. (2019, May). Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/methamphetamine
Sharpe, L., Sinclair, J., Kramer, A., de Manincor, M. & Sarris, J. (2020, October 2). Cannabis, a cause for anxiety? A critical appraisal of the anxiogenic and anxiolytic properties. Journal of Translational Medicine. 18 (1), 374. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33008420/
Treatment Approaches for Drug Addiction DrugFacts. (2019, January 17). Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/treatment-approaches-drug-addiction
Relaxation Techniques: What You Need To Know. (2021, June). Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/relaxation-techniques-what-you-need-to-know

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Learn more about our editorial standards here.

Mayo Clinic Q and A: Decongestants can sometimes cause more harm than good

By
Cynthia Weiss

March 1, 2022

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I have used decongestants over the years when I'm ill, but my doctor recently said that I should be cautious because nonprescription decongestants can have significant side effects. Is this true?

ANSWER: While many people rely on nasal decongestants to help ease nasal symptoms of a cold or flu, these medications can sometimes cause more harm than good, especially if used improperly or taken by patients who shouldn’t use them.

Examples of commonly used decongestants include phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine.Often these ingredients are included in multisystem cold and flu preparations. Due to the nature of medications, it is important to always read label ingredients for medications and warnings on boxes to know what you are taking and whether it is the correct product, especially if you have certain medical conditions or take other medications or supplements.

Taking an oral decongestant can temporarily ease congestion, but it also can create an increase in your blood pressure and blood sugar, aggravate glaucoma or urinary conditions, increase seizure risk, and affect heart conditions. If you already have one of these conditions, especially if it’s not controlled, this may be a concern. Decongestants can interfere with the effectiveness of certain blood pressure, epilepsy, heart, diabetes or thyroid medications, but also may affect the chronic condition itself. If you have any of the above conditions, check with your primary health care provider or pharmacist before taking an oral nasal decongestant.

Some other common side effects that nasal decongestants can cause include insomnia, nervousness, anxiety and tremor. Side effects are usually more common as the dose is increased. Oral decongestants should never be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MOAIs) or within two weeks of stopping them. MOAIs are used for Parkinson’s disease, anxiety and depression. Also avoid excess caffeine or herbal supplements while taking oral decongestants, as they may increase the risk of side effects through drug interaction. Those who may be taking amphetamines for attention deficit, hyperactivity or weight loss are at higher risk of side effects and should not take oral decongestants without speaking to their health care provider or pharmacist.

In addition, using nonprescription decongestant nasal sprays for more than three or four days can cause worse nasal congestion once the decongestant wears off, a condition called rebound rhinitis. All too often, people think their colds are getting worse, so they increase their use of nasal spray, leading to a downward spiral of more medication use and worsening congestion. The way to reverse rebound rhinitis is to stop the nasal spray in one nostril until that nostril is clear, then stop it in the other nostril and that nostril should clear, as well. Other occasional side effects of nasal sprays may include nosebleeds, headache and rapid heartbeat in susceptible patients. Some prescription medications can cause congestion, but this is uncommon.

It is important to note that children are more prone to side effects from decongestant nasal sprays and may experience sedation, agitation and even, in rare cases, seizures. Keep in mind that other over-the-counter nasal sprays help with nasal congestion indirectly, but are not decongestants. Sprays containing fluticasone, budesonide or triamcinolone are corticosteroids and work differently by overall lessening your nasal passage reaction to allergens. When nasal sprays are dosed, they should be directed away from the septum, or nose center, to help avoid nosebleeds. This can be accomplished by using the right hand to spray the left nostril and left hand to spray the right nostril.

Other factors to consider are products with decongestants that also contain antihistamine, dextromethorphan guaifenesin and acetaminophen. The acetaminophen can add to the daily limit of this medication to cause liver toxicity, while antihistamines can add to urinary conditions, aggravate asthma or other lung conditions, and should not be taken by those with glaucoma. Dextromethorphan can interact with antidepressants. In addition, common energy drinks can contain caffeine or other stimulants, and may contain herbal supplements that interact with decongestants and worsen some medical conditions or increase side effect risk.

Thankfully, symptoms usually last no more than a week and a half. If you have continued congestion, it may be time to visit your health care provider to explore treatment options that may be more effective. It is always best to speak to your primary health care provider before starting new medications. — Michael Schuh, Pharm.D., R.Ph., Pharmacy, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida

Mayo Clinic Q and A: Treating colon cancer

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: A family member recently was diagnosed with colon cancer. After researching potential treatment options, I came across intraoperative radiation therapy. What is the ...

By Chloe Corey • March 28, 2023

How the NHL took the drug Sudafed, banned at the Olympics

Championship. com

April 10, 14:15

Now it is no longer accepted. But it is not exactly. Some players needed to take 20 pills to feel in shape.

"Normal match in Montreal. An hour before kick-off, TV crews start bustling with live coverage, hot dogs are being fried in a coffee shop, and Canadiens goaltender Andy Moog is going through his usual pre-game ritual in the locker room. He takes two Sudafed tablets and takes them down with a glass of water. It's not a matter of health, it's a matter of habit. Moog started taking Sudafed six or seven years ago when he was playing for Boston, when he had a terrible runny nose. Since then, this medicine has become his ritual. Four other Montreal players also take the pills regularly. They say that you need to start your engines to get ready for the game. For these people, the preparation is to open their mouths and send in a couple of little white helpers, ”wrote The Hockey News magazine in February 1998 years.

Video of the Day

That was the first time the NHL was concerned about the doping problem, as hockey players from the best league in the world had to make their debut at the Nagano Olympics, where there was a strict doping control by the IOC. It turned out that sudafed, banned at the Olympics, had long been widespread in the National Hockey League - hockey players called it "rattle pills."

"Some people needed to eat 20 tablets to feel the impulse"

In early February, World Anti-Doping Agency Chief Medical Officer Makoto Ueki issued several stern warnings to the NHL. “Sudafed is not a legal substance, although it can be bought without a prescription. It is forbidden even if you have a cold. I am sure that for the players from the NHL this will become a real problem, we can drown in positive samples. But this is not news, the drug was banned a long time ago. Sudafed contains pseudoephedrine, which can act as a stimulant in large amounts. Even a small dose will be enough to disqualify a player,” said Waki.

Doctors from the NHL vied with each other to express opinions about how irresponsible it was to make such statements about the massive use of these pills and argued that there would be no problems. However, a more detailed study of the issue revealed that the problem really exists. In the late 1990s and early 2000s in the NHL, about 20% of all hockey players used sudafed before a game. This figure was based on an anonymous survey of coaching staffs, but was disputed by the league itself, which claimed that the real use of this tool is much lower, and it is used only for medicinal purposes. The brand names of the pills varied as pseudoephedrine is found in dozens of cold medicines, but Sudafed has long been the most popular. “It was a dirty little NHL secret that got out as the Olympics approached. It would be foolish to deny the fact that this was of great concern to the league, because the drug was not banned in the NHL. Unconfirmed reports of pseudoephedrine abuse by NHL players are plentiful. Personally, one of the former coaches told me that one of his players needed to eat about 20 pills before the match in order to feel the right energy boost, ”wrote Sports Illustrated columnist Michael Farber.

But a little later, with reflections on the influence of pharmacology on the results of matches, the hockey players themselves suddenly began to speak out. One of them was the famous Finn Jari Kurri, who by that time had played 17 seasons in the NHL and was a member of the legendary championship Edmonton. “I may be wrong, but it seems to me that there is a direct link between the use of pseudoephedrine and the growing lack of respect in the league. It has grown a lot in the last 10 years. You take this thing and get scammed. I don’t know if dirty power moves, dirty punches, etc. have started to increase because of this. But the league needs to look into it. Have I taken Sudafed? Yes, once, before the game, when he played for Anaheim, said Kurri.

His colleague Mark Recchi from Montreal spoke more correctly, but admitted that the Sudafed is working. “It helps to reach the peak of activity. Sometimes it causes a rush of emotions right on the ice, you get too excited. I don’t take it anymore, but I used to take pills every 10-15 matches, ”Recky said. In addition to him, his partner in the Canadiens, Brian Savage, also admitted to using Sudafed.

The video can be viewed at the “Championship”

“Pills were just lying on the table, like a bowl of fruit”

The NHL began informing players well in advance of the 1998 Olympics that no form of pseudoephedrine could be taken and that all medications had to be approved by the team doctor, but these measures often didn't work. So, in mid-January - a few weeks before the start of the Games - in the locker of one of the Canadiens hockey players they found pills of the same sudafed, which in Canada was freely sold in pharmacies at a price of $ 7. “We were very careful with the Olympians. First of all, this concerned Brandan Shanahan and Steve Yzerman, ”said in early February 19'98 Detroit Dr. John Wharton. Nevertheless, the unceremonious Shanahan, shortly before the start of the Olympics, blurted out the following in an interview on TSN. “Do I enjoy playing with the Americans as part of the North American All-Star team at the All-Star Game? Well, of course. So I can see if they swallow sudafed or not,” said Shanahan, whose joke was barely put on the brakes. The effect of pseudoephedrine was called similar to that of adrenaline - it increased the ability of the respiratory system, dilated the bronchi, while increasing heart rate and pressure. In addition, the sympathetic nervous system, which controls involuntary muscle responses, including fighting or running, was stimulated. Hockey players admitted that if they took sudafed an hour before the match, then its effect began in 35-40 minutes, already during the warm-up. Side effects were individual - anxiety, hand trembling, but all this passed quickly enough. “You know, when I first started at the Red Wings, Sudafed pills were on the dressing room table like a bowl of fruit. But we quickly got rid of them. According to my estimates, three-quarters of the players on our team took it, ”Wharton, the doctor of the Red Wings, frankly said.

“You know, when I played for Edmonton, I remember someone coming out of the dressing room and rattling a jar of these pills. After that, the name appeared - explosive pills. Everyone was asking, "Does anyone want a rattle?" - recalled the same Andy Moog. As a result, the Nagano Olympics passed without scandals and doping stories, and only one positive case with pseudoephedrine was recorded at the Games - before the final in Sochi 2014, Niklas Backström passed a positive test, who drank the drug for allergies. “We were told that now you can’t take anything even for a cold. It's hard because in winter you always have a cold. It's hard to sleep when your nose is stuffed up, and then you're tired the whole next day, ”said Steve Yzerman. Since then, nothing has been known about the use of pseudoephedrine in the NHL. But who knows what real reasons are sometimes hidden by this or that personnel decision of the coaching staff, which seemed strange to an outsider.

Other, Steve Yzerman, Mark Recchi, World Anti-Doping Agency

Championship.com breaking news today

Chelsea start talks about the possible appointment of Antonio Conte as head coach

PSG want to put pressure on Messi, Ramos and six other players to stay at the club

Desloratadine and Pseudoephedrine | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Adult Medication

This document, provided by Lexicomp ^® , contains all the information you need to know about this medicine, including indications, directions for use, side effects, and when your healthcare provider should be contacted.

Trade names: USA

Clarinex-D 12 Hour

What is this drug used for?

The drug is used to treat blockage of the nasal valve.
It is used to relieve the symptoms of allergies.

What should I tell my doctor BEFORE taking this drug?

If you have an allergy to this drug, any of its ingredients, other drugs, foods or substances. Tell your doctor about your allergies and how they have manifested.
If you have any of these health problems: glaucoma, heart disease, high blood pressure, or urinary tract obstruction.
If you have any of the following health conditions: kidney disease or liver disease.
If you have taken medications for depression or Parkinson's disease in the past 14 days. These include isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline, or rasagiline. An episode of very high blood pressure may occur.
If you are taking any of the following drugs: linezolid or methylene blue.

This list of drugs and conditions that may interfere with this drug is not exhaustive.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines you take (prescription and over-the-counter, natural products and vitamins) and any health problems you have. You need to make sure that this drug is safe for your conditions and in combination with other drugs you are already taking. Do not start or stop taking any drug or change the dosage without your doctor's advice.

What do I need to know or do while taking this drug?

For all patients taking this drug:

Tell all your health care workers that you are taking this drug. These are doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dentists.
Do not take the drug in higher doses than prescribed by your doctor. Taking more than the prescribed amount of the drug increases the risk of serious side effects.
Do not take this drug for longer than the length of time your doctor has prescribed.
Avoid driving and other activities that require increased attention until you see how this drug affects you.
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this drug.
Check with your doctor before using alcohol, marijuana or other forms of cannabis, or prescription or over-the-counter drugs that can slow you down.
This drug may affect the results of allergy skin tests. Tell your doctor or lab worker that you are taking this drug.
If you are 65 years of age or older, use this drug with caution. You may experience more side effects.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The benefits and risks for you and your child will need to be discussed.

Children:

If the patient is a child, use this drug with caution. In children, the risk of excitability may be higher.
This drug is not approved for use in children under 12 years of age. Consult your doctor.

Which side effects should I report to my doctor immediately?

WARNING. In rare cases, this drug can cause serious and sometimes deadly side effects in some patients. Call your doctor right away or get medical help if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that could be associated with serious side effects:

Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red and swollen skin with blisters or peeling, possibly accompanied by fever, wheezing or wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking, unusual hoarseness, swelling in the mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat.
Obstruction of the urinary tract.
Increased or abnormal heart rhythm.
Severe dizziness or fainting.
Dyspnea.
Shiver.
Seizures.
Vision change.

What are some other side effects of this drug?

Any medicine can have side effects. However, for many people, side effects are either minor or non-existent. Contact your doctor or seek medical attention if these or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

Feeling dizzy, drowsy, tired or weak.
Nervous tension and agitation.
Sleep disorders.
Dry mouth.
Headache.
Decreased appetite.
A sore throat.
Nausea.
Anxiety.

This list of possible side effects is not exhaustive. If you have any questions about side effects, please contact your doctor. Talk to your doctor about side effects.

You can report side effects to the National Health Board.

You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You can also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

What is the best way to take this drug?

Use this drug as directed by your doctor. Read all the information provided to you. Strictly follow all instructions.

Take this drug with or without food.
Swallow whole. Do not chew, break or crush.
If you have difficulty swallowing, check with your doctor.

What if I miss a dose of a drug?

If you take the drug regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you can.
If it's time for your next dose, don't take the missed dose and then go back to your regular dosing schedule.
Do not take 2 doses or an additional dose at the same time.
In most cases, this drug is used as needed. Do not take the drug more often than prescribed by your doctor.

How do I store and/or discard this drug?

Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.
Do not expose to heat and light.
Keep all medicines in a safe place. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
Dispose of unused or expired drugs. Do not empty into a toilet or sewer unless instructed to do so. If you have any questions about disposing of medicines, ask your pharmacist. Drug disposal programs may be in place in your area.

General information about medicines

If your health does not improve or even worsens, see your doctor.
Do not give your medicine to anyone and do not take other people's medicines.
Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. Check with your pharmacist. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
If you think you have overdosed, call a poison control center or get medical help right away. Be prepared to tell or show what drug you took, how much, and when it happened.

Consumer Use of Information and Limitation of Liability

This summary information includes a summary of the diagnosis, treatment, and/or drug product. It is not intended to be a comprehensive source of data and should be used as a tool to help the user understand and/or evaluate potential diagnostic and treatment options. It does NOT include all information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks that may apply to a particular patient. It should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a physician based on a medical examination and assessment of the patient's specific and unique circumstances. Patients should consult with their physician for full information about their health, medical issues, and treatment options, including any risks or benefits regarding the use of medications.

Learn more