Understanding the Importance of Following Instructions on Cough Medicine
Coughs can be extremely annoying, especially when you’re trying to sleep or concentrate on work. It is for this reason that cough medicine has become a popular over-the-counter remedy. However, many people tend to disregard the instructions on the label, taking more than recommended or using it for a longer period than directed. This can be very dangerous, and here’s why:
The Importance of Dosage
Cough medicine contains active ingredients that help to suppress the cough and alleviate other symptoms such as congestion and sore throat. Overdosing on these ingredients can cause adverse effects like drowsiness, dizziness, hallucinations, and even death. It is, therefore, essential to follow the instructions on the label, which usually indicate the recommended dosage based on your age, weight, and nature of the cough. Consulting with a pharmacist or doctor is also recommended to avoid any complications.
The Duration of Treatment
Like any other medication, cough medicine is meant to be used for a specific period, after which you should stop and seek medical attention if the cough persists. Taking cough medicine for too long can cause addiction or dependence, leading to withdrawal symptoms such as tremors or seizures. Pause your medication use and follow the instructions written to identify when to resume taking it or when to stop completely and look for a different cure if it does not work.
Possible Interactions with Other Drugs
If you’re taking any other medication or supplements, you must read the label on cough medicine carefully, seeking advice from a pharmacist or doctor if unsure of the interactions. Drugs like antidepressants, sedatives, and muscle relaxants have the potential to interact dangerously with cough medicine, so you must avoid combining them without prescription. This type of risk can degrade your health and contribute to an unwanted result.
The Importance of Age Restrictions
Cough medicines are formulated with different ingredients based on the age of the intended users. Children and infants have a lower tolerance for some of these drugs, and their dosage is usually lower than that of adults. The label on cough medicine will indicate restrictions based on age to ensure your safety and well-being. Never give cough medicine intended for adults to children or vice versa, as this can cause unintended harm.
The Bottom Line
There’s no doubting the efficacy of cough medicine in treating coughs and respiratory tract infections. However, you must follow the instructions on the label to a tee to ensure its efficacy and avoid any negative effects. Success in treatment is characterized by an equal effort on the part of the sufferer to comprehend symptoms and follow the medication’s instructions to the letter to get back to full health. Always consult with a doctor or pharmacist if unsure of the medication or its purpose before taking it.
