Sudafed, a commonly used medical drug that treats flu-like symptoms, is regularly consumed with another widely used item. Their combined use makes people wonder whether there are effects of mixing it with Sudafed. At Hangover Hospital Key West, we look into Sudafed’s elemental composition to understand its impact when mixed with alcohol. We strive to answer the lifelong question, can you mix Sudafed and alcohol?
While authorities warn people about Sudafed’s use in making meth, they do not outline effects or warn about the drug’s consumption with alcohol. Experts, however, think you could drink and take Sudafed moderately without experiencing common side effects. Despite giving leeway, the practitioners strongly recommend seeking a pharmacist’s advice.
Understanding Likely Effects of Sudafed and Alcohol
The two substances occupy different sectors in the drug world, with Sudafed serving as a stimulant while alcohol acts as a depressant. Their combination could lead to unique side effects like altered awareness and perception.
Note that alcohol alters your immune response, impairing its function to fight off illnesses, and when you take Sudafed, you are sick. Drinking while ill and taking Sudafed might cause lengthening of your recovery time. Both alcohol and Sudafed could cause a rise in your blood pressure.
Sudafed Variants and Ingredients
Generically called pseudoephedrine, Sudafed treats a variety of symptoms associated with allergies, flu, and colds. The well-reputed decongestant narrows small blood vessels, aiding in reducing congestion and swelling.
Sudafed, however, only reduces symptoms of some illnesses such as the common cold without curing them and could cause side effects.
Multiple models of Sudafed only consist of pseudoephedrine. Sudafed Non-drowsy, which has pseudoephedrine-guaifenesin and Sudafed 12 Hour Pressure +Pain, combines its contents with naproxen sodium. Sudafed PE, formulated after lawmakers noted Sudafed containing pseudoephedrine might produce meth, contains phenylephrine.
Sudafed Side Effects
Like any clinical drug, Sudafed might have side effects for some people because of various reasons. Some symptoms you might experience are headache, vomiting, nausea, weakness, and restlessness.
Some other more severe but rare side effects could include breathing problems, psychosis, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, stroke, or heart attack.
Medical experts recommend that patients not mix other drugs that could react with Sudafed’s composition, including selegiline and rasagiline. Alert your doctor about other medicines you take, including supplements and vitamins. Let them know if you have other health conditions during your discussion, as well.
Overdose Symptoms
Alone, Sudafed is not addictive, but an overdose is likely if its dosage instructions are not followed, and its symptoms include:
- Anxiety
- Seizures and high blood pressure
- Rapid heart rate
Laws and Regulations on Sudafed
Ensure states you reside in or visit accept Sudafed or its sale, which is sometimes restricted because of its affiliation with methamphetamine production. Authorities banned over-the-counter sales in several states, including Mississippi and Oregon, with patients mandated to produce a formal prescription.
Final Thoughts
While the interaction of Sudafed versions and alcohol is not regulated, speaking to a physician beforehand is recommended. Moderating or stopping drinking while using Sudafed is recommended since alcohol will only reverse the progress made by the drugs. Contact our hospital for medical care advice, diagnosis, and treatment.