From the Research
If you're feeling high after taking a cold medicine at the suggested dose, you should stop taking it and contact your healthcare provider immediately. This reaction is likely due to dextromethorphan (DXM), a common cough suppressant in many cold medicines that can cause euphoria, especially in those sensitive to its effects, as reported in a case of fatal cold medication poisoning in an adolescent 1. Other ingredients like pseudoephedrine (a decongestant) can also cause stimulant effects including increased heart rate and a sense of being "wired." Check the medication label for these ingredients. In the meantime, stay hydrated, rest, and don't drive or operate machinery while experiencing these effects. Some key points to consider:
- Alternative cold remedies include acetaminophen for pain/fever, saline nasal sprays for congestion, and honey for cough (if over age 1) 2.
- Your doctor might recommend a different formulation without the problematic ingredient or adjust the dosage.
- Some people have genetic variations affecting how they metabolize these medications, which can intensify their effects even at normal doses.
- A recent study found that antihistamine-decongestant-analgesic combinations have some general benefit in adults and older children, but the benefits must be weighed against the risk of adverse effects 3.
- Another study reported a rare case of drug-induced interstitial lung disease due to over-the-counter cold medicine taken daily for 25 years, highlighting the importance of monitoring for potential side effects 4.
- Antihistamines have a limited short-term beneficial effect on severity of overall symptoms, but not in the mid to long term, and there is no evidence of effectiveness in children 5.