NM Poison & Drug Information Center
MSC09 5080
1 University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001

24 Hour Help Line: 1-800-222-1222

Drug Information: Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm
Line: 1-800-222-1222
(Except during University Closures)


 

Business Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8AM to 5PM
Phone: (505) 272-4261
Fax: (505) 272-5892

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New Mexico Poison and Drug Information Center

Cold and Cough Medications

With cold and flu season already upon us, the New Mexico Poison Center advises consumers to be careful when using over-the-counter medications. Side effects from cough and cold preparations frequently occur when people unintentionally take too much!

If you use more than one medicine to relieve symptoms, make sure that the same active ingredients are not contained in more than one product.

Many cough and cold remedies contain a combination of drugs, such as antihistamines, decongestants, cough suppressants and analgesics. In order to avoid double-dosing:

  • Follow dosing instructions precisely.
  • Read and follow warning information.
  • Be aware that aspirin, Tylenol, or ibuprofen is found in many non-prescription products, and combined doses can be toxic.
  • Call the New Mexico Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for more information or if you think someone has been poisoned and needs emergency treatment advice.

Cold and Cough Medicines: Used incorrectly cold and cough medicines can have a stimulant effect on children or cause severe drowsiness. These medicines contain a combination of antihistamines, decongestants, and cough suppressants. Some contain small amounts of alcohol that can cause drunkenness, low blood sugar, and seizures in children if taken incorrectly.

  • Keep all medicines locked up, where children cannot see them or reach them.
  • Always use child-resistant caps, and remember child resistant does not mean childproof.

Call the New Mexico Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for poisoning emergencies, questions about poisons or for poison prevention tips, 24-hours a day, 7-days a week.