High Blood Pressure Brought On by Cold Medicine

QUESTION: As usual, I have had my one bad cold this year, but the experience
became a frightening one when I developed a terrible headache, became upset
and jittery to the point where my hand trembled. I visited my physician who
discovered that my blood pressure was high. He told me that all of the
symptoms were brought on by the cold medicine I had been taking. He was
right, too, for they all disappeared when I stopped the medicine. I think you
should warn your readers about this danger.
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ANSWER: That is an excellent suggestion, although all who take over the
counter cold medications may not undergo the number or extent of the side
effects which you experienced. In fact most cold preparations are very safe
and side effect free when taken as directed and when the patient is not unduly
sensitive to a chemical that is commonly found in nonprescription cold
preparations. Its called phenylpropanolamine, and it is used in over 100
different medications; used as an appetite suppressant for weight control, in
nasal decongestants and cold medications, and for the premenstrual syndrome.
Some times it is passed as a "street drug" as a substitute or combined with
amphetamines. When cold sufferers mix several combination preparations in the
hopes of a speedier recovery, they run the risk of taking too much of this
ingredient, which may be a component of all--or at least some--of the over the
counter products. Like any other medication, phenylpropanolamine must be used
with respect, and only in doses indicated on the bottle. Patients with
hyperthyroidism, hypertension or other heart related disease or diabetes
should be most cautious. Of course if you are taking any other medication you
should consult your pharmacist or physician before adding additional
medications to your routine. The adverse effects associated with this
medication most commonly affect the cardiovascular system, but can even
include severe psychological disturbances, bizarre behavior and
disorientation. To avoid these risks, read the label carefully, and be sure
not accidentally "overdose" on a medication which can offer relief when
properly used.