E-drug: selfmedication policies, guidelines, EDL? (cont'd)
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There is actually some reasonably good evidence for most of the
common OTC medications--the ones used for coughs, colds,
diarrhoea and constipation. For coughs there is some evidence that
dextromethorphan may be useful in adults but not in children. The
rest of the cough concoctions lack any evidence or have been
shown not to work. For colds there is some evidence that first
generation antihistamines, because of their anticholinergic effect,
may help with the cough associated with postnasal drip.
Decongestants help with nasal congestion. The rest of these
products are useless. For diarrhea all of the products are useless or
worse, i.e., dangerous. For constipation the products that have the
best evidence psyllium, senna and lactulose. Anyone interested in
references supporting all of this can contact me and I'd be happy to
provide them.
Joel
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Joel Lexchin MD
121 Walmer Rd.
Toronto, Ontario
Canada M5R 2X8
Tel: +416-964-7186
Fax: +416-923-9515
e mail: joel.lexchin@utoronto.ca
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