Do you frequently self-medicate? Consider using a drug that requires full awareness of the effect it has on our bodies, so to help, here are a guide to the most common medications, their uses and contraindications.
Antibiotics, mucolytics, antihistamines, laxatives, painkillers, bronchodilators or antiseptics are pharmaceuticals that sound familiar, we have used or are part of first aid kit at home, however, it is common to confuse the names and even their therapeutic action, Indeed it can be very risky, because if a decision is made to ameliorate the symptoms of a cold start or a headache, and instead of administering the right medication swallowed another, the result can be counterproductive and generate reactions Allergic consideration, intoxication, or loss of efficacy.
Self-medication should not be taken lightly, but as an act to be carried out responsibly and with full awareness that not all health problems can be solved through this way, also be taken into account that it is never for others rely on the advice of family physician, who must resort to dispel any doubt about the action of the products that are taken to relieve symptoms and common health problems such as heartburn, fever, diarrhea, cold or cough.
To make an intelligent choice of the ideal drug, here are a guide explaining the most common drug groups that exist in the market, which includes what is its therapeutic action and potential contraindications. It should be clear that none of these recommendations is to replace the advice of specialist.
Antihistamines
They are used to control allergic reactions, in example those in which the immune system (which protects us from external aggression) overreact when something poisonous or allergen (pollen, dust and small flakes of animal skin, for example) enters the body through the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, skin and mucous membranes.
Allergic reactions such as congestion, runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, sore skin, rashes, itching, dizziness, headache and diarrhea are due to the body secretes a compound called histamine, which is why the role of these drugs is to neutralize, destroy or prevent the production of that substance.
The use of antihistamines should be monitored by a doctor because, in addition to comprehensive treatment is required to avoid the factor that causes the allergy, some of these products alter the nervous system and produce drowsiness, thus preventing the full realization of everyday activities such as driving or operating machinery. In general, it is not recommended during pregnancy.
Finally, note that these drugs are also used in the treatment of flu and colds because they help prevent nasal congestion.
credit to: Israel Cortés and Sofía Montoya