Drug Resistance and Side Effects of Common Cold Medications

Side effects

Hello, Doctor:
Psubity, Debronc 50mg, Augmentin 1g, Allegra 180mg, Stacaine, and Cataflam 25mg are the medications I commonly take for my colds.
Otherwise, I just switch Augmentin 1g for Cleocin 150mg.
I would like to ask:
1.
Will taking the same medications every time I have a cold lead to antibiotic resistance?
2.
What are the side effects of these medications?
Thank you for your time and response.

amy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/12/21

Dr. Lü Shuhui reply Pharmacology

Hi Amy,
Recently, the weather has been quite variable, so please pay attention to the temperature differences and avoid catching a cold again! You mentioned two issues in your email:
1.
Regarding antibiotic resistance, your understanding is correct; long-term use of the same medication can lead to resistance.
However, with antibiotics, if you follow the prescribed treatment by your physician and do not misuse them, the incidence of resistance is very low.
2.
Concerning side effects: Psubity is an antihistamine, and its side effect is drowsiness.
Debronc 50mg is used for cough and cold, with occasional gastrointestinal symptoms and headaches as side effects.
Augment 1Gm is an antibiotic, which may occasionally cause diarrhea and indigestion.
Allegra 180mg is a newer generation antihistamine, which has fewer drowsiness side effects but may occasionally cause headaches, nausea, fatigue, and indigestion.
Stacaine is a medication for the stomach.
Cataflam 25mg is a non-selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and its side effects may include gastrointestinal symptoms, rashes, and allergic reactions.
Lastly, a reminder for you, Amy: if your physician prescribes antibiotics, remember to take them according to the prescribed regimen to avoid the development of resistance.
If you experience diarrhea or indigestion, you can take the medication when you start eating, which may reduce the occurrence of these symptoms.
Wishing you good health,
Pharmacist, Taoyuan Rehabilitation Hospital

Reply Date: 2006/12/21

More Info

When it comes to the medications you mentioned for treating common cold symptoms, it's essential to understand both the potential for drug resistance and the side effects associated with these medications.

1. Drug Resistance
The concern about developing drug resistance primarily pertains to antibiotics, such as Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) and Cleocin (clindamycin). Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve and become less susceptible to the effects of medications that once effectively treated infections. This is often a result of overuse or misuse of antibiotics, such as taking them for viral infections like the common cold, which they cannot treat.
In your case, if you are using Augmentin or Cleocin frequently for colds, there is a risk of contributing to antibiotic resistance. However, if these antibiotics are prescribed by a healthcare provider specifically for bacterial infections, and you follow the prescribed course, the risk of developing resistance is lower. It’s crucial to use antibiotics only when necessary and as directed by a healthcare professional.

2. Side Effects of the Medications
Here’s a breakdown of the medications you mentioned and their potential side effects:
- Psubity (an antihistamine): Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. It’s important to avoid activities that require alertness until you know how the medication affects you.

- Debronc (a cough and cold medication): Side effects can include gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea or diarrhea, and headaches.
- Augmentin (antibiotic): This medication can cause side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and in some cases, allergic reactions. Long-term use can lead to changes in gut flora, which may result in secondary infections like yeast infections.

- Allegra (fexofenadine, an antihistamine): Generally, it has fewer sedative effects compared to older antihistamines, but some users may still experience headaches, nausea, or fatigue.

- Stacaine (a topical anesthetic): Side effects are usually localized and may include irritation or allergic reactions at the application site.

- Cataflam (diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug): Potential side effects include gastrointestinal issues (like ulcers or bleeding), headaches, dizziness, and skin rashes. Long-term use can increase the risk of cardiovascular events.

Additional Considerations
Given your history of using these medications frequently, it’s essential to monitor for any adverse effects, especially gastrointestinal symptoms, as they can be exacerbated by the combination of these drugs. If you experience persistent side effects or any new symptoms, it would be wise to consult with your healthcare provider.

Moreover, if you have any underlying health conditions, such as liver issues or a history of gastrointestinal problems, you should discuss these with your doctor, as they may influence the choice of medication and the risk of side effects.

In summary, while the risk of developing drug resistance is a valid concern, particularly with antibiotics, the key is to use these medications judiciously and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Understanding the side effects of each medication can help you manage your symptoms more effectively and avoid potential complications. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice tailored to your health history and current medications.

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