Routinely Overmedicating Can Have Harmful Results

By SUZY COHEN

Q.: My husband plays too much golf and gets a lot of aches and pains. He combines Motrin, Tylenol and aspirin for these relatively minor body aches.

I tell him its too much medicine, but he says to ask Suzy; he won’t listen to anyone else.- R.N., Howell, New Jersey

A.: I agree with you. Millions of people routinely take more medicine than they need, and it can be harmful. Go tell your hubby that Suzy said it’s crazy to take all three of those pain relievers at once; it’s like trying to kill a fly with a shotgun. It could potentially damage his stomach, liver and kidneys. More than 100,000 people die each year at their own hands by misusing medication.

Overmedicating “just in case” is fairly common, but it’s not safe. With analgesics, it’s best to choose one. They all work well; however, their warnings matter so pay attention:

Motrin or Advil (ibuprofen) should be used with caution in seniors, and because it is hard on the gut. It’s dangerous for people who have GI bleeds, ulcers or reflux disease. Some doctors, however, may allow it under certain circumstances. Aleve (naproxen) falls in this category, too.

Tylenol (acetaminophen) is effective but can harm the liver in some people, so it’s best avoided by alcoholics, those with hepatitis or any other type of liver condition.

Aspirin in high doses can thin the blood, so it’s not the best choice for many seniors because they often take blood-thinning drugs or herbs and bruise easily (Plavix, warfarin, heparin, Ginkgo, ginger, fish oils, baby aspirin, etc.).

This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist.” For more information, visit www.tulsaworld.com/ DearPharmascist.

Originally published by SUZY COHEN Dear Pharmacist.

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