I felt the onset of a cold last night and took some Panadol at 6 pm and again just before midnight. It's now 5 am and I may take another dose after my morning walk. My illness supports the notion that the cold virus, as with many other viruses, is always inside us. It only takes a shock to the body in the form of my recent overexertion to weaken the immune system and allow the virus to replicate. To my knowledge, I haven't had any close contact with anyone who was ill.
I haven't been sleeping all that regularly lately which hasn't helped. I don't like taking any medication but I always reach for the Panadol Green when cold symptoms arise. Here is what ChatGPT had to say about Dextromethorphan:
Dextromethorphan (DXM) is a medication commonly used as a cough suppressant. It belongs to a class of drugs known as antitussives. Here are some key points about dextromethorphan:
Purpose: Dextromethorphan is primarily used to relieve coughing. It helps to suppress the cough reflex by acting on the brain's cough center.
Over-the-Counter Availability: Dextromethorphan is available over the counter in many countries, often found in various cough and cold medications. It is commonly found in syrup or capsule form, sometimes combined with other ingredients such as expectorants or decongestants.
Effects: When taken as directed, dextromethorphan is generally safe and effective in relieving coughing. It can provide temporary relief from persistent or irritating coughs.
Recreational Use: Dextromethorphan can produce psychoactive effects when taken in large doses or in ways not recommended. Some individuals misuse or abuse dextromethorphan for recreational purposes, seeking its dissociative or hallucinogenic effects. This is known as "robotripping" or "dexing." Misuse of dextromethorphan can be dangerous and should be avoided.
Dosage and Precautions: It is essential to follow the recommended dosage instructions and guidelines provided on the medication packaging. Taking excessive amounts of dextromethorphan can lead to adverse effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, and in rare cases, even more severe reactions. It is important to be cautious and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Drug Interactions: Dextromethorphan may interact with certain medications, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and other substances that affect serotonin levels. These interactions can lead to a potentially serious condition called serotonin syndrome. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about any medications or substances you are taking before using dextromethorphan.
As with any medication, it is advisable to read and follow the instructions and warnings provided by the manufacturer and consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns about the use of dextromethorphan.
Here is what ChatGPT had to say about Pseudoephridrine HCl:
Pseudoephedrine HCl is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as decongestants. It is commonly used to relieve nasal congestion caused by various conditions, such as allergies, sinusitis, or the common cold. Here are some key points about pseudoephedrine HCl:
Decongestant Properties: Pseudoephedrine acts as a vasoconstrictor, which means it narrows the blood vessels in the nasal passages. By doing so, it helps reduce swelling and congestion, making it easier to breathe through the nose.
Over-the-Counter Availability: Pseudoephedrine is available over the counter in many countries, often found in combination with other ingredients in cold and allergy medications. It is typically available as tablets or capsules.
Nasal Congestion Relief: Pseudoephedrine is primarily used to relieve nasal congestion, including stuffy or blocked nose symptoms associated with respiratory conditions. It can help alleviate discomfort and improve breathing.
Duration of Action: Pseudoephedrine's effects typically last for a few hours, providing temporary relief from congestion. The duration can vary depending on the formulation and individual response.
Potential Side Effects: While pseudoephedrine is generally safe for most people when used as directed, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects may include increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, nervousness, restlessness, insomnia, and dry mouth. It is important to adhere to the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Legal Considerations: Pseudoephedrine is a regulated substance due to its potential use in the illicit production of methamphetamine. In many countries, it is sold behind the pharmacy counter or subject to purchase restrictions to control its distribution and prevent misuse.
It is important to read and follow the instructions and warnings provided by the manufacturer and consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns about the use of pseudoephedrine HCl. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific health needs and any medications you may be taking.
Panadol is a brand name for paracetamol and its analgesic and antipyretic effects are well known. Of course I'm mindful that "taking excessive amounts of paracetamol can be harmful and may cause liver damage". I was diagnosed with a fatty liver back in 2009, during a medical checkup but never found about it until 2015 when I read the medical report.
After my gall bladder removal in 2016, my liver function test came back normal so that was a positive. It would be interesting to know if I still have a fatty liver after many years of sobriety but I don't want to submit to any medical procedures unless I have to. Hopefully I'll be well again soon and can discontinue the use of this medication.
