Instead of going to a doctor, most people head straight to the medical store and buy over-the-counter medicines, often in colorful packaging, promising quick relief and treating a mild illness.

How dangerous is it to take medicine without a doctor's advice?

With the arrival of winter, complaints of cold, cough, and sore throat become common. Instead of visiting a doctor, most people head straight to the medical store and buy medicines without a prescription. Colorful packaging, quick relief, and the thought of a mild illness, these over-the-counter medicines can often pose a serious threat to health. Experts say that this habit of taking medicines without consultation can damage the heart, brain, liver, and even kidneys. 

Over-the-counter medicines are not always safe 

Dr. Arpita Kulshrestha, a physician at Medanta Hospital in Noida, explains that common OTC medications used for colds and coughs include decongestants, antihistamines, cough suppressants, and pain and fever tablets. People often start taking these without understanding their side effects. Many households already stock up on these medications so they can be taken immediately as soon as symptoms appear.

These medications have a profound effect on the body, and if a person is already taking other medications, the risk of drug interactions increases. Decongestants reduce nasal congestion and ease breathing, but their continued use can have adverse effects. Decongestants reduce nasal congestion and ease breathing, but their continued use can have adverse effects. 

Cough suppressants, pain, and fever tablets 

Overuse of cough suppressants like dextromethorphan can have adverse effects on the brain, leading to dizziness, confusion, unusual behavior, and mood swings. Overuse of pain and fever medications like paracetamol and ibuprofen can cause liver and kidney damage. In some cases, it can also increase the risk of stomach bleeding and heart disease. 

Why do doctors give warnings?

Dr. Arpita Kulshrestha explains that antibiotic resistance is increasing among Indians these days. We take antibiotics for even the most minor problems. This disrupts the balance of gut bacteria in our bodies. Resistance to those medications also develops. By the time we actually need them, our bodies become so resistant that they no longer work. Excessive medication impacts our gut bacteria.