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The ANSM recalls that vasoconstrictor drugs, often available without a prescription to treat cold symptoms, expose you to the risk of rare but serious adverse effects. It provides information on how to take them.
Actifed Cold, Humex Cold, Rhinadvil Cold… These medicines in the form of tablets or nasal spray, called vasoconstrictors, can be purchased without a prescription at the pharmacy when you have a stuffy nose in case of a cold. But their use is far from trivial: in a press release published on December 17, the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines (ANSM) alerts on the risks of adverse effects “rare but very serious” vasoconstrictors.
Vasoconstrictors: risk of heart attack and stroke
A vasoconstrictor consists of pseudoephedrine, a decongestant, in combination with an analgesic (paracetamol, ibuprofen) or an antihistamine. It works by decreasing the diameter of blood vessels, which can result in cardiovascular effectsin particular myocardial infarction or some stroke (stroke).
Vasoconstrictors: the rules to follow
If in recent years, “a significant decrease in sales” of vasoconstrictors could be observed (-80% for oral vasoconstrictors and -72% for those of the nasal route between winter 2016-2017 and winter 2020-2021), the ANSM still wishes to “recall the key principles of the proper use of these drugs to limit the risk of occurrence of these adverse effects” in this winter period:
- Tell your pharmacist your medical history: he will be able to tell you if you can take this treatment.
- Always respect the dosage (dose and frequency of intake) recommended by your pharmacist.
- Do not exceed 5 days of treatment: see your doctor if your symptoms persist or worsen.
- Do not combine these medicines with another vasoconstrictor taken by mouth or nasally or another medicine containing paracetamol, ibuprofen or an antihistamine. The composition of the drug is indicated on the main side of the box.
- Do not use any of these medicines in children under 15 years old.
- Vasoconstrictors are strongly discouraged throughout pregnancy and should never be used from the end of the 5th month of pregnancy when they contain ibuprofen. Always seek the advice of a doctor or pharmacist before taking these medicines if you are pregnant.
- If breastfeeding, vasoconstrictors are strictly prohibited.
If you notice the onset of symptoms “which can reflect the occurrence of a stroke or myocardial infarction”, you should immediately stop taking the vasoconstrictor drug and consult your doctor immediately.
Colds: no need for treatment!
Finally, the ANSM recalls that “the cold disappears spontaneously after 7 to 10 days without treatment” : from “comfort solutions” safe can nevertheless relieve symptoms, such as using saline, drinking enough water, sleeping with your head elevated or even airing your home regularly.