When feeling unwell with a cold, many reach for over-the-counter medication for relief. While these remedies alleviate symptoms like sneezing and congestion, some individuals experience an unexpected side effect: digestive upset, specifically diarrhea. This reaction is a potential outcome of certain ingredients in cold and flu preparations.
The Connection to Digestive Upset
Cold medicines can cause diarrhea. Medications affect the digestive system through several mechanisms. Some ingredients directly irritate the gastrointestinal tract lining, leading to increased bowel movements. Other components might have an osmotic effect, drawing excess water into the intestines, resulting in loose, watery stools. These disruptions can also alter beneficial gut bacteria, leading to symptoms like abdominal cramping, bloating, and increased stool frequency.
Common Culprits in Cold Medications
Several ingredients commonly found in cold medications can contribute to digestive disturbances.
Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners, such as sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, sucralose, and erythritol, are frequently used in liquid formulations or sugar-free varieties. These sugar alcohols are not fully absorbed and can draw water into the intestines, leading to an osmotic laxative effect.
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin, are common pain relievers and fever reducers. They can irritate the gastrointestinal lining, potentially causing stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea. This irritation occurs because NSAIDs can inhibit protective prostaglandins in the stomach and intestines.
Expectorants and Decongestants
Expectorants, such as guaifenesin, are designed to thin mucus. High doses can sometimes cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Another expectorant, potassium iodide, can also list diarrhea among its side effects. Decongestants like pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine may also list mild digestive upset and diarrhea as possible side effects.
When to Be Concerned and What to Do
If you experience diarrhea while taking cold medicine, staying well-hydrated is important to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Drinking water, clear broths, and rehydration solutions can help prevent dehydration. Opting for a bland diet that includes foods like bananas, rice, toast, and plain crackers can also help settle your stomach. Avoiding dairy products, fatty, spicy, or high-fiber foods, as well as caffeine and alcohol, might reduce digestive irritation.
While medication-induced diarrhea often resolves once the medication is stopped, certain signs warrant medical attention. Seek advice from a healthcare professional if the diarrhea is severe, persists for more than two days, or is accompanied by signs of severe dehydration such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, reduced urination, or dizziness. Additionally, consult a doctor if you notice blood in your stool, experience a high fever, or have intense abdominal pain. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying issue.