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Question: If I have diabetes, can I use a sinus decongestant?
I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes about a year ago. I have a sinus cold now. I want to take Sudafed or something similar. On the directions to these type of drugs it says not to take if you are diabetic. Is there some other drug that will help to reduce the pressure? Dr. Bruce Biller responds:
Thanks for your question. You are correct that many so-called cold medications have warnings for patients with diabetes. This is to be sure that the patients contact their physicians to determine if it would be safe or not to take these medications. Remember that some diabetic patients may respond to such medications with elevation of blood sugar, elevation of blood pressure, or other undesirable reactions. However, this is certainly not always the case, and I would strongly recommend that you call your physician to get his/her specific advice for you. There are some over the counter cold preparations that are safer for diabetics than others, but, again, only your own doctor who knows you and your health history would be able to advise you accurately. I hope that you feel better soon. Dr. Bruce Biller -- Dr. Bruce Biller is an internist with subspecialty training in endocrinology and a special interest in diabetes. He is director of the Harvard Business School Health Services and physician to the Harvard University Health Services.
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First published October 1, 2004
Last updated July 22, 2008
Copyright © 2004 Consumer Health Interactive
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