Beware 3 of the most dangerous medicines in the world – including one found in almost EVERY home

MANY people rely on medicines daily to manage long-term health conditions, treat immediate medical needs, and maintain their overall well-being.

But it’s important to be aware that all medicines can cause unwanted side effects – from mild symptoms like a dry mouth to more serious reactions like life-threatening anaphylaxis.

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All medicines can cause unwanted symptoms, especially if you take them the wrong way[/caption]

Taking medicines the wrong way or mixing certain drugs and supplements can raise your risk of these side effects.

And according to pharmacist Ian Budd, certain medicines are considered more dangerous than others.

The pharmacist for Chemist4U warned of three of the most dangerous medicines in the world – blood thinners, antidepressants and decongestant nasal sprays.

Be wary of blood thinners

Blood thinners, also known as anticoagulants, prevent blood clots from forming and are prescribed to people who have a higher risk of stroke or heart attack. 

This includes people with an irregular heart rhythm, heart disease, those who have had a heart attack and stroke, and those with atrial fibrillation.

But blood thinners can be dangerous if taken incorrectly, warned Budd.

He said: “Blood thinners like warfarin, if not carefully monitored, can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening bleeding.”

Blood thinners can cause bleeding because they make it harder for your blood to clot. 

This can lead to minor bleeding like nosebleeds or bruising, or more serious bleeding like bleeding into the brain or stomach. 

It’s common to experience some degree of bleeding while taking blood thinners – the NHS warns it’s more likely to happen if you’re unwell.

To prevent bleeding while taking blood thinners you should be careful when you do activities that might cause an injury or a cut or bruising.

The NHS suggests it might help to

• avoid playing contact sports or other activities that can cause an injury, such as football, rugby, hockey and horse riding
• wear gloves when you use sharp objects like scissors, knives and gardening tools
• stop wet shaving or removing hair with wax – use an electric razor or hair-removing cream instead
• take false teeth (dentures) or retainers out for a few hours a day, if you wear them, to give your gums a rest – do not wear dentures or retainers that do not fit properly
• tell your doctor, dentist or nurse that you take warfarin before you have any medical or dental procedures or surgery – this includes vaccinations and routine appointments with the dental hygienist

If you experience significant or concerning bleeding, you should seek immediate medical attention. 

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Taking antidepressants in excess could lead to increased risk of suicidal thoughts[/caption]

Approach antidepressants with caution

Antidepressants can be helpful for people with moderate or severe depression.

They’re not usually recommended for mild depression, unless other treatments like talking therapy have not helped.

But in some cases antidepressants can be dangerous, particularly if they’re taken in excess.

Budd said: “Certain antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSIRs), may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts in some individuals, especially in young people.”

According to studies, antidepressants may sometimes cause suicidal thoughts in individuals due to a potential phenomenon where the medication initially increases energy levels before mood fully improves, allowing someone with pre-existing suicidal ideation to potentially act on those thoughts with newfound energy.

This is especially concerning in younger patients where the risk of suicidal behaviour might be higher, although research on this topic is complex and not fully conclusive, with many studies indicating that antidepressants overall reduce suicide risk when used appropriately. 

To ensure antidepressants are safe, it’s crucial to always consult a doctor before taking them, follow their prescribed dosage, inform them about any other medications you’re taking, never abruptly stop taking them without medical advice, and monitor for any concerning side effects.

If you experience any significant issues, contact your doctor immediately. 

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Overuse of decongestant nasal sprays can lead to long-term damage to nasal tissues[/caption]

Be careful with decongestant nasal sprays if you have them at home

Even everyday medicines found in many households can pose dangers if misused.

Decongestant nasal sprays are commonly used to relieve nasal congestion.

But overuse can be dangerous, warned Budd.

He explained: “Overuse of decongestant nasal sprays can lead to rebound congestion, dependency, and even long-term damage to nasal tissues.”

According to the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency), the most common side effects of decongestants, particularly those containing pseudoephedrine, include headaches, nausea, dry mouth, restlessness, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and a rapid heartbeat.

Very rare but serious side effects like Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) and Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome (RCVS) can occur, characterised by severe headaches, visual changes, confusion, and seizures, which require immediate medical attention if experienced. 

Curtis Arnold-Harmer spoke to Sun Health about how overuse of decongestant nasal sprays affected him.

He revealed medics warned he was on the brink of his septum rotting away

How to stay safe when taking medicines

Most medications are safe when taken correctly, but they should always be used with caution, at the right dose, and under medical supervision.

Budd said: “It’s crucial to recognise that all medications come with some degree of risk, and healthcare professionals thoroughly assess the benefits and potential harm before prescribing them.”

Certain groups, such as pregnant women, need to avoid specific drugs due to risks to the baby; for instance, some epilepsy treatments have been linked to birth defects.

If you’re concerned about a medication’s risks, speak to your healthcare provider about safer alternatives.

For example, saline nasal sprays can relieve congestion without the risks linked to decongestants.