Your immune system & OTC drugs: A DANGEROUS combo?

Folks, it’s that time of the year…

You’ll do—or take—just about anything to keep your immune system in tip-top shape.

And, in the instance you do get sick, you might be tempted to reach for some OTC (over-the-counter) meds to help you get through the day.

Sure, they may give you some temporary relief…

But an Australian study says these drugs could be sabotaging your immune system in the long-run.

Fortunatelt, you can fight back!

According to a scientific study out of the University of Sydney (Australia), a variety of common OTC painkillers could negatively impact your IMMUNE SYSTEM.

The study specifically looked at the immune responses linked to acetaminophen (Tylenol), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)—like ibuprofen—and opioid analgesics.

While results largely varied from person-to-person, some of findings were eye-opening (and frankly, scary).

They found that a class of drugs called antipyretics—pain relief medications like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, aspirin—showed a tendency to “reduce desirable immune responses.”

Which means you could be left with a weakened immune system – leaving you a sitting duck for whatever nasty bug might come your way.

Again, this wasn’t seen in everyone. But we shouldn’t dismiss the fact that there WERE instances where these medications impacted how the body responds to foreign invaders.

The bottom line?

Research suggests that relying solely on OTC painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs to fight off a virus, bug, or disease isn’t your best option.

Thankfully, there are options that DON’T suppress your body’s natural immune response.

We all know that vitamin C is associated with better immunity. But studies have also found that supplementing with vitamin D, zinc, and even elderberry can improve your immune response and fight inflammation.

Consider stocking your medicine cabinet with these natural solutions instead of the run-of-the-mill OTC drugs. A consistent regimen of these natural remedies could go a long way in supporting your immune system all year long.

To the perils of OTC drugs,

Rachel Mace
Editor, eAlert with contributions from the research team

Sources:

Kubala, Jillian. The 15 Best Supplements to Boost Your Immune System Right Now. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/immune-boosting-supplements

Anderer, John. Common pain relievers can weaken immune system’s defense against infectious diseases. https://www.studyfinds.org/pain-relievers-weaken-immune-system/