You get home from a night shift at 7 a.m. and plan to sleep after breakfast. Now add a stuffy nose and a bottle of “nighttime” cold medicine. Before you take it, you’ll want to know how it could affect your next shift and any driving in between.
Check the warnings against your schedule
Some cold medicines can cause drowsiness or make it harder to focus. The FDA warns that some medication effects can last for hours or even into the next day. Certain medicines can also slow your reactions even when you don’t feel drowsy.
Read the Warnings and Directions sections of the Drug Facts label. Look for cautions about driving or operating machinery, and follow them. If you’re unsure how those warnings fit your schedule, ask a clinician or pharmacist before taking the medicine.
Tell your Nice clinician what your day looks like
If you’re eligible for and enrolled in Nice Healthcare through BHT, you can book a $0 virtual primary care visit to discuss your symptoms. Appointments are usually available within a day. Check the app for a time that works with your sleep schedule.
Be specific about your routine: “I work from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., drive home, and sleep around 8 a.m.” Mention whether your work involves driving, equipment, or other tasks that require close attention.
A few questions can help you leave with a clearer plan:
- Could this medicine make me drowsy or affect my focus?
- When would it be safe for me to drive or operate equipment?
- Is there another option that fits my symptoms and work schedule?
Share the other medicines and supplements you take, too. Your clinician can consider possible interactions as you talk through your options.
Take a photo before your visit
If you’ve already got cold medicine at home, take clear photos of the package and its Drug Facts label. Have them handy during your visit so your clinician can review the exact product with you.
BHT’s October toolkit includes a Cold & Flu Cabinet Check to help you review your supplies. As you go through it, flag any label warnings you’d like to ask about before your next sick day.
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