People's Pharmacy

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Popular Heartburn Drug Goes OTC

Posting Date: 08/18/2003

I too was on medication for hypertension and had a terrible cough. I looked up my medication and found a nagging cough listed as a side effect. My doctor changed my medication and the cough went away. I hope that woman will look into this possibility.

A. Other readers suggested that the woman with the disruptive cough might actually be the victim of an ACE inhibitor reaction. Many blood pressure medicines such as Accupril, captopril, enalapril, Prinivil or Zestril can trigger a persistent cough that does not respond to cough syrup. Blood pressure drugs should never be stopped without medical supervision, but a person having a problem with cough as a side effect should talk to the doctor about an alternate medication.

People should not have to endure drug side effects such as coughing, dizziness, dry mouth, headache or swollen ankles. Readers who would like an overview of options may order our Guide to Blood Pressure Treatment. Please send $2 in check or money order with a long (no. 10) stamped (60 cents), self-addressed envelope: Graedons' People's Pharmacy, No. B-67, P. O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.

Q. I hate creamy sunscreens. They make me feel slimy. Can you suggest any that won?t make be feel like a greased pig?

A. You may wish to look for a gel-type sunscreen. They have an alcohol base that doesn?t feel slippery once it dries. Brands include Banana Boat Active Sport, Bull Frog Quik Gel, Coppertone Gel and Vivant Clear Gel.

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In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of this newspaper or e-mail them via their Web site: www.peoplespharmacy.org. Their newest book is The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies (St. Martin's Press).