Here’s Why Michigan Residents Should Throw Out These OTC Medications

It is officially cold and flu season!

Now that the weather has turned brisk and chill, you are ensuring you and your family stay healthy.

You probably have your tried and true cold and flu medications and remedies that have been passed down.

However, there is an announcement that might have you cleaning out your medicine cabinet immediately.

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FDA Says These OTC Meds Do Not Work

If you suffer from sinus issues, I might have some bad news for you.

A recent study shared that many popular cold and flu medications may not work effectively.

This announcement is crucial for Michigan residents with the long Michigan winter ahead.

The United States Food and Drug Administration announced a proposal that would remove oral phenylephrine.

A common ingredient in many over-the-counter decongestants, the FDA states that oral phenylephrine does not work.

Over The Counter Medications That Have Oral Phenylephrine

What medications have oral phenylephrine?

Once you see what medications are not effective, you might be shocked.

The following over-the-counter medications have oral phenylephrine:

• Sudafed PE,
• Vicks DayQuil
• Mucinex Sinus-Max

CNN Health states that,

"Phenylephrine, found in products like Sudafed PE, Vicks DayQuil and Mucinex Sinus-Max, has been widely used as a nasal decongestant for decades."

Last year, in a preemptive method, CVS stopped selling medications with phenylephrine after an FDA advisory committee found it ineffective.

So, what happens now that this announcement has been made?

The FDA's proposal started a six-month public comment period. After this period, the agency will make its final decision on whether these medications will be pulled from the shelves.

Since there are so many different products under the same brand name, the FDA recommends everyone read the Drug Facts label to see what ingredients are in the medicine.

For more information about this proposal, you can check out the FDA's announcement.