Cold and flu symptoms can leave you exhausted, but drinking hot coffee or tea can provide much-needed energy boost. For optimal relief, pair this beverage with Theraflu Multi-Symptom Severe Cold and Cough Medicine to experience its powerful healing power firsthand.
Many energy drinks contain ingredients like sugar and caffeine that provide a temporary energy boost; however, too much can lead to health concerns such as high blood pressure, jitters and insomnia.
How long after taking medicine can I drink coffee?
Coffee is an indispensable part of life for many, yet certain cold medications contain ingredients which may interact with caffeine and alter how the medication works. Therefore, it’s essential that individuals check the drug label or consult a healthcare professional to see whether consuming caffeine alongside certain medicines is safe.
Some common cold medicines contain stimulants that have similar effects to caffeine in terms of creating feelings of energy or jitteriness, making taking both at the same time more likely to produce unwanted side effects. If these side effects become bothersome or severe, contact should be made with healthcare providers immediately.
People must also exercise extreme caution when taking coffee and certain antidepressant drugs simultaneously. Caffeine has the ability to raise levels of certain tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) like amitriptyline, fluvoxamine, clomipramine and imipramine in the body – increasing risk for serotonin syndrome – which is potentially life-threatening condition.
Mixing coffee with certain blood thinners may also be dangerous. This includes taking aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn) or enoxaparin (Lovenox). Consuming these medications along with coffee increases the chances of bleeding or bruising – especially if taken on an empty stomach.
People living with diabetes must also exercise caution when consuming large quantities of caffeine. Too much caffeine consumption may alter blood sugar levels and increase their risk of hypoglycemia – an unexpected and dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. While amounts suitable for people with diabetes will differ depending on weight and health status, typically no more than 400 milligrams is considered safe per day; which is equivalent to four cups of coffee, 10 cans of soda pop, or two “energy shot” drinks.
As part of your strategy to combat a cold or the flu, it is advisable to stay away from dairy products and beverages that contain caffeine; these can aggravate congestion while weakening your immune system. Incorporating herbal teas like green and chamomile into your morning cup of joe may provide additional relief, or consider pairing this cup of joe with over-the-counter cold and flu medications such as Theraflu Multi-Symptom Severe Cold and cough Medicine or Nighttime Severe Cold and cough Hot Liquid Powder Medicine for powerful, fast-acting relief.
Can I drink noncaffeinated herbal teas while taking cold medicine?
There are various herbal teas that can help ease symptoms associated with colds. Peppermint can help unclog sinuses and nasal passages while its menthol properties may ease coughing and congestion. Most herbal teas don’t contain caffeine; however it may still contain trace amounts depending on ingredients used for manufacturing; to be on the safe side it would be wise to opt for ones labeled as caffeine-free or decaffeinated for best results.
Warm liquids may help relieve a dry cough by loosening mucus in your throat and nose, making it easier for drainage. Sipping water, broth or warm herbal tea throughout the day may also prevent dehydration from worsening your symptoms.
Consuming immune-enhancing foods may speed your recovery faster from a cold. Examples include echinacea, which has been shown to shorten its duration and ease respiratory symptoms; elderberry tea contains anti-inflammatory properties which could soothe cough symptoms more effectively;
A 2018 study discovered that eating high-fiber diet can speed recovery from colds. You should include beans, whole grains, berries and nuts among your choices for maximum fiber intake to promote reduced inflammation and healthy digestion.
Additionally, probiotics may also prove helpful when fighting off a cold. Probiotics contain bacteria that help maintain optimal digestive health as well as boost immune systems; you might want to include Kefir, Miso or Kimchi into your diet for this extra boost of immunity.
Avoid taking too much caffeine while taking medications for colds or flus. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant and may interact negatively with many cold and flu medications, leading to increased side effects including headache, restlessness and insomnia. If you need coffee or tea during this timeframe, be sure to take your medicines at least an hour or so beforehand or afterward.
Can I drink energy drinks while taking cold medicine with other medications?
Most cold medications contain stimulants, and when combined with caffeine (found in beverages such as coffee, tea, energy drinks and some sodas) this can increase side effects significantly. Therefore, it’s strongly advised that caffeine be avoided while taking any cold medications.
Alcohol can also be counterproductive when combatting a cold, as it dehydrates you and reduces your immune system’s ability to fight infection.
Opting for noncaffeinated herbal teas when taking medications can provide soothing comfort to both throat and nasal congestion, while helping increase water consumption which is essential to staying hydrated. You could also add honey or ginger, both natural anti-inflammatories that may alleviate symptoms of sore throat or cough. However, if your symptoms continue to worsen consult a healthcare professional for additional advice about taking your medication properly and when caffeine consumption may return.
