Question:
What can you take for a cold

Can you take Alka Seltzer cold medicine? I just caught a cold and took some last night-- I needed relief- I did wait until all the bubbles were gone so it wouldn't fizz in my pouch. Is this okay? rny 3/27/03    — Monique W. (posted on July 25, 2003)

July 25, 2003
Tylenol Cold always works pretty well for me.
   — Cathy S.

July 25, 2003
You probably shouldn't take Alka Seltzer, because I think it contains aspirin and that will damage your pouch. My surgeon cleared me for Tylenol products only. I've used the Cold and Flu medicine and it helped me alot when I had a cold. Also used the liquid cough syrup and was fine. Good luck and hope you feel better! Denise 316/153
   — lily1968

July 25, 2003
I have used Diabetic Tussen (because of the sugar in cough syrup). I have had bronchitis for nearly a month or more and my surgeon said no antibotics.
   — Delores S.

July 25, 2003
I haven't used ANY of the over the counter cold preps for years, even pre-op. Most of them with antihistimines are not the best thing for you. In me, they caused heart palpitations, and also, they have a tendency to raise blood pressure. My PCP always told me to call him if I needed anything for cold symptoms and he'd prescribe. Iusually just rode it out w/o anything. Good luck!
   — Fixnmyself

July 27, 2003
I believe that Alka-Seltzer has aspirin in it and RNY'ers aren't supposed to have that. If you've had RNY, the basic rule of thumb (at least for BTC patients) is that you can have any over-the-counter (OTC) medication that is not a capsule, not larger than a plain M&M, and does not contain aspirin or NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). The easiest thing to do is to take any OTC medication that you might like to take up to the pharmacist and simply ask, "Does this have aspirin or any other N-SAID in it". Of course, you could always check with your surgeon. If you have something on hand at home, just call a local pharmacy and ask the same question. Good luck!
   — Lynette B.