COMMON cold remedies are being investigated after experts discovered they could cause killer brain disorders.
This means decongestant medicines – which contain ingredient pseudoephedrine – could be removed from pharmacy shelves.
It comes after a several cases of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) were reported in people taking pseudoephedrine-containing medicines.
PRES and RCVS are rare but serious conditions which reduce blood supply to the brain and can cause major and life-threatening complications.
Decongestants help to ease symptoms of a runny nose by drying up your sinuses.
But, they can also constrict the blood vessels.
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Previous studies have found the medicines pose a danger to people with high blood pressure or heart disease.
According to The Pharmaceutical Journal the UK's medicine regulator said itwas “reviewing the available evidence” in relation to the drugs.
“We keep the safety of all medicines under close review to ensure that the benefits outweigh any risks — the safety of the public is our top priority,” the MHRA said.
“We are reviewing the available evidence regarding the use of medicines containing pseudoephedrine and the risk of PRES and RCVS, which have been very rarely reported with these medicines. We will provide any further advice as appropriate," the added.
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What are the symptoms of PRES and RCVS?
Both PRES and RCVS are rare conditions that can lead to death if not treated.
PRES often causes headaches, vision problems, mental changes, seizures, and swelling in the brain, according to the NHS.
The symptoms of RCVS usually come on quickly and can be serious and life threatening.
The severe "thunderclap" headache is the hallmark sign of RCVS and it may be the only symptom.
This headache often comes on abruptly, lasts for at least fine minutes and is often referred to as the 'worst headache of your life'.
Some people report a surge of high blood pressure and seizures when the headache comes on, experts at verywellhealth explain.
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