Pharmacist Exposes 5 Over-the-Counter drug ”Rip-offs”
Are you wasting money on ineffective over-the-counter medications? Dr. Grant Harting, pharmacist and founder of the drug price comparison website CrushCost, says many common remedies fall short, labeling some as “absolute garbage.” He urges consumers to opt for cheaper,equally effective alternatives.
harting’s recent exposé highlights five widely used drugs he believes are overpriced and underperforming. His recommendations offer valuable insights for budget-conscious consumers seeking relief from common ailments.
ZzzQuil: A Costly Sleep Aid?
ZzzQuil, a popular sleep aid containing the antihistamine diphenhydramine, tops Harting’s list.While acknowledging its effectiveness, he points out its relatively high price point of around $12. He suggests exploring less expensive alternatives with comparable results. The Mayo Clinic cautions against long-term use of diphenhydramine due to potential dependence and side effects like drowsiness and dry mouth.
Colace: A Laxative Under Scrutiny
Next on Harting’s list is Colace, a laxative containing docusate sodium. Citing a 2021 study in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, Harting claims docusate sodium’s effectiveness is comparable to a placebo.He advocates for fiber supplements like metamucil or benefiber, containing psyllium husk, as more effective and beneficial for gut health.
Mucinex: Cough Relief Questioned
Mucinex, containing guaifenesin to thin mucus, is another drug Harting questions.He cites recent research suggesting its limited impact on cough relief, particularly for respiratory infections like bronchitis. He proposes saline nebulizers or generic liquid decongestants as more effective and affordable alternatives.
Sudafed: Prescription vs.over-the-Counter
Harting also targets Sudafed, noting the FDA’s findings that its phenylephrine hydrochloride component is ineffective after intestinal metabolism. He recommends the prescription version containing pseudoephedrine hydrochloride, acknowledging its increased effectiveness but also the potential side effect of elevated blood pressure.
Prevagen: Memory Supplement Under fire
Harting criticizes prevagen, a memory-enhancing supplement with a price tag ranging from $40 to $70. He highlights the 2017 lawsuit filed against its marketer by the Federal Trade Commission and New York State Attorney General for false advertising, calling its claims a “clear fraud.” Harting bluntly states that prevagen is “completely ineffective.”
Harting’s overall message is clear: Consumers should carefully consider generic brands and alternatives before purchasing over-the-counter medications. By making informed choices, they can save money and ensure they’re receiving effective treatment.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting or stopping any medication.
