This is because ingredients likepseudoephedrinecan affect the blood vessels throughout the body.

Some drugs may interact with your thyroid medication.

This decreases blood flow to the lining of the nose andsinuses, thereby reducing congestion and the production ofmucus.

cold and flu medication with thyroid disease

Verywell / Emily Roberts

That’s because both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can affect the heart and circulatory system.

Less potentially problematic, but still important to be aware of, isphenylephrine.

It is a weaker cousin of pseudoephedrine, used as a substitute for it in many OTC products.

(However, it’s so weak that it’s no longer considered effective when taken by mouth.)

These decongestants show up in many products, and some brands have products that contain both ingredients.

It’s important to read labels so that you know what you’re taking.

The same may be true for nasal sprays containingoxymetazoline.

People may be at increased risk of cardiovascular side effects if they take pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine and levothyroxine.

This could be especially dangerous for someone who has preexisting heart disease.

you’ve got the option to:

Acupunctureand acupressure may also help to relieve congestion.

Some products also may interact with your thyroid drugs.

Be sure to discuss the use of any OTC medication with your healthcare provider before you try them.

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Harvard Medical School Harvard Health Publishing.Don’t let decongestants squeeze your heart.

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