This is the first time I'm (really) sick as a Type1 diabetic and I was wondering if I can take over the counter cough/cold drugs? Seems like every package I look at (NyQuil, Contact, cough syrups), say not to take them if you're diabetic. Is it the sugar content or the alcohol or both? Maybe the chemicals themselves?

Truth be told, I took 1/2 the perscribed amount of Dayquil for 6-11 yr olds last night. I just couldn't breath - literally. I am most concerned for my lungs (since having pneaumonia a few years ago...every cold ends up in my lungs). I'm not one to take ANY drugs unless absolutely necessary and I'm very nervous about taking them as an insulin dependent diabetic. The bit I did take last night (2:00am) really helped (got to sleep :-) but my fasting was borderline hypo.

I see my family doctor tomorrow but I am currently without a CDE or nurse and my only other option is an Endo "on-call" at the hospital. Mine is unavailable today. Can anyone offer suggestions, please? I'm sure there are things to know like when to take the medicine and how much and what kind but I know nothing about them at this time.

Thanks for any help you can provide. Cheers,
- Vikingirl

P.S. I'm due for my HBA1C test this week, too. Guess I should postpone so meds don't mess up the results, right? How long do I wait? Thanks, all!

There are products called "Tussin" or "diabetic Tussin" that do not contain sugar.

Frankly, I've always been able to use the regular products, as the amount taken does not seem to affect my blood sugar all that much. But then, if I get a really bad cough, my doctor prescribes Tussionix, which is a heavy narcotic and doesn't have much sugar in it.

Also, if you're on humalog, you can compensate for the extra sugar if necessary. Just test more frequently to see how the medication affects your blood sugar.

Ruth

Thanks for the reply, SamQKitty. Much appreciated :-)

I took 1/2 the "kid's dose" of NyQuil last night again and woke up with a 3.2 reading (again). Think maybe I need to have a bigger snack at night? Trial and error I guess, eh?

Thanks again for the response.