There is a lot of OTC stuff that is more dangerous than Blarcamesine...
So it isn't fantasy.
Potentially Dangerous Over-the-Counter Drugs Acetaminophen Taking too much acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol) can be very risky, especially for those with liver disease. While it may be safe when used as directed, recommendations caution against more than 4,000 mg per day for healthy adults because of the risk of severe liver damage with higher doses. Extra caution may be needed in people with hepatic or renal insufficiency.
Because acetaminophen is often in other medicines, it may be somewhat easy to overdose on this ingredient if you’re taking several medicines at once and not paying close attention to the formula.4
The combination of too much acetaminophen with alcohol can be especially harmful, as drinking decreases the threshold for sustaining liver damage.8
NSAIDs (e.g., Aspirin) Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medicines used primarily to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. This group of drugs includes aspirin and ibuprofen.9
Though occasional or intermittent use may be safe, taking NSAIDs regularly can increase the risk of certain side effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding. This bleeding is increased for those who:9
Are older than 65. Have had stomach ulcers. Take blood thinners. Take corticosteroids. Those who drink alcohol may also be more likely to develop stomach-related problems when using NSDAIDs.9
Taking all NSAIDs other than aspirin can also increase your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. The risk of adverse cardiovascular events such as these is higher in individuals who have a history of these kinds of events. For example, someone who has already had a heart attack is vulnerable to having another one and dying if they are treated with any NSAID other than aspirin. 9
Similar to acetaminophen, NSAIDs are found in many multi-ingredient medicines, which can increase the likelihood of unwittingly overdosing. Overdose may result in symptoms such as stomach bleeding, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and convulsions. With treatment, recovery is likely in most cases of overdose.10
Diphenhydramine (e.g., Benadryl) Antihistamines like Benadryl can cause significant drowsiness. The most common danger from this comes from people using it when performing tasks that can be dangerous when drowsy, such as while operating heavy machinery, including a car. Combing antihistamines with alcohol or sedatives can significantly increase the level of drowsiness experienced.11
An overdose on diphenhydramine, the active ingredient in Benadryl, may cause:12
Low blood pressure. Rapid heart rate. Nausea/vomiting. Confusion. Agitation. Delirium. Seizures. Hallucinations. Immediate treatment for overdose on antihistamines can be life-saving. Those who survive the first 24 hours are very likely to recover.12
Dextromethorphan Dextromethorphan is found in over-the-counter cough and cold medicines like Robitussin, Nyquil and Dayquil, Theraflu, Tylenol Cold, and more. 13 At recommended doses, it may be used safely and effectively. Although currently still available for over-the-counter purchase, DXM has unfortunately become a drug of abuse.1,7 Intentional misuse at high doses can result in psychotic symptoms including paranoia, delusions, and hallucinations.14
DXM overdose is possible and can be a medical emergency.13 Drinking alcohol while taking a medicine with DXM can exacerbate symptoms such as drowsiness and further increase the risk of DXM overdose.15 Dextromethorphan overdose symptoms include:13
Very slow, shallow, or stopped breathing. Blurred vision. Extreme drowsiness. Dizziness. Hallucinations. Changes in blood pressure. Muscle twitching. Heart palpitations. Nausea and vomiting. Fever. Convulsions or seizures. Coma. If you suspect someone has overdosed on DXM, call for emergency help right away. Survival is more likely with immediate treatment.13
Laxatives Laxatives are available over-the-counter but may be abused for a variety of reasons, including for weight loss by those suffering from eating disorders. Studies have suggested that as many as 32% of those with anorexia and 75% of those with bulimia may abuse laxatives.16 Excessive laxative use may result in serious health issues including:16
Electrolyte imbalances. GI tract dysfunction. Kidney disease. Cardiovascular disorders.
