Diving with Decongestion medicine?

[JimmyA24]

I usually have a hard time equalizing when diving and was wondering if using Sudfed(sp?) will help. I don't get drowsy when I use it on land. Will I have problems with it at depth? Also will it increase my chances of having DCS? Thanks

Jimmy

 

[GearHead]

So a search on "Sudafed" and you'll find a lot of information. To summarize what I learned:
Don't take a decongestant to dive on a regular basis.
Don't take a decongestant to dive with any mix rich with Oxygen (increased Tox risk)
Don't take a dose greater than indicated on the package.

The reasoning behind this is all in previous posts if you look for it.

 

[leadweight]

The main risk with using decongestants is the medication might wear off while underwater and cause a reverse squeeze when ascending.

 

[DocVikingo]

Agreed that can be one of a number of concerns with diving on decongestants (e.g., nervousess, drowsiness), but given that many come in long-acting formulations, e.g., Sudafed ® 12 Hour & Sudafed ® 24 Hour Tablets, the diver easily should be able to avoid such "wearing off."

Best regards.

DocVikingo

 

[Ronsch]

I almost always use 12-Hour Sudafed and I dive nitrox whenever I can. Not to say that it's a good thing, but it's worked out ok for me.

 

[Rick Murchison]

Years ago (as a teenager) I found out I couldn't take oral decongestants - they screw up my heartbeat!
I also found that mine is a fairly common reaction to these drugs - even though they are "over-the-counter."
So, my advice is "be real careful what you take."
Rick

 

[Charlie99]

A couple of posts above mention Sudafed and drowsiness.

The decongestant Sudafed / pseudoephedrine hydrochloride is much more likely to cause nervousness, sleeplessness, and exciteability. This effect on the nervous system is the cause of concern about its use with Nitrox.

It's the antihistamines and motion sickness medicines that cause drowsiness in some people.

 

[JimmyA24]

Thanks for the adivce. I guess I will just have to deal with it without the decongestant. My problem is that I get allergies that cause slight congestion problems. I might have to see an ENT about it.

Jimmy

 

[DocVikingo]

You may wish to read the following before making a final decision on using Sudafed (pseudophedrine):

DAN's Take On It ---> http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/medical/articles/article.asp?articleid=51

The Psychometric and Cardiac Effects of Pseudoephedrine in the Hyperbaric Environment ---> http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/409609

IMHO, the real issue is whether your congestion & related illness is serious enough to preclude diving, medication or no.

This is educational only and does not constitute or imply a doctor-patient relationship. It is not medical advice to you or any other individual, and should not be construed as such. Ask your physician about clearance to dive on medication.

Best regards.

DocVikingo

 

[JimmyA24]

Thanks for the links. They were very helpfull.

Jimmy