Some common pain and fever medicines can raise the risk of bleeding. Cold and flu products can also share the same active ingredients. If you take two products together, you may take too much without knowing it.
A quick label check can help you choose a medicine more safely.
You can buy OTC medicine without a prescription. Still, it may not be safe for everyone.
The right choice depends on your bleeding disorder, treatment plan, age, and other health needs. Medicines and supplements you already take can also affect your choice.
Ask your hematologist, pharmacist, or bleeding disorders care team which products are right for you. Keep a list of medicines they want you to use or avoid.
Aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can affect how platelets help stop bleeding. Some NSAIDs can also raise the risk of stomach bleeding.
Common examples include:
People with bleeding disorders are often told to avoid aspirin and some NSAIDs unless their care team recommends them. Ask before using one to treat a fever, headache, or body aches.
Do not give aspirin to a child or teen with flu-like symptoms unless a medical professional tells you to. Aspirin use during a viral illness has been linked to a rare but serious illness called Reye syndrome.
If a provider has prescribed aspirin or an NSAID for you, do not stop taking it on your own. Talk with the provider who manages that medicine first.
Acetaminophen, found in Tylenol®, does not affect platelets the way aspirin and NSAIDs can. It is often an option for pain or fever in people with bleeding disorders.
But taking too much can cause serious liver damage. Acetaminophen may also be a poor choice for some people with liver disease or other health concerns.
Follow the dose on the label or the directions from your care team. If you are unsure whether it is right for you or your child, ask before taking it.
Many cold and flu products treat more than one symptom. One bottle may contain medicine for fever, cough, and a stuffy nose.
The product name may not tell you every ingredient. For example, you might take acetaminophen for a fever and then take a cold medicine that also contains it. This could lead to a double dose.
Before taking a product:
You may be able to choose a product that treats only the symptom you have. That can help you avoid ingredients you do not need.
A product labeled “natural” can still cause side effects. Some herbs and supplements may affect bleeding or interact with your treatment.
Tell your care team about all the vitamins, herbs, and supplements you take. Include products you use only during cold and flu season.
It is easier to check your options when you feel well. These steps can help:
Keep your approved product list on your phone or near your medicines. Then you can find it when you need it.
A cold or the flu does not always mean you need to change your usual treatment. Follow your care plan unless your team tells you otherwise.
Call your care team if you are vomiting, cannot keep medicine down, or cannot follow your normal treatment schedule. If you take an oral treatment, do not take an extra dose unless your team tells you to.
Contact your bleeding disorders care team if:
Get emergency care for severe bleeding, trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, fainting, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Tell the emergency care team about your bleeding disorder right away. Bring your medical ID or emergency care information if you have it. Ask them to contact your bleeding disorders care team.
Cold and flu medicine can help you feel better. If you have a bleeding disorder, the safest choice may take an extra step. Read the active ingredients, check your care plan, and ask your team when you have a question.
LUX Infusion is elevating infusions into an experience. As a U.S.-based, clinician-led infusion services company, we provide both home infusion and ambulatory infusion center services, bringing clarity, compassion, and expertise to every patient relationship. With faster therapy starts, dedicated patient support, and continuous data sharing with providers, LUX Infusion ensures patients feel supported, and providers and partners can trust in better adherence and outcomes. For more information, visit luxinfusion.com.
If you or a patient you care for is managing a bleeding disorder and looking for an infusion care partner who understands that care extends beyond treatment, we are here. Referring providers can submit a referral on our website. A welcome call goes out within four hours. If you’re a patient, click here.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider, or as legal advice. Please consult a physician or other healthcare professional for your specific health care and/or medical needs or concerns and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here or on our website.
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