Over-the-Counter Medications:

Recent Safety Updates for Seniors and Families

By Jack I. |Jack I's Practical Health Note|

Updated November 4,2026 

A medicine sold without a prescription can still deserve a careful second look.

In my earlier article, “5 Essential Steps for Safe Use of Over-the-Counter Medications,” I discussed everyday precautions for using these products. Since then, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued information worth sharing about certain allergy medicines, a common cold-medicine ingredient, and an over-the-counter weight-loss drug.

These updates do not mean that all OTC medicines are unsafe. They remind us to check the ingredients, read current labels, and ask whether a familiar product is still appropriate for our needs.

1. Allergy medicines:

Rare Severe Inching After Stopping Long-Term Use

On May 16,2025, the FDA warned that stopping cetirizine,  commonly sold as Zytec, or levocetriizine, commonly sold as Xyzal , after long-term daily use can cause rare but severe itching.

Reports usually involved people who had taken the medicine daily for several months or years. The itching generally began within a few days of stopping and could affect large areas of the body. The warning applies to both prescription and OTC versions.

What this means for you?: If you use either medicine regularly, discuss prolonged use and any plans to stop with your health care professional. If severe itching develops after stopping, contact your clinician. The FDA warning does not recommend that everyone stop taking these medic (fda.gov)

2. Cold Medicines:

Oral Phenylephrine's Effectiveness Is in Question

Phenylephrine is an ingredient in some OTC products advertised to relieve a stuffy nose.

On November 7, 2024, the FDA proposed removing oral phenylephrine as an OTC nasal-decongestant ingredient  because the evidence does not support its effectiveness at the recommended dose.

The FDA information reviewed for this article still describes a proposed action. It should not be presented as a completed ban or recall.

This action concerns phenylephrine taken by mouth. It does not apply to phenylephrine nasal sprays. Other ingredients in a combination product may still work for symptoms such as pain or fever.

What does this mean for you: Look at the active ingredients on the Drug Facts label. If your cold medicine contains oral phenylephrine, ask a pharmacist about an appropriate option for congestion, taking your medical conditions and other medicines into account. (fda.gov)

3.Weight-Loss Medicine:

New Kidney Warnings for alli

On June 10, 2026, the FDA approved label changes for alli, the OTC form of orlistat, , warning about kidney stones and rare kidney injury.

The updated label advises people who have ever had kidney disease or kidney stones to ask a health care provider before using alli.

It also advises consumers to stop taking alli and seek medical advice if they develop symptoms such as:

• Back or groin pain.

  *  Painful urination or blood in the urine.

 *  Swelling of the feet or legs.

 *  Urinating less frequently.

What this means for you?  A weight-loss product available without a prescription still needs careful consideration. Review your health history with your clinician before using alli, especially if you have had kidney problems. (fda.gov)

Five Safety Habits That Still Matter

Alongside these updates, familiar precautions remain useful:

1. Read the Drug Facts each time. Check the active ingredients, directions, warnings, and recommended length of use.
2. Avoid doubling up on ingredients.  A cold remedy and a pain reliever may both contain acetaminophen. Taking overlapping products can unintentionally increase the dose.
3. Follow the recommended dose. Taking more medicine than directed can cause serious harm.
4. Keep a complete medication list. Include prescriptions, OTC products, vitamins, and supplements—even medicines you take only occasionally.
5. Ask a pharmacist or clinical when uncertain. Bring your medication list and the product package so they can help assess whether it is appropriate for you. (fda.gov⁠, fda.gov⁠, fda.gov⁠)

A familiar Medicine May Need a Fresh Review

As we age, changes in kidney and liver function can affect how our bodies handle medicines. Taking several products can also increase the chance of side effects and interactions. A medicine that suited us years ago may need to be reviewed today. (fda.gov⁠)

Before your next OTC purchase, pause to read the label and ask a question. That small step can help you make a more informed choice.

This article provides general health education . Your pharmacist or health care professional can advise you about your individual medications and health needs.

Sources and further reading

* FDA: Cetirizine and levocetirizine—itching after stopping long-term use⁠

* FDA: Current information about oral phenylephrine⁠

* FDA: Kidney warnings for alli⁠

* FDA: Five medication safety tips for older adults

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