In which populations should cough and cold medicines containing sympathomimetic decongestants be used cautiously?

The use of cough and cold medicines that contain sympathomimetic decongestants should be approached with caution in older adults and hypertensive patients due to the potential for these medications to exacerbate underlying health issues. Sympathomimetic agents can lead to increased blood pressure, heart rate, and can cause cardiovascular complications, particularly in individuals who are already at risk due to age or pre-existing hypertension.

Older adults often have multiple comorbid conditions that can be aggravated by the stimulatory effects of sympathomimetics. Hypertensive patients particularly need to avoid these decongestants, as they can lead to a significant increase in blood pressure, putting them at risk for serious cardiovascular events.

Using these medications cautiously in these populations helps to mitigate risks and ensures that patients are treated safely. While young children and adolescents also require careful oversight when it comes to cough and cold medications, the most pronounced risks associated with sympathomimetic decongestants are evident in older adults and patients with hypertension. This population would benefit from alternative therapies for cold symptoms that do not have the same cardiovascular risks.