My adult daughter has type�2 diabetes, and we are trying to locate an over-the-counter decongestant approved for people with diabetes, but can’t seem to find one. Is there such a thing?

The general philosophy is that if you need a medicine for an illness, take it! The problems related to diabetes (usually high blood sugar) can be dealt with. Short-term elevations of blood sugar are not what we worry about in relation to the complications of diabetes. Over-the-counter medications can be purchased with care. Look at the label to see what the medication contains, but the small amounts of sugar in a medicine taken for a short time probably is not enough to significantly raise blood sugar.

There are several over-the-counter preparations available at any local pharmacy. Some of the ingredients may interact with diabetes pills, so it is important for your daughter to double-check with her pharmacist or diabetes team about appropriateness.

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