Common over-the-counter drugs for colds, flu and headaches could be banned after scientists found a link to a rare brain condition - according to reports. Officials are investigating whether the chemical pseudoephedrine needs to be redesignated as dangerous meaning it could be banned or made prescription only.
The chemical is used in the most popular painkillers, decongestants, cold and flu medicines sold in shops across the UK, reports The Mirror. The Pharmaceutical Journal reported the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency is "reviewing available evidence" to decide whether the rules around pseudoephedrine-medicines needed to change.
But Whitehall sources told the Mail Online that any change was unlikely. The drug works by easing swollen blood vessels in the sinuses, which is what causes blocked noses, but there are fears it could be linked to two disorders that can affect the brain.
