Are You A Drugstore Cowgirl?

It's not only Rx or illegal drugs that can lead to abuse.

You rely on your allergy pill to help you fall asleep on a sneezy night. So what's the harm in taking it simply for help nodding off? Plenty, says Edward P. Krenzelok, director of the Pittsburgh Poison Center. "Save these medicines for when you really need relief, because they often have multiple ingredients, including one that can raise blood pressure," he says. "Nonprescription doesn't mean nontoxic." If you can live with a little discomfort without a pill, that's best. Follow this be-smart guide.

Cold and allergy meds

• Why not to pop them casually You don't need the extra chemicals to fall asleep.
• Take them only when You're coughing or sneezing so much, you can't work.
• If you want to skip the pill A humidifier helps ease congestion and stuffiness.

Laxatives

• Why not to pop them casually Chronic use may cause the bowel to depend on them and lead to cardiac problems.
• Take them only when You really need relief—and use them for two days, tops.
• If you want to skip the pill Drink lots of water, eat fiber-rich foods and exercise.

Sleep aids

• Why not to pop them casually These pills can be psychologically addictive.
• Take them only when You need zzz's for a major A.M. event but can't fall asleep.
• If you want to skip the pill Don't eat late; wind down before bed.