Nation IN BRIEF : WASHINGTON, D.C. : Antihistamine Use for Colds Disputed

The antihistamines found in most of the cold remedies on the market may do more harm than good, medical experts said, suggesting they be removed from those products. One of the experts said a shot or two of whiskey before bedtime might be better for a cold sufferer than a nip of Nyquil, a cold medication that is 25% alcohol. While antihistamines are useful in treating allergies, their effect in treating the symptoms of a cold are marginal at best, witnesses told a House panel. The experts said antihistamines have potentially dangerous side effects, such as drowsiness and impaired mental performance. The Non-Prescription Drug Manufacturers Assn. issued a statement defending the use of antihistamines.