Alka-Seltzer ‘Non-Drowsy’ Cold Meds Make You Sleepy, Suit Says

Despite their name, Bayer Healthcare LLC’s popular Alka-Seltzer “non-drowsy” cold medicines can make people sleepy, four consumers allege Tuesday in a proposed class action in a New Jersey federal court.

The labels of Alka-Seltzer-branded “non-drowsy” over-the-counter cold and flu medicines that contain the active ingredient Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide prominently say they are “non-drowsy” and “day” products, the lawsuit says.

This portrayal makes consumers think these Alka-Seltzer products are meant for use during waking hours, Maureen Carrigan, Kerry Lamons, Nancy Zide, and Khari Wheeler allege.

The consumers say they became unexpectedly drowsy after taking various “non-drowsy” cold and flu relief products. No ...