When you have a cold or come down with the flu, it’s tempting to load up on over-the-counter medications to make yourself feel better fast. But taking more than the recommended dose won’t land you back on your feet any faster. Why? Because the determined dosage is based on the “therapeutic index” of the medicine, which is the sweet spot where the drugs are most effective and least likely to cause side effects. Taking more than recommended with in that window won’t make the medicine more potent. And taking more than the recommended dosage of some medications can actually cause liver damage over time.

Get more tips and advice for staying healthy during cold and flu season.