The problem with brand names for OTC drugs like Midol is the formulations vary and can change over the years. Without context, you don't know what you're getting. That's why I only pay attention to the actual ingredients, not the brand name.

Years ago there was a version of Midol that contained a multi-function chemical similar to ephedrine that could suppress the appetite, increase blood pressure, affect the dopamine level and other side effects.

Now there are several different formulations of Midol, each slightly different, none of which is any better suited to treating menstrual cramps than a simple dose of ibuprofen. One contains yet another old style and obsolete antihistamine with anticholinergic properties that should be avoided, if not outright banned. Another version of Midol contains diphenhydramine, which should also be avoided as a sleep aid.

Some of those old style antihistamines can interact with psychiatric prescriptions for antidepressants and other meds used to treat bipolar disorder, addiction, etc. These interactions may worsen the symptoms of depression or cause other problems.

Some old style antihistamines like diphenhydramine do serve a legitimate purpose in the first aid kit. I've used the oral and topical ointment versions to treat insect bites, stings and reactions to plants in family and friends who are hyper-sensitive. An emergency room doctor said the quick use of oral and topical diphenhydramine to treat wasp stings around the neck and upper body of my cousin's young son probably saved his life. One moment he was laughing about the shock of being stung so many times. A minute later he was reddening and swelling noticeably and having difficulty breathing and swallowing. I gave him two Benadryl capsules and applied some diphenhydramine ointment to the sting areas, and hustled him off to the ER, which was 30 minutes away.

So I do keep those in my first aid kit, including the one I take on my hybrid bike for group rides to treat the usual scrapes, etc., from minor crashes. A single dose of diphenhydramine for an emergency won't do any harm to the vast majority of people and the potential benefit outweighs the risk in those situations.

But I really wish the FDA would issue more public warnings about the widespread and poorly labeled use of diphenhydramine and other old style, obsolete antihistamines in so many OTC meds. People need to be better informed about what they're taking.

There are also lesser sins among OTC meds like Excedrin, with the same ingredients being repackaged to claim they're specifically great for migraines, etc., when in reality it's just the same dose of aspirin, acetaminophen and caffeine in every variety. But that's not quite as bad as sneaking in unnecessary doses of anticholinergics to unwary and under-informed consumers.