USES: Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) is used to treat nasal congestion associated with the common cold, allergies, hay fever, or other respiratory illnesses (e.g., rhinitis, sinusitis). It has also been used as a nonprescription diet-aid for weight loss.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Long-acting (delayed-release) products must be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew. When used for an extended period, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing; your treatment may also be stopped or changed. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, dry mouth, restlessness, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: irregular heartbeat, vision problems, rash, nervousness, increased nasal congestion. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion, chest pain, difficulty urinating. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, heart disease, high blood pressure, lung problems (e.g., asthma, emphysema), thyroid problems, diabetes, glaucoma, prostate trouble, depression, allergies (especially drug allergies). This drug may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Allergic rhinitis symptoms include an itchy, runny nose, sneezing, itchy ears, eyes, and throat. Seasonal allergic rhinitis (also called hay fever) is usually caused by pollen in the air. Perennial allergic rhinitis is a type of chronic rhinitis and is a year–round problem, often caused by indoor allergens, such as dust, animal dander, and pollens that may exist at the time. Treatment of chronic rhinitis and post nasal drip are dependant upon the type of rhinitis condition.
The common cold (viral upper respiratory tract infection) is a contagious illness that may be caused by various viruses. Symptoms include a stuffy nose, headache, cough, sore throat, and maybe a fever. Antibiotics have no effect upon the common cold, and there is no evidence that zinc and vitamin C are effective treatments.
Obesity is the state of being well above one's normal weight. A person has traditionally been
considered to be obese if they are more than 20 percent over their ideal weight.
That ideal weight must take into account the person's height, age, sex, and
build.
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is an irritation of the nose caused by pollen and is associated with the following allergic symptoms: nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, eye and nose itching, and tearing eyes. Avoidance of known allergens is the recommended treatment, but if this is not possible, antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays may help alleviate symptoms.
The purpose of the nose is to warm, clean, and humidify the air you breathe
as well as help you to smell and taste. A normal person will produce about two
quarts of fluid each day (mucus), which aids in keeping the respiratory tract
clean and moist. Tiny microscopic hairs (cilia) line the surfaces of the nasal
cavity, helping to brush away particles. Eventually the mucus blanket is moved
to the back of the throat where it is unconsciously swallowed. This entire
process is closely regulated by several body systems.
Structurally, the nose is separated into two passageways (left and right
nostrils) by a structure called the septum. Protruding into each breathing
passage are bony projections, called turbinates, which help to increase the
surface area of the inside of the nose. There are three turbinates on each side
of the nose (inferior or lower turbinates, middle turbinates, superior or upper
turbinates). The sin...
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