GENERIC NAME: PSEUDOEPHEDRINE - ORAL (sue-doh-eff-ED-rin)

BRAND NAME(S): Afrin, Afrinol, Chlor-Trimeton, Novafed, Sudafed

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Pseudoephedrine is used to provide relief from the nasal or sinus congestion caused by allergies or the common cold, or ear congestion caused by inflammation or infection.

HOW TO USE: It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication, unless your doctor instructs you to do otherwise. Sustained-release or long acting tablets and capsules must be swallowed whole. Chewing or crushing them will destroy the long action and may increase side effects. If symptoms do not improve after 7 days or are accompanied by a high fever, notify your doctor. Do not increase the dose or take this more frequently than recommended.

SIDE EFFECTS: Mild stomach upset, trouble sleeping, dizziness, headache, nervousness, or loss of appetite may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: fast/irregular heartbeat, difficulty urinating, uncontrolled shaking or tremor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare, but very serious side effects occur: seizures, chest pain, mental/mood changes. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking pseudoephedrine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: pre-existing heart problems, kidney or liver disease, lung disease, emphysema, high blood pressure, overactive thyroid, diabetes mellitus, glaucoma, difficulty urinating or an enlarged prostate, history of seizures. This drug should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Pseudoephedrine passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Using this drug while breast-feeding is not recommended.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

Raynaud's Phenomenon - Raynaud's Phenomenon (RP) is a condition in which the fingers and/or the toes change color after exposure to temperature changes or emotional events. The skin discoloration occurs when the blood vessels spasm, causing a diminished blood supply to the local tissues. The digit(s) first turn white because of the diminished blood supply, then they turn blue because of prolonged lack of oxygen, and finally, they turn red when the blood vessels reopen, causing a local "flushing" phenomenon. RP primarily affects women, and its cause is unknown. Protecting the fingers and the toes from cold, trauma, and infection prevents complications from Raynaud's phenomenon. Source:MedicineNet Common Cold - Get the facts on common cold causes (virus), symptoms, treatment, how long a cold lasts, how it's transmitted, how to avoid colds and home remedies for this contagious illness. Source:MedicineNet Read 14 more pseudoephedrine-oral related articles ... FDA Panel Says Cold Drug Is Effective