pseudoephedrine (Oral, Afrinol, Sudafed)

• Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant used for reducing nasal congestion caused by allergies or the common cold. Pseudoephedrine causes blood vessels in the nasal passages to shrink (vasoconstrict). Vasoconstriction reduces nasal congestion by preventing fluid from draining from blood vessels into nasal passages. Pseudoephedrine also directly stimulates beta-adrenergic receptors and causes relaxation of bronchioles, as well as increased heart rate and contractility.
• The FDA approved pseudoephedrine in August 1975.

What brand names are available for pseudoephedrine?

Sudafed, Nexafed, Zephrex-D

Is pseudoephedrine available as a generic drug?

Yes

Do I need a prescription for pseudoephedrine?

No

• Pseudoephedrine is used for treating nasal and sinus congestion caused by the common cold or allergies.

Common side effects of pseudoephedrine include:

• Tremor
• Restlessness
• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Nervousness
• Possible serious side effects of pseudoephedrine include:
• High blood pressure
• Heart attack
• Abnormal heartbeats
• Ischemic colitis

Pseudoephedrine should not be used by people with severe hypertension or coronary artery disease. It should be used with caution in people with mild to moderate hypertension, cardiac disease, hyperthyroidism, hyperglycemia, benign prostatic hyperplasia, diabetes mellitus, kidney problems, seizure disorder, and glaucoma.

• The recommended dose is 60 mg every 4 to 6 hours when using immediate release tablets. When using extended release tablets the recommended dose is 120 mg every 12 hours or 240 mg every 24 hours.

• Pseudoephedrine should not be combined with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) because such combinations may cause an acute hypertensive episode. Examples of MAOIs include rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Zelapar), isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), and tranylcypromine (Parnate).

• Use of pseudoephedrine by pregnant women has not been adequately evaluated.
• Pseudoephedrine is secreted in breast milk. However, it is considered safe to use while nursing.

What preparations of pseudoephedrine are available?

• Tablet (immediate-release): 30, 60 mg; Tablet (extended-release): 120, 240 mg