What is Phenylephrine?
Phenylephrine can be described as a decongestant, which is used to treat stuffy nose and sinus congestion that is caused by commonly occurring colds or allergies like hay fever or other allergies. Phenylephrine can also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.
Side effects of Phenylephrine
Contact a medical professional immediately in the event that you exhibit symptoms or warning signs of an allergic reaction, such as asthma, hives, or swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.
Phenylephrine can cause serious adverse side effects. Stop taking phenylephrine immediately, and contact your doctor immediately in case you suffer from:
- Rapid pounding, as well as an irregular beat;
- Severe dizziness or nervousness;
- Sleep problems (insomnia); or
- Elevated blood pressure, severe headache, blurred vision, and a pounding sensation in your neck or ear.
Common adverse effects of phenylephrine could include:
- Flushing (warmth, redness, or a tingly feeling);
- Lack of appetite or
- Experiencing a sense of anxiety or excitement (especially for children).
This is not a comprehensive list of possible side effects, and other side effects could occur. Contact your physician to seek medical advice on the effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
Diltiazem, amiodarone, dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, bisoprolol, and midodrine
Warnings
Do not take phenylephrine if you've used an MAO inhibitor within the last 14 days, including linezolid, isocarboxazid, methylene blue injection, or phenelzine rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine.
Prior to use this drug
Don't use phenylephrine in the event that you've taken an MAO inhibitor within the past 14 days. A potentially dangerous interaction with a drug could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid linezolid, methylene blue injection rasagiline, and phenelzine, as well as tranylcypromine and others.
It is not recommended to use phenylephrine when you are allergic to it.
Consult a pharmacist or doctor to determine if this medication is suitable for use if you are:
- Heart disease, high blood pressure;
- Diabetes;
- An thyroid disorder;
- Increased prostate and urinary problems;
- Any allergies to drugs.
Talk to your doctor prior to taking this medication if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.
The liquid version of this medication may include the chemical phenylalanine. Make sure to read the label on the medicine to determine if you suffer from the condition known as phenylketonuria (PKU).
How to take Phenylephrine?
Follow the directions on the label or as recommended by your physician. Cold medication is meant for use at short-term intervals until symptoms improve. Always follow the instructions on the label of the medicine about administering cold medicine to children. It is important to chew the tablet before you take it in.
Make sure to measure the liquid medicine with care. Use the dosing needle provided or a dosage-measuring device (not the kitchen spoon). Take the tablet that dissolves orally from the container only when you are ready to consume the medication. Put the tablet in your mouth and let it dissolve without chewing. Take a few breaths as the tablet disintegrates.
Contact your physician if your symptoms don't improve within 7 days or if you experience a high fever, itchy rash, or headaches. If you require surgery, inform your surgeon whether you're currently taking phenylephrine. Keep it at room temperature, free of heat and moisture. Don't freeze.
Details on dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Hypotension:
Dosing during surgery (patients who are undergoing surgery using general or neuraxial anesthesia):
Initial dose: 50–250 mg by intravenous Bolus (most usual doses: 50–100 mg)
Maintaining a dose of 0.5 or 1.4 mcg/kg/min via continuous intravenous infusion (titrate according to blood pressure target)
Septic or Other Vasodilatory Shock:
0.5 to 6 mcg/kg/min through the continuous intravenous infusion (titrate according to the blood pressure target).
There is no bolus.
Doses of more than 6 mg/kg/min do not cause a significant blood pressure increase.
Usual Adult Dose for Shock:
Dosing during surgery (patients who are undergoing surgery using general or neuraxial anesthesia):
Initial dose: 50–250 mg via intravenous Bolus (most usual doses: 50–100 mg)
Dose for maintenance: 0.5 or 1.4 mcg/kg/min via continuous intravenous infusion (titrate according to blood pressure goal).
Septic or Other Vasodilatory Shock:
0.5 to 6 mcg/kg/min through the continuous intravenous infusion (titrate according to the blood pressure target).
No Bolus
Doses of more than 6 mg/kg/min do not cause significant blood pressure rises.
Usual Adult Dose for Nasal Congestion:
10 mg oral every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 60 mg per 24 hours.
Usual Pediatric Dose for Nasal Congestion:
12 years old and over 10 mg daily orally for 4 hours
Maximum dose: 60 mg per 24 hours.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Because cold medicine is only taken when it is required, you might not be on a regular dosing schedule. Don't miss a dose when it's time to take the next dose. Do not take two doses at once.
What happens if I overdose?
For medical emergencies, seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Help Line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Consult a physician or pharmacist before taking any other cold or cold medications that contain similar components.
Interaction with other drugs
Certain drugs can cause phenylephrine to be affected. Some medicines should not be used in combination. Discuss with your doctor all the medications you are currently taking and any medication you begin or stop taking. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbs. Not all interactions are included in this list.
