What is pseudoephedrine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
- 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
What are the uses for pseudoephedrine?
- Pseudoephedrine is used for treating nasal and sinus congestion caused by the
common cold or allergies.
What are the side effects of pseudoephedrine?
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.
QUESTION
Which illness is known as a viral upper respiratory tract infection?
See Answer
What is the dosage for pseudoephedrine?
- 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.
Which drugs or supplements interact with pseudoephedrine?
- 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).
Is pseudoephedrine safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
- 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 else should I know about pseudoephedrine?
What preparations of pseudoephedrine are available?
- Tablet (immediate-release): 30, 60 mg; Tablet (extended-release): 120, 240 mg