phenylephrine (oral)

What is the most important information I should know about phenylephrine?

Do not use this medicine if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days, such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine.

What is phenylephrine?

Phenylephrine is a decongestant that is used to treat stuffy nose and sinus congestion caused by the common cold, hay fever, or other allergies.

Phenylephrine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking phenylephrine?

Do not use phenylephrine if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine, and others.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have:

• heart disease, high blood pressure;
• diabetes;
• a thyroid disorder;
• an enlarged prostate and urination problems; or
• any drug allergies.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

The liquid form of this medicine may contain phenylalanine. Check the medication label if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

How should I take phenylephrine?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Cold medicine is only for short-term use until your symptoms clear up.

You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.

Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Remove an orally disintegrating tablet from the package only when you are ready to take the medicine. Place the tablet in your mouth and allow it to dissolve, without chewing. Swallow several times as the tablet dissolves.

If you need surgery, tell your surgeon if you are currently using this medicine.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since cold medicine is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while taking phenylephrine?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using other cough or cold medicines that may contain similar ingredients.

What are the possible side effects of phenylephrine?

• fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat;
• severe dizziness or nervousness;
• sleep problems (insomnia); or
• increased blood pressure --severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears.

Common side effects may include:

• flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);
• loss of appetite; or
• feeling restless or excited (especially in children).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect phenylephrine?

Many drugs can affect phenylephrine, and some drugs should not be used at the same time. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed here.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about phenylephrine.