Pseudoephedrine-A non-drowsy decongestant

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Pseudoephedrine: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Pseudoephedrine?

Pseudoephedrine is a sympathomimetic drug belonging to chemical classes of phenethylamine and amphetamine. It is a stimulant used for reducing nasal mucous membrane swelling due to cold and used as a decongestant. It also increases the drainage of sinus secretions. It can be used both as oral or in a topical form. But oral medications may have side effects such as urine retentions. It also helps in suppressing cough.

What are the uses of Pseudoephedrine?

Some uses and benefits are:

Relieving hay fever and upper respiratory allergies,
Use as stimulants,
Sinusitis and nasal congestion.

What are the side effects of Pseudoephedrine?

Some of the common side effects of Pseudoephedrine include:

Uneven heartbeat or fast pounding heart

Dry mouth

Flue like symptoms -fever, chills, body ache

Bruises or bleeding

Severe dizziness

Anxiety

High blood pressure

Less serious Pseudoephedrine side effects include:

Skin rash with itching

Sleep problems

Warm tingling and reddening of the skin

Restless feeling or excitation(mainly in children).

Frequently Asked Questions about Pseudoephedrine

A small amount of ephedrine is metabolised in the gastrointestinal tract, and most of it is excreted, unaltered through the kidneys. It takes a day for this drug to be fully metabolised.

Pseudoephedrine and cetirizine are not recommended to be consumed together. But in some unavoidable cases, if it has to be taken together, consult your doctor regarding the dosage, frequency of intake, whether to consume alcohol, tobacco, and food.

Pseudoephedrine does not make you tired.

Pseudoephedrine dosage depends on the patient's condition, the strength of medicine, and the severity of the condition form For adults and children above 12 years of age above is 60 mg every four to six hours. You must not exceed 240 mg in a day.

No, Pseudoephedrine is not an antihistamine. It belongs to a class of drugs known as decongestants. Though Benedryl, an antihistamine drug prescribed for cold, decongestant, like Pseudoephedrine, works best to relieve cold.

No, Pseudoephedrine does not make you drowsy. It is a non-drowsy decongestant available over the counter. It temporarily relieves nasal congestion and sinus problems.

Yes, decongestants like Pseudoephedrine increase blood sugar levels. They prevent insulin secretion, glucose uptake is reduced from blood, and the body's reserve store of glycogen is broken down and used. So it is not the preferred medicine for diabetics.

Pseudoephedrine acts by constricting blood vessels in the nose and sinuses. It drains fluids and shrinks swelling, allowing you to breathe easily. But this drug constricts blood vessels throughout the body. Hence, it increases blood pressure.

Yes, Pseudoephedrine is safe to take, and the FDA has approved it too. It is used universally as congestant. But this medication should not be taken for more than ten days as it may show side effects after prolonged use.

Sudafed contains Pseudoephedrine. Each tablet has 30 mg of nasal decongestant Pseudoephedrine. Children 12 years and adults can take two tablets every 4 to 6 hours. In 24hrs more than six tablets should not be accepted.

Nyquil contains acetaminophen (a pain reliever/fever reducer), doxylamine succinate (an antihistamine), and dextromethorphan HBR. It does not contain Pseudoephedrine.