Phenylephrine (By mouth)

Introduction:

Phenylephrine (fen-il-EF-rin)

Treats stuffy nose.

Brand Name(s):

Nasop, Despec-SF, PediaCare Decongestant Drops, Toddler's Dimetapp Decongestant, Pediacare Infant Dropper Decongestant, Children's Sudafed PE Nasal Decongestant, Pediacare Children's Decongestant, Lusonal, Ah-Chew D, Medi-Phenyl, Sudo-Tab PE, Sudafed PE, Contac D Cold, The Medicine Shoppe Nasal Decongestant, Medi-First Non-Pseudo Sinus Decongestant

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have an allergic reaction to phenylephrine or other nasal decongestants. Do no use this medicine if you are breastfeeding or if you are also using an MAO inhibitor such as Eldepryl®, Marplan®, Nardil®, or Parnate®. Do not give any over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicine to a baby or child under 4 years old. Using these medicines in very young children might cause serious or possibly life-threatening side effects.

How to Use This Medicine:

Chewable Tablet, Thin Sheet, Tablet, Dissolving Tablet, Liquid

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have asthma, certain digestive problems, an enlarged prostate gland, glaucoma, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, or an overactive thyroid.
  • Do not give this medicine to a child under 6 years of age unless your doctor tells you it is okay.
  • This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Trouble urinating, or a decrease in how much or how often you urinate.
  • Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, or body aches.
  • Fainting.
  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Headache.
  • Mild skin rash or itching.
  • Nausea, vomiting, or mild stomach pain.
  • Nervousness, restlessness, or trouble sleeping.
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