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PHENYLEPHRINE (fen il EF rin) is a decongestant. It is used to relieve a stuffy nose from allergies, colds, or sinus problems.
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Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Nasop
They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:
•diabetes
•heart disease
•high blood pressure
•phenylketonuria
•prostate problems
•taken an MAOI like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate in last 14 days
•thyroid disease
•trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine
•an unusual or allergic reaction to phenylephrine, other decongestants, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding
Take this medicine by mouth. Dissolve tablet on the tongue. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take this medicine with or without water. Take this medicine with food, water, or milk to prevent stomach upset. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Patients over 60 years old may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
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NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
•bromocriptine
•cocaine
•dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, ergoloid mesylates, methysergide, or ergot-type medication
•MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
•other stimulant medicines
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
•anesthesia
•medicines for blood pressure
•medicines for mental depression
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
Visit your doctor for follow ups as directed. Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
•breathing problems
•chest pain
•fast, irregular heartbeat
•feeling faint or lightheaded, falls
•pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet
•unusually weak or tired
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•difficulty sleeping
•headache
•loss of appetite
•nervousness
•stomach upset, nausea
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.