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RESPIRATORY SYSTEM › NASAL PREPARATIONS › NASAL DECONGESTANTS FOR SYSTEMIC USE › Sympathomimetics
phenylpropanolamine
R01BA01
Forms & Strengths
- Oral Capsule, Extended Release: 75 mg
- Oral Tablet: 25 mg, 50 mg
- Oral Syrup: 20 mg/5 mL
- Nasal Solution: 0.5%, 1.5%
Adult Dosing
- Nasal decongestant (Oral): 25 mg every 4 hours or 50 mg every 8 hours; maximum 150 mg/day
- Extended release: 75 mg once daily
Pediatric Dosing
- Children 6 to 12 years: 12.5 mg every 4 hours; maximum 75 mg/day
- Children over 12 years: Same as adult dosing
Indications
- Nasal congestion associated with sinusitis, common cold, allergies
- Previously used as an anorexiant for weight loss (withdrawn in many markets due to hemorrhagic stroke risk)
Mechanism of Action
- Indirect-acting sympathomimetic amine
- Stimulates alpha-adrenergic receptors in the mucosa of the respiratory tract, producing vasoconstriction
- Causes release of norepinephrine from storage sites, reducing tissue edema and nasal congestion
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to phenylpropanolamine or sympathomimetics
- Severe hypertension or coronary artery disease
- Concomitant use with or within 14 days of MAO inhibitors
- Nursing mothers
Adverse Reactions
- Cardiovascular: Hypertension, tachycardia, palpitation, hemorrhagic stroke
- Central Nervous System: Anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, dizziness, headache
- Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, dry mouth
- Genitourinary: Urinary retention
Drug Interactions
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): Risk of severe hypertensive crisis
- Sympathomimetics: Additive cardiovascular toxicity and CNS stimulation
- Beta-blockers: Potential for paradoxical hypertension and excessive vasoconstriction
- Tricyclic Antidepressants: Potentiation of pressor response
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use