Generic
Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride
4 brands available in the market
At a glance
Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride is a decongestant used for temporary relief of nasal congestion. It is an alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptor agonist that causes vasoconstriction via direct stimulation of alpha-adrenergic receptors of the respiratory mucosa, reducing nasal mucosal swelling and congestion.
Description
Pseudoephedrine is an alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptor agonist. It causes vasoconstriction via direct stimulation of alpha-adrenergic receptors of the respiratory mucosa, reducing nasal mucosal swelling and congestion. It also directly stimulates beta-adrenergic receptors, causing bronchial relaxation, increased heart rate, and contractility.
Indications
- Nasal congestion (temporary relief)
Therapeutic class
Nasal decongestant
Pharmacological class
α- and β-Adrenergic Receptor Agonist
Pharmacology
Pseudoephedrine stimulates alpha-adrenergic receptors of the respiratory mucosa, causing vasoconstriction and reducing nasal mucosal swelling and congestion. It also stimulates beta-adrenergic receptors, causing bronchial relaxation and increased heart rate.
Mechanism of action
Relieves nasal congestion by constricting nasal blood vessels.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Nasal congestion: 1 tablet (60 mg) every 4-6 hours; max 4 tablets/24 hours
Pediatric Dose (Oral):
- 6-12 years: ½ tablet (30 mg) 3-4 times daily
- 2-5 years: ¼ tablet (15 mg) 3-4 times daily
Administration
- May be taken with or without food
- Follow the prescribed dose
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for next dose; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Side Effects:
- Anginal pain
- Rebound congestion and rhinorrhea
- Anxiety, restlessness, tremor, insomnia, confusion, irritability
- Reduced appetite, nausea, vomiting
- Reflex bradycardia, tachycardia, cardiac arrhythmias
- Hypotension, dizziness, fainting, flushing
Precautions & warnings
- Caution in hyperthyroidism, ischemic heart disease, arrhythmia, tachycardia, arteriosclerosis, hypertension, aneurysms, diabetes, closed-angle glaucoma, renal impairment, prostatic enlargement
- Caution in pregnancy and lactation
- Concentrated in breast milk
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Severe hypertension and coronary artery disease
- Concurrent use of MAOI drugs
Drug interactions
- Cardiac glycosides, quinidine, TCAs: Increased risk of hypertension and arrhythmias
- Ergot alkaloids, oxytocin: Increased risk of vasoconstrictor effects
- MAOIs: Hypertensive crisis
- Anesthetics (cyclopropane, halothane): Risk of arrhythmias
Food interactions
It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Information regarding use during pregnancy is not available; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Caution during breastfeeding; concentrated in breast milk; AAP Committee states compatible with nursing, but manufacturer contraindicates.
Pediatric use
Safety not established in children under 2 years.
Geriatric use
Caution required in elderly patients (potential underlying cardiovascular disease).
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution in kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution in liver disease; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose: Hypertension, arrhythmias, seizures, cerebral hemorrhage; treatment: supportive care, blood pressure control.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride