Phenylephrine belongs to a group of medicines called decongestant. It is used alone or in combination with other medicines to help relieve symptoms of cold such as blocked or runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing.
Take Phenylephrine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is available as tablet or as a capsule. Swallow it whole. Try to take it at the same time each day.
You may stop taking Phenylephrine if you have no more congested nose.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
Do not take Phenylephrine if you are currently taking or have taken a medicine to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) in the last 14 days.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart disease
- high blood pressure
- thyroid disease
- diabetes
- enlarged prostate
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child or to an elderly.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Consult your doctor if symptoms do not improve within 7 days or if your symptoms are accompanied by fever.
Phenylephrine may cause dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects may include any of the following: headache, anxiety, excitability, restlessness, nervousness, difficulty sleeping, nausea and vomiting.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not take Phenylephrine if you are currently taking or have taken a medicine to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxacid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine in the last 14 days.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- other decongestants e.g. naphazoline, oxymetazoline, xylometazoline
- medicines for high blood pressure or heart disease e.g. digoxin, prazosin
- medicines for depression e.g. amitriptyline, nortriptyline
- medicines for asthma e.g. bambuterol, salmeterol, terbutaline
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Phenylephrine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol, bitter orange and caffeine.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.