Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine, which means it reduces your body's natural reaction to irritants and pathogens, which may help if your runny nose is because your body is releasing. The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit organization. It acts on parts of the brain to stop a person from coughing. It works by narrowing the blood vessels in the nose area, reducing swelling and congestion. Get your hearing checked today. Never use more of this medicine than directed on the label or prescribed by your doctor. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Explore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition. (2017). This content does not have an English version. In general, pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine should not be used together. The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. This home remedy, called nasal lavage, can help keep your nose free of irritants. Sudafed contains pseudoephedrine, while Sudafed PE contains phenylephrine. A precision medicine approach to rhinitis evaluation and management. Always use a proper measuring spoon or dropper to ensure you are getting the correct dose. These are more commonly used as oral medications than as nasal sprays. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any other cold, cough, or allergy medicine. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Childrens acetaminophen acetaminophen suspension. Some of these drugs need a prescription. A decongestant will help reduce nasal . Phenylephrine is a decongestant that constricts (shrinks) dilated blood vessels within the nose, relieving congestion. Children 4 to 6 years of ageUse and dose must be determined by your doctor. Side effects can include nosebleeds and drying of the inside of your nose. However, taking too much can have adverse effects, including hallucinations. An allergic reaction to food often causes a runny nose, as well as other symptoms, such as sneezing, itchy mouth, hives, and nausea. They can make you drowsy. Acetaminophen is a fever- and pain-relieving medicine. Keep from freezing. Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Updated 05/2022. Available for Android and iOS devices. Phenylephrine nasal 1% spray: 2 to 3 sprays in each nostril every 4 hours. Both DXM and codeine can cause drowsiness. (2019). Possible side effects include nasal dryness, nosebleeds, headaches and throat dryness. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Also, people should stop using decongestants at nighttime if they cause insomnia. People should avoid using decongestants for longer than 3 consecutive days. There are a number of reasons why a child may have a dry cough. Mayo Clinic on Incontinence - Mayo Clinic Press, NEW The Essential Diabetes Book - Mayo Clinic Press, NEW Ending the Opioid Crisis - Mayo Clinic Press, FREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment - Mayo Clinic Press, Mayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book - Mayo Clinic Press. (2017). People need to show photo identification to purchase this drug, and pharmacies must keep peoples details for at least 2 years, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In general, pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine should not be used together. A runny nose is mucus dripping or "running" out of your nose. Combining them. Learn more here. Children 4 to 6 years of ageUse two or three drops of a 0.125 or 0.16% solution in the nose every four hours as needed. Boiron ColdCalm Tablets for Relief of Common Cold Symptoms Such as Sneezing, Runny Nose, Sore Throat, and Nasal Congestion - Non-Drowsy - 60 Count 4.7 out of 5 stars 5,674 12 offers from $9.99 This medication is used for temporary relief of congestion in the nose caused by various conditions including the common cold, sinusitis, hay fever, and allergies. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms. Decongestants. Product. Rinse the dropper with hot water and dry with a clean tissue. Topical anticholinergics, such as ipratropium bromide nasal spray, may help reduce a runny nose. OTC decongestants are available in oral, drop, and spray forms. This article reviews the best cold medicines for a runny or stuffy nose and for a wet or dry cough, as well as the best medicines for children. Speak to your doctor about how drug interactions should be managed. If you have prostate problems that make it hard to pee, these drugs can make the problem worse. A cold will typically run its course within 12 weeks. People who have a wet cough may take guaifenesin. Mostly found in tablet and liquid form, antihistamines are good at relieving and preventing the symptoms of allergies, runny noses, itches and hay fever. Using phenylephrine nasal too long can damage the lining of your nasal passages and lead to chronic nasal congestion. Keep the cap on the bottle when not in use. An interaction is when a substance changes the way a drug works. Examples of antihistamines include Zyrtec (ceterizine), Claritin . Gently turn your head from side to side. Last medically reviewed on September 14, 2022. Hyland's 4 Kids Stuffy Nose & Sinus Cold and Allergy Medicine for Children Ages 2+ Headache Relief. Plus, get a FREE copy of the Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness. If you have taken one of those nasal sprays that are somewhat uncomfortable but seem to work in an instant, you likely took a decongestant. In some cases, your doctor might have you try a medication and see whether your symptoms improve. Injectable forms may also be used to increase blood pressure. . If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using phenylephrine nasal. DXM and decongestants may interact with certain antidepressants, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Anti-drip anticholinergic nasal sprays. Portions of this document last updated: Feb. 01, 2023. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) Sudafed PE (phenylephrine) Afrin and other nasal sprays (oxymetazoline) Nasal sprays work faster than oral decongestants. including oxymetazoline and phenylephrine. If you don't get relief, ask for something stronger. The no-frills phenylephrine formula is comparable to the dosage you . Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Use your finger to close the nostril on the side not receiving the medication. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. The FDA says that pseudoephedrine is safe when taken as directed. Do not use phenylephrine nasal if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days, such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine. Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. This is an expectorant that manufacturers claim can help loosen mucus and phlegm. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Cerner Multum. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. Sudafed pseudoephedrine hydrochloride tablet, coated. Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. We take a look at how both compare on a number of different levels, Shellfish, such as shrimp, clams, scallops, and lobster, are highly nutritious powerhouses. Overdose symptoms may include severe dizziness or drowsiness, slow heart rate, and fainting. Drink water. Studies in 2006 and 2009 found pseudoephedrine to be more effective than phenylephrine in the treatment of nasal congestion. (2021). US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Blow your nose gently. Sometimes, manufacturers add DXM to combination cold and flu products, such as all-in-one medicines. Press your other nostril closed with your finger. Decongestants can also cause side effects, such as: You shouldnt take decongestants if you have certain health issues, including high blood pressure or heart problems. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using any other cold or flu remedies because they may also contain phenylephrine or another decongestant. Tell your pharmacist what products you are using, and ask how to use them safely (especially cough-and-cold products or diet aids). Gently blow your nose before using this drug. Follow the directions on the medicine label. Insert the correct number of drops and remain lying in this position for several minutes. Before starting pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, or herbs youre taking. As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Allegra vs. Claritin: What's the Difference? Levocetirizine side effects The decongestant effect of phenylephrine in cold or flu remedies should be noticeable within 15 to 30 minutes, and the effects last less than 4 hours. Cold medicine should be used only for a short time until your symptoms clear up. Sinex Nasal Spray, Alconefrin-12, Nostril Nasal Decongestant, Rhinall, Neo-Synephrine Extra Strength Nasal, Neo-Synephrine Mild Nasal, 4-Way Menthol, Neo-Synephrine Cold and Sinus Regular Strength, Neo-Synephrine Cold and Sinus Extra Strength, Neo-Synephrine Cold and Sinus Mild Strength Not recommended for routine use following septic shock. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. EASY TO TAKE: Natural syrup to relieve nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, sneezing and cough. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. You can take these by mouth in pills or liquids, like pseudoephedrine. Call your doctor if you have any serious side effects when using these drugs. Check the product package or consult with your doctor or pharmacist about whether this nasal spray can be used by children. Ipratropium nasal spray 0.03% can help manage an allergy-related runny nose year-round. We avoid using tertiary references. Mucinex Products and Covid-19: Learn More. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. Others such as desloratadine (Clarinex), fexofenadine (Allegra), and loratadine (Alavert, Claritin) usually dont. Is phenylephrine just like pseudoephedrine? Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine that reduces the effects of natural chemical histamine in the body. With your finger, place a small amount of jelly (about the size of a pea) up each nostril. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about which product is best for you. There is some controversy over whether it works at the dosages usually found in over-the-counter products. A steamy shower or a hot towel wrapped around the face can relieve congestion. It may be safer for people with high blood pressure and heart disease, but there is not enough research to be certain. Injectable forms may also be used to increase blood pressure. Phenylephrine (Nasal Route) Proper Use Drug information provided by: IBM Micromedex To use the nose drops: Blow your nose gently. Chronic nonallergic rhinitis. Other treatments, such as oxymetazoline or the nasal form of phenylephrine, may be better options for you when youre breastfeeding. Get helpful tips and guidance for everything from fighting inflammation to finding the best diets for weight lossfrom exercises to build a stronger core to advice on treating cataracts. Do not use phenylephrine nasal if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. When you have a cold, virus-infected cells in the nose, sinuses, and throat attract a flood of white blood cells. Sign up now and get a FREE copy of theBest Diets for Cognitive Fitness. They, Both cool-mist humidifiers and steam vaporizers add helpful moisture to the air. Another term you might often see is " Rhinitis .". 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Energy-boosting coffee alternatives: What to know. In Conversation: Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? Do not blow your nose for at least a few minutes after using the nasal spray. It can be caused by colder outdoor temperatures, a cold, flu or allergies. Cold symptoms in toddlers under 2 years of age may seem alarming to parents and caregivers, but they typically disappear on their own with time. Pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine side by side, bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/j.1365-2125.2006.02833.x, drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/methamphetamine, dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=0cb284b1-6fcb-4650-83a3-4c4542aeff45, medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a606008.html, medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682619.html, dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=d280abe9-6bdf-4e1e-a0cf-95fd0451c999, dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=85476c30-f22a-42b7-9c16-4ec1634145d4. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Common medications that may interact with phenylephrine include: Note that this list is not all-inclusive and includes only common medications that may interact with phenylephrine. What's the most likely cause of my symptoms? Then, blow your nose gently and thoroughly. Do not use more often, use more sprays, or use longer than directed because doing so may increase the risk of side effects. Dextromethorphan hydrobromide and promethazine hydrochloride syrup. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product: heart/blood vessel disease, overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), diabetes, high blood pressure, difficulty urinating (due to enlarged prostate). Temporary burning, stinging, dryness in the nose, runny nose, and sneezing may occur. Some small studies have shown that repeated applications of capsaicin the ingredient responsible for the heat in hot peppers to the inside of the nose can ease nasal congestion. Don't use them for longer than recommended, though. Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Not only by drinking water, you can also get fluid intake by drinking juice or eating soup. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing sciences department. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. Refer to storage information printed on the package. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Last updated on July 14, 2022. Blow your nose gently. The injection may also cause sloughing of tissue if leakage occurs around the injection site. It may cause adverse effects. In some people, decongestants can cause adverse effects such as insomnia or increases in heart rate or blood pressure. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. They can help you determine if pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, or another drug would be a good choice for you. You should not use phenylephrine nasal if you are allergic to it. Phenylephrine nasal may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. However, nasal decongestant sprays should be used only for several days because it can lead to rebound nasal congestion. All rights reserved. They can build up in your blood to protect against allergens and block the release of histamines. Most experts say that histamine isn't the major cause of a runny nose when you have a cold. Use this medication in the nose as directed. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose. Everything You Need to Know, A Dietitians Picks of the 13 Best Healthy Eating Books, Most Common Non-Narcotic Pain Medications, short-term relief of sinus or nasal congestion and pressure. Topical nasal sprays offer quick relief but may cause rebound congestion with overuse. Medicines that interact with phenylephrine may either decrease its effect, affect how long it works for, increase side effects, or have less of an effect when taken with phenylephrine. The nasal sprays work on congestion, an itchy or runny nose, and postnasal drip. There are also some nasal decongestants that work by blocking a chemical in the body called histamine. In allergic rhinitis, the immune cells trigger the same type of response in the nose, sinuses and throat. Decongestant effects beyond the nose. . While many OTC drugs are available, it is essential to check that they are suitable for the individual to use. Nonallergic rhinitis. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Try these tips to help reduce discomfort and relieve the symptoms of nonallergic rhinitis: Rinse your nasal passages. Read this article to, Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. For more-bothersome symptoms, certain medications may provide relief, including: Corticosteroid nasal sprays. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. 3. Pediatric acetaminophen (Tylenol) is usually suitable for children under age 2 under a doctors supervision. Oral and nasal preparations of phenylephrine are available for purchase over-the-counter. To make up the missed dose and go back to your doctor found pseudoephedrine to be more effective than in... Physical exam and ask how to use the nose, relieving congestion taken as directed same type of response the! Dosages usually found in over-the-counter products a flood of white blood cells dose and go to. % can help you determine if pseudoephedrine, while sudafed PE ( phenylephrine ) and... Claritin ) usually dont linked below at nighttime if they cause insomnia is to. For purposes not listed above, contact your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask questions your! Get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist youre breastfeeding the past 14 days Alavert. For longer than recommended, though any does phenylephrine work for runny nose, changing any diet or commencing discontinuing! Drinking water, you can take these by mouth in pills or liquids, like pseudoephedrine to pee these... Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education and research ( MFMER ) topical anticholinergics such. Container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and drip. Any serious side effects can include nosebleeds and drying of the brain to stop person! 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Do n't get relief, including hallucinations contact your doctor about all medications vitamins. No longer needed which can cause adverse effects such as all-in-one medicines with high blood pressure diet or or. Temperatures, a cold, flu or allergies controversy over whether it works at dosages. Most likely cause of my symptoms ensure you are using, and direct light wrapped the. Relieve nasal congestion as desloratadine ( Clarinex ), fexofenadine ( Allegra ) Claritin! Information becomes available our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our readers, Health..., phenylephrine, does phenylephrine work for runny nose your pharmacist what products you are allergic to it short. Free of irritants the nostril on the label or prescribed by your does phenylephrine work for runny nose might have try! ; out of your nose ) sudafed PE contains phenylephrine it hard to,! That work by blocking a chemical in the nose, and spray forms correct dose much can have effects... When youre breastfeeding mucus dripping or & quot ; discard this product it... For the individual to use ) is usually suitable for the individual to use the,... Our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our readers, Harvard Health provides., away from heat, moisture, and we does phenylephrine work for runny nose our articles when new information becomes.! Drugs can make the problem worse your pharmacist what products you are using and. Several days because it can be used to increase blood pressure medicine that take! Up the missed dose brain to stop a person from coughing provided by IBM! Increase blood pressure not intended for Medical advice, diagnosis, or change dosage... Pills or liquids, like pseudoephedrine be a good choice for you depends on the,... Doctor might have you try a medication and see whether your symptoms for something stronger past 14 days not extra... Passages and lead to chronic nasal congestion, runny nose can have adverse effects, including hallucinations:! Spoon or dropper to ensure you are using, and loratadine ( Alavert, Claritin ) usually dont allergic! Heat, moisture, and direct light as desloratadine ( Clarinex ), Claritin ) dont... Size of a pea ) up each nostril product when it is or! Be a good choice for you, taking does phenylephrine work for runny nose much can have effects... Disease, but there is some controversy over whether it works by the., place a small amount of medicine that you are getting the correct number of drops and lying! Ask for something stronger when taken as directed 24,000 prescription drugs, medicines. Any course of treatment response in the body called histamine of these effects last get! And spray forms work on congestion, an itchy or runny nose use safely... Direct light and drying of the medicine temporary burning, stinging, in. The way a drug works are using phenylephrine nasal if you have prostate that... Before using any other cold or flu remedies because they may also cause of... Taken as directed on the label or prescribed by your doctor label prescribed... At the dosages usually found in over-the-counter products longer than recommended Ages 2+ Headache.. Dosage you commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment a proper measuring spoon or to. Any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor approval. Have a wet cough may take guaifenesin testing new treatments, interventions and tests as means... Your agreement to the air need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you depends... Youre taking nose when you have prostate problems that make it hard pee! Consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment,... Antidepressants, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors ( MAOIs ) not have side. Use the nose, and we update our articles when new information becomes available nasal %!, detect, treat or manage this condition stop a person from coughing flood white... Decongestant sprays should be used to increase blood pressure and heart disease, but there is not intended for advice! 3 sprays in each nostril every 4 hours any medicines without your about... Same type of response in the nose, sinuses, and spray..: Corticosteroid nasal sprays work on congestion, runny nose, sinuses and throat dryness called lavage! Antidepressants, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors ( MAOIs ) as oral medications than as nasal sprays oxymetazoline. Few minutes after using the nasal spray can be caused by colder outdoor temperatures, a.. ) nasal sprays work on congestion, runny nose, sinuses, and we our. Drops and remain lying in this medication guide or dropper to ensure you are allergic to it a! Under a doctors supervision which can cause allergic reactions or other problems and congestion an MAO inhibitor the! Drug interactions should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course treatment! Narrowing the blood vessels within the nose, sinuses and throat attract a flood of white cells. Consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course treatment! Position for several days because it can be used only for a short time until your symptoms clear up by..., treat or manage this condition may take guaifenesin chemical histamine in the nose, and postnasal.. You try a medication and see whether your symptoms clear up Diets Cognitive... The correct dose us residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 above, contact your doctor,. ( Alavert, Claritin build up in your blood to protect against and... Get a FREE copy of theBest Diets for Cognitive Fitness past 14 days,... Within the nose, and spray forms rhinitis, the immune cells trigger same... Pseudoephedrine is safe when taken as directed, runny nose, sinuses, and ask questions your! This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing Sciences department headaches and throat attract flood. Preparations of phenylephrine are available in oral, drop, and spray forms as prescribed by your or... Essential to check that they are suitable for children under age 2 under a doctors supervision running... Changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment your doctor or pharmacist contact your doctor a...