Written by Medicover Team and Medically
Reviewed by
Dr Neha B L, ENT
Pseudoephedrine is a common decongestant used to relieve nasal or sinus congestion caused by colds, allergies, or hay fever. It works by shrinking the blood vessels in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe. Often available in tablet form, it is used for short-term relief and should be taken as directed by a doctor.
What Is Pseudoephedrine?
Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that reduces swelling in the noses blood vessels, helping to clear nasal and sinus congestion. It also helps unblock the tubes that drain fluid from the inner ears.
Pseudoephedrine Tablet Uses
Pseudoephedrine is a common decongestant used to relieve nasal or sinus congestion caused by colds, allergies, or fever.
Conditions Pseudoephedrine Tablet Treats
Nasal congestion due to the common cold
Indications for use of Clodafed Plus
Sinus congestion and pressure
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
Upper respiratory tract congestion
Secondary Uses of Pseudoephedrine
Relief from ear congestion caused by air travel
Adjunct therapy for sinus infections (as advised by the doctor)
How Does Pseudoephedrine Work?
Pseudoephedrine works by stimulating alpha-adrenergic receptors in the blood vessels of the nasal passages. This causes the blood vessels to constrict (narrow), which helps reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal tissues, making it easier to breathe.
It does not directly affect hormones, but it acts on the sympathetic nervous system, producing effects similar to adrenaline. This is why some people may experience side effects like increased heart rate, restlessness, or nervousness when taking pseudoephedrine.
Pseudoephedrine Dosage and Guidelines
The usual adult dose for nasal congestion is 60 mg every 4 to 6 hours. Do not exceed 240 mg per day. Dosage may vary based on age, health condition, and specific product formulation. Always follow your doctor advice or the product label.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double the dose to catch up.
What Happens If an Overdose Occurs?
Overdosing on pseudoephedrine can cause symptoms like high blood pressure, fast heartbeat, anxiety, dizziness, and seizures. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect an overdose.
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Prozac is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression, OCD, and other mental health conditions. Like all medications, it can cause side effects, which vary from person to person
Allergies: Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to pseudoephedrine or have any other allergies.
Medical Conditions: Consult your doctor if you have diabetes, glaucoma, heart problems, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, kidney disease, overactive thyroid, or trouble urinating.
Sugar, Alcohol, or Aspartame: Liquid products may contain these. Use caution if you have conditions like diabetes or PKU.
Older Adults: May experience rapid heartbeat, dizziness, urination issues, or confusion.
Children may be more sensitive, especially to restlessness.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your doctor.
Drug Interactions and Storage Guidelines
Possible Interactions with Other Medications
Pseudoephedrine may interact with certain medications, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, and stimulants. These interactions can lead to increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, or nervousness.
Impact When Combined with Supplements or Herbal Products
Combining pseudoephedrine with herbal products like ephedra or supplements containing caffeine may increase the risk of side effects such as restlessness, rapid heartbeat, or high blood pressure. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements with pseudoephedrine.
How Should Pseudoephedrine Be Stored?
Store pseudoephedrine tablets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Recommended Storage Temperature for Pseudoephedrine
The ideal storage temperature is between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Avoid extreme temperatures and keep the medication in its original container.
What Happens If Pseudoephedrine Is Not Stored Properly?
Improper storage can reduce the medicine effectiveness. Exposure to heat, light, or moisture may degrade the active ingredients, making the medication less effective or potentially unsafe to use.
Common side effects include feeling sick, headaches, dry mouth, rapid or erratic heartbeat, or elevated blood pressure. It could make you feel restless, nervous, or shaky as well. The Sudafed or Galpseud Linctus brand names are sometimes called pseudoephedrine.
If you have high blood pressure, heart issues, glaucoma, or are on MAO inhibitors, it's best to steer clear of pseudoephedrine.
There may be drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth/nose/throat, headache, sore stomach, constipation, or sleep issues. Tell your physician or pharmacist immediately if any of these symptoms persist or worsen.
In several cough and cold goods, oral decongestants including pseudoephedrine (SUDAFED) or phenylephrine are found. Blood pressure can be raised by oral decongestants and force the heart and kidneys to work too hard. Multi-ingredient items typically contain an oral decongestant, check the label.
We conclude that more low-dose weight loss PPA trials suggest that pseudoephedrine is not successful for weight loss and that adding phenylpropanolamine to benzocaine improves adverse effects without raising weight loss.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.
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