What is Pseudoephedrine?
Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that reduces swelling in the nose’s blood vessels, helping to clear nasal and sinus congestion. It also helps unblock the tubes that drain fluid from the inner ears.
Pseudoephedrine Usage
Purpose: Relieves nasal and sinus congestion from infections, common colds, flu, and allergies.
Action: Narrows blood vessels to reduce swelling and congestion.
Instructions:
- Follow package instructions carefully.
- Consult your doctor if you have questions.
Children:
- This medication is not recommended for children under 12 unless advised by a doctor.
How to Take Pseudoephedrine:
Read Instructions: Follow the instructions on the packaging or as prescribed by your doctor.
Dosage: Usually taken every 12 or 24 hours. Do not exceed 240 milligrams per day.
How to Take:
- With/Without Food: This can be taken with or without food.
- Liquid Form: Shake well before each dose. Use a medication-measuring device for accuracy.
- Capsules/Tablets: Swallow whole with water. Do not crush or chew.
Caffeine: Avoid large amounts of caffeine as it may increase side effects.
When to Seek Help: Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days, worsen, or if you develop a fever, rash, or persistent headache.
Pseudoephedrine Side effects
- Fast or uneven heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Anxiety
- Easy bruising
- Bleeding
- Unusual weakness
- Fever
- Nausea
- Chills
- Body aches
- Flu symptoms
- High blood pressure
- Severe headache
- Blurred vision
- Ringing in your ears anxiety
- Confusion
- Chest pain
- Trouble breathing
- Uneven heart rate
- Seizure
- Loss of appetite
- Warmth or tingling
- Redness under your skin
- Feeling restless
- Sleep problems (insomnia)
- Skin rash
- Itching
- Mental or mood changes
- Difficulty urinating
- Restlessness
- Abdominal pain
Precautions When Taking Pseudoephedrine
- 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.
Dosage Information for Pseudoephedrine
Adult Dosage:
- Immediate Release: 30 to 60 mg orally every 4 to 6 hours as needed
- Sustained Release: 120 mg orally every 12 hours as needed
- Sustained-Release Suspension: 45 to 100 mg orally every 12 hours as needed
- Maximum Dose: 240 mg per day
Pediatric Dosage:
For ages 2 to 5 years:
- Immediate Release: 15 mg every 6 hours
- Sustained-Release Suspension: 12.5 to 25 mg orally every 12 hours as needed
- Maximum Dose: 60 mg per day
- Alternative Dose: 1 mg/kg/dose every 6 hours; maximum daily dose: 15 mg
For ages 6 to 12 years:
- Immediate Release: 30 mg every 6 hours
- Sustained-Release Suspension: 25 to 50 mg orally every 12 hours as needed
- Maximum Dose: 120 mg per day
For ages 12 years and over:
- Immediate Release: 30 to 60 mg orally every 4 to 6 hours as needed
- Sustained Release: 120 mg orally every 12 hours as needed
- Sustained-Release Suspension: 50 to 100 mg orally every 12 hours as needed
Maximum Dose: 240 mg per day
Pseudoephedrine Vs Phentermine
| Pseudoephedrine | Phentermine |
|---|---|
| Brand names are Sudafed Congestion, Sudafed 12-Hour, SudoGest | Brand name Ionamin |
| Formula: C10H15NO | Formula: C10H15N |
| It is used as a nasal and sinus decongestant, as a stimulant | a medication used together with diet and exercise to treat obesity. |
| Pseudoephedrine works by reducing the swelling of blood vessels in your nose. | vessels in your nose. It triggers the release of chemicals in the brain that manipulate your mind to minimize your appetite so that you feel full and eat less. |
