Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant found in many different medications. It comes most commonly as either
pseudoephedrine sulfate or
pseudoephedrine hydrochloride (there are no important differences between the two). Pseudoephedrine is especially useful for the following uses:
It should be noted that many pseudoephedrine products also contain other active ingredients. This article focuses primarily on pseudoephedrine, not the other active ingredients in such products.
As with any medicine, pseudoephedrine can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience bothersome side effects. Some people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Possible side effects of pseudoephedrine include, but are not limited to:
- Insomnia
- Nervousness
- A rapid heart rate
- Heart palpitations.
(Click Pseudoephedrine Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Pseudoephedrine?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Do I Need a Prescription for Pseudoephedrine?
You do not need a prescription to buy pseudoephedrine in most states. However, any medication containing pseudoephedrine is required to be kept behind the pharmacy counter. You will need to show identification to buy pseudoephedrine, and you will be limited to a certain amount of the medication per month. These measures were put in place to decrease the use of pseudoephedrine to make
methamphetamine (see Abuse of Pseudoephedrine for more information).
Some products contain pseudoephedrine in combination with a prescription medication (some examples include
Allegra-D® or
Clarinex-D®). Of course, a prescription is required for these medications.
Pseudoephedrine is part of a class of drugs called decongestants. Specifically, it works by stimulating certain receptors known as alpha-adrenergic receptors. In the lining of the nose and sinuses, this action causes the blood vessels to constrict, allowing less fluid to leave the blood vessels and decreasing inflammation. This helps to relieve nasal and sinus congestion.
When and How to Take Pseudoephedrine
General considerations include the following:
- This medication comes in several different forms, such as immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets, or a liquid. The instructions for use vary with each different product.
- Do not break, chew, cut, or crush extended-release tablets, as this will cause the medication to be released too quickly.
- You can take pseudoephedrine with food or on an empty stomach. If the medication seems to bother your stomach, try taking it with a little food.
- Because there are so many different pseudoephedrine products available, be sure to follow the instructions for your particular product.
- Some people find that pseudoephedrine interferes with their ability to fall asleep. If you experience this problem, try taking your last dose earlier in the day.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as directed.
The recommended dose of pseudoephedrine will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The particular product
- Your age
- Other medications you are taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Pseudoephedrine Drug Interactions
What If I Take an Overdose?
An overdose with pseudoephedrine can cause serious problems. If you happen to overdose on this medication, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Pseudoephedrine Be Stored?
Pseudoephedrine should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Pseudoephedrine?
For people who take this medication on a regular schedule, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose of pseudoephedrine.
