What Is Pseudoephedrine?

Many people want to know more about what pseudoephedrine is used for. Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant found in many different medications. The medication is especially useful for relieving nasal congestion due to allergies or the common cold and for treating sinus congestion and pressure. 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.

 

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. Although you do not need a prescription to buy pseudoephedrine in most states, 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.