Many people seek relief from seasonal colds and the flu by using over-the counter (OTC), or non-prescription, medications. pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that’s commonly used for nasal and sinus congestion. Cold and flu pills containing pseudoephedrine are widely used, providing significant relief from annoying symptoms. Due to its potency, it is important to understand what pseudoephedrine does, how it works and how to safely use it. This article gives a detailed look at cold and flu tablets that contain pseudoephedrine. It also discusses their risks and benefits.
What is Pseudoephedrine?
Pseudoephedrine mimics the action of the sympathetic nervous systems. It is the chemical cousin of Ephedrine, and it works by narrowing blood vessels in nasal passages. This vasoconstriction opens the airways and reduces swelling in the nasal tissues. Pseudoephedrine works best in treating congestion due to colds, flu, hay fever, or sinusitis.
Cold and flu tablets usually contain pseudoephedrine in combination with another active ingredient, such as
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Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) for pain and fever
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Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory pain reliever
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Diphenhydramine or chlorpheniramine- antihistamines that reduce sneezing, runny nose and sneezing
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Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant
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Guaifenesin is an expectorant that thins mucus
These combinations offer multi-symptom relief with a single dosage, making them popular among those who want to treat multiple cold and flu symptoms simultaneously.
How Pseudoephedrine Works
Pseudoephedrine targets the alphaadrenergic receptors located in the smooth muscle lining the blood vessel of the nasal passages. These receptors cause the blood vessels to constrict and reduce the amount of blood that flows into the nasal tissue. This reduces inflammation, fluid leakage, and congestion.
Pseudoephedrine, unlike nasal sprays, is taken orally. It works systemically and affects the whole body. This makes it an effective drug for sinus congestion, multiple symptoms and deeper sinus congestion. However, the drug may also affect other parts of the human body such as the heart or central nervous system.
Cold and Flu tablets with Pseudoephedrine: Benefits
Cold and flu tablets containing pseudoephedrine have several benefits, especially for those who suffer from multiple symptoms. These include:
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Effective Nasal Congestion: Pseudoephedrine, a reliable oral medication for sinus and nasal congestion, is a good alternative to ephedrine.
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Multi Symptom Relief: Many products combine pseudoephedrine, fever reducers and cough suppressants with pain relievers to provide a single-stop solution.
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Longer Lasting Action: Compared to nasal sprayed, oral pseudoephedrine offers longer relief. It can last up to six hours, depending on formulation.
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Nonsedating: Unlike the first generation of antihistamines that cause drowsiness in most people, pseudoephedrine does not.
Common brand names and formulations
Pseudoephedrine is found in many well-known cold and influenza medications.
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Sudafed (original formulation)
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Claritin-D
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Zyrtec-D
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Advil Cold and Sinus
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Mucinex D
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Tylenol Sinus + Headache
These are usually available in prolonged-release and instant-release forms. Extended-release tablet provides longer lasting effects (upto 12 hours), whereas immediate-release tablet offers faster relief, but requires more frequent use.
Side effects and precautions
Although pseudoephedrine can be safe when used properly, it can cause adverse effects in certain people, especially those with certain health conditions. Side effects can include:
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Restlessness or nervousness
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Insomnia
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Increased heartbeat (tachycardia).
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Elevated blood tension
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Headaches
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Dry Mouth
Other side effects that can be more serious include heart palpitations or anxiety.
Who Should Avoid Pseudoephedrine
It is not recommended for everyone to take pseudoephedrine. The drug is contraindicated in:
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High blood pressure (hypertension)
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Heart Disease
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Glaucoma
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Thyroid disorders
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Diabetes
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Enlarged prostate (BPH)
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Seizure disorders
Pseudoephedrine can worsen symptoms in these patients or interfere with medications. If you are in any of these categories, it’s best to speak with a pharmacist or doctor before using cold and flu pills.
Pseudoephedrine Regulations
In many countries such as the United States of America, Australia and parts Europe, due to its chemical resemblance to Methamphetamine it is subject to stringent regulations. It is used to make methamphetamine – a powerful stimulant drug – illegally.
Typically, these regulations include:
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Purchasing limits (maximum grams per month)
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ID requirements
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Behind-the-counter storage
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Logbook records
Because of these restrictions, you may be required to show identification and sign a registry when buying pseudoephedrine-containing products at a pharmacy.
Dosage and Usage Guidelines
The dosage can be adjusted based on weight, age and the product formulation. However, general guidelines are often given for adults, including:
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Immediate Release Tablets: 60mg every 4 to 6 hrs (maximum of 240mg per day).
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Extended Release Tablets: Maximum of 240 mg in a day.
For children the dosage should be reduced and the instructions must be followed exactly as specified on the label of the medication or by a health care professional. Children below the age of 4 years shouldn’t be given pseudoephedrine without a doctor’s advice.
It is important that you read the instructions carefully, and do not exceed the recommended dosage. The overuse of this medication can cause serious side effects, such as stroke, high blood pressure and irregular heartbeats.
Safety Tips
How to use pseudoephedrine cold and flu tablets safely
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Read the labels of ingredients before taking any other cold remedies.
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Avoid caffeine as well as other stimulants. They can cause pseudoephedrine to have more side effects.
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Take with water or food for a reduction in stomach upset.
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To prevent insomnia, avoid taking medications close to bedtime
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Before using, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other medications or have a pre-existing condition.
Alternatives to Pseudoephedrine
Alternative decongestants such as Phenylephrine can be used if you are unable to take pseudoephedrine. Orally taken phenylephrine has been shown to be less effective. Nasal Sprays that contain oxymetazoline and saline can also relieve nasal congestion, but they have systemic side-effects. They are usually recommended only for short-term usage.
Conclusion
Cold and flu tablets that contain pseudoephedrine have proven to be effective in relieving nasal and sinus congested symptoms, and millions of people benefit from them each year. Although pseudoephedrine has many benefits, it is important to use it responsibly and with awareness because of its side effects and potential abuse risks. Read labels carefully, follow the dosage instructions and speak to your healthcare provider if you are concerned or have preexisting conditions. When used correctly, pseudoephedrine is a powerful weapon in the fight against colds and influenza.
