Phenylpropanolamine

Information about Phenylpropanolamine

Phenylpropanolamine uses

Phenylpropanolamine is used in the treatment of allergic conditions.

How phenylpropanolamine works

Phenylpropanolamine belongs to a class of medications called nasal decongestants. It stimulates receptors on blood vessels in the nose and sinuses leading to its constriction and reduction in blood flow thereby relieving congestion.
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Common side effects of phenylpropanolamine

Systemic hypertension (high blood pressure), Nausea, Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), Palpitations

Available Medicine for Phenylpropanolamine

    Expert advice for Phenylpropanolamine

    • Do not continue phenylpropanolamine for more than 7 days if your condition does not improve or if you have high fever.
    • Tell your doctor if you have high blood pressure, heart problems, liver or kidney disease, diabetes, prostate enlargement or visual problems due to increased pressure in the eyes (glaucoma).
    • Seek immediate medical attention and discontinue medication if you experience difficulty in breathing, sudden swelling or skin reactions, fits, rapid heartbeat or hallucinations.
    • Use with caution if you are a woman or an elderly patient. Woman may be at a higher risk of haemorrhagic stroke (bleeding in the brain).
    • Avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel dizzy or drowsy after taking phenylpropanolamine.
    • Tell your doctor if you are or planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.
    • Do not take if allergic to phenylpropanolamine or any of its ingredients.

    Frequently asked questions for Phenylpropanolamine

    Phenylpropanolamine

    Q. Is phenylpropanolamine the same as phenylephrine?
    Phenylpropanolamine and phenylephrine are different drugs belonging to the same class of medications (nasal decongestants). Both are used to relieve blocked nose or sinuses caused by common cold and seasonal nasal allergies (hay fever)
    Q. Does Phenylpropanolamine cause stroke?
    Phenylpropanolamine has shown to increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding in the brain). Women are at a higher risk.
    Q. Is Phenylpropanolamine a controlled substance?
    Phenylpropanolamine is a controlled substance since it can be used for manufacturing of illegal drugs
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    Q. Is Phenylpropanolamine still on the market?
    Phenylpropanolamine is banned in India due to increased risk of haemorrhagic stroke (bleeding in the brain) and is no longer marketed in India

    Content on this page was last updated on 12 September, 2022, by Dr. Varun Gupta (MD Pharmacology)