Phenylephrine is an over-the-counter medicine typically used to treat nasal and sinus congestion. This eMedTV Web resource offers a complete overview of this drug, including information on how it works, possible side effects, and general precautions.
Dizziness, insomnia, and headaches are some of the common side effects of phenylephrine. This eMedTV article takes an in-depth look at possible side effects of this drug, including potentially serious side effects that may require immediate medical care.
Phenylephrine products are used for a variety of purposes. This page from the eMedTV Web site outlines the various forms and uses of phenylephrine, including information on its safety in children and possible off-label uses of the drug.
Before using phenylephrine, it is important to know that this drug may interact with certain medicines. This eMedTV page outlines the medications that may cause negative phenylephrine drug interactions and describes the problems that may occur.
If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or glaucoma, you may not be able to use phenylephrine. This eMedTV resource takes a look at other precautions and warnings with phenylephrine, including a list of people who may not be able to use this drug.
As this eMedTV Web article explains, an overdose of phenylephrine can result in seizures, a fast heart rate, and vomiting, among other symptoms. Seek immediate medical attention if you believe you or someone else has overdosed on this drug.
As this section of the eMedTV Web site explains, phenylephrine may not be safe for use during pregnancy. This article discusses pregnancy and phenylephrine, describing problems that may occur, such as birth defects and decreased oxygen to the fetus.
As this selection from the eMedTV Web library explains, it is not known if phenylephrine passes through breast milk. However, animal studies on breastfeeding and phenylephrine have shown that this medication can decrease the supply of breast milk.
