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Nasal Decongestant

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Active ingredient
Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 10 mg
Other brand names
Drug class
alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Tablet, Film Coated
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2022
Label revision date
April 22, 2025
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Active ingredient
Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 10 mg
Other brand names
Drug class
alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Tablet, Film Coated
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2022
Label revision date
April 22, 2025
Manufacturer
Walgreen Company
Registration number
M012
NDC root
0363-4531
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Packaging Info (4 NDCs)
Packaging & NDC Codes (4)

If you are a healthcare professional or from the pharmaceutical industry please visit this version.

If you are a consumer or patient please visit this version.

Drug Overview

Phenylephrine HCl is a nasal decongestant that helps temporarily relieve sinus and nasal congestion caused by the common cold, hay fever, or other upper respiratory allergies. It works by reducing swelling in the nasal passages, making it easier for you to breathe. This medication is a maximum strength option and is free from pseudoephedrine, which is found in some other decongestants.

You can find Phenylephrine HCl in convenient tablet form, with each package containing 36 tablets. It is a product recommended by pharmacists and is designed to provide effective relief from congestion.

Uses

If you're dealing with sinus congestion and pressure, this medication can help provide temporary relief. It’s also effective for easing nasal congestion caused by the common cold, hay fever, or other upper respiratory allergies. This means you can breathe easier and feel more comfortable when you're experiencing these common issues.

Rest assured, there are no known teratogenic effects (which means it doesn't cause birth defects) associated with this medication, making it a safer option for those concerned about such risks.

Dosage and Administration

If you are an adult or a child aged 12 years and older, you should take 1 tablet every 4 hours as needed. However, make sure not to exceed 6 tablets in a 24-hour period to avoid potential side effects.

For children under 12 years old, it’s important to consult a doctor before giving them this medication. They can provide guidance on the appropriate dosage and ensure it’s safe for your child. Always follow these instructions carefully to ensure safe and effective use of the medication.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which are medications often prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, do not use this product for at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI. If you're unsure whether your prescription includes an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

It's also important to follow the recommended dosage carefully. Do not exceed the suggested amount, as misuse can lead to serious health issues. Always prioritize your safety and well-being by adhering to these guidelines.

Side Effects

If you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness while using this product, it's important to stop using it and consult your doctor. Additionally, if your symptoms do not improve within 7 days or if you develop a fever, seek medical advice.

You should not use this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication used for depression, psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. It's also advised to wait at least 2 weeks after stopping an MAOI before using this product. If you're unsure whether your medication contains an MAOI, please check with your doctor or pharmacist.

Warnings and Precautions

You should not use this medication if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of drug used for depression, certain psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, you should wait at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI before starting this medication. If you’re unsure whether your prescription includes an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Before using this product, it’s important to talk to your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: heart disease, diabetes, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. If you experience an overdose, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately. You should also stop taking the medication and call your doctor if you feel nervous, dizzy, or unable to sleep, or if your symptoms do not improve within seven days or occur with a fever.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center. Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual symptoms that are more severe than typical side effects.

Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen; acting quickly can make a significant difference in your safety. Always prioritize your health and well-being by reaching out for professional assistance in these situations.

Pregnancy Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this medication. They can provide guidance on whether it’s safe for you and your baby. Always prioritize your health and the health of your child by seeking expert advice.

Lactation Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication. This ensures that you understand any potential risks and can make informed decisions about your health and the health of your baby. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor regarding your breastfeeding journey.

Pediatric Use

If you are considering this medication for your child, it's important to know that children under 12 years old should consult a doctor before use. For those aged 12 and older, the recommended dosage is one tablet every four hours, but do not exceed six tablets in a 24-hour period.

Always keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of an overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately. Your child's safety is paramount, so please follow these guidelines carefully.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there is no specific information available about dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. This means that if you or a loved one is an older adult considering this medication, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that the information provided does not include specific guidelines for dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations related to renal impairment (kidney issues). This means that there are no tailored recommendations for how your treatment may need to be adjusted based on your kidney function.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that your treatment is safe and effective, especially if you have concerns about your kidney health. They can provide guidance based on your individual situation.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or precautions for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication should be used if you have hepatic impairment (liver issues).

Before starting any new medication, including this one, you should discuss your liver health with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the best approach for your treatment and ensure your safety.

Drug Interactions

It's important to be cautious about combining medications. If you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication used for depression, certain psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson’s disease, you should not use this product. Additionally, you should wait at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI before starting this medication. If you're unsure whether your current prescription includes an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

Always discuss any medications you are taking with your healthcare provider to ensure your safety and avoid potentially harmful interactions. Your health is a priority, and your provider can help you navigate any concerns.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of your product, please store it at room temperature, ideally around 25°C (77°F). It’s acceptable for the temperature to vary between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Always check the end flap of the package for the expiration date and lot number to confirm its validity.

When handling the product, be cautious not to use it if the outer package is opened or if the blister (the sealed compartment that holds the product) is torn or broken. This tamper-evident feature is crucial for your safety, so please inspect the packaging carefully before use.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 1 tablet every 4 hours, but do not exceed 6 tablets in a 24-hour period. If the patient is under 12 years old, it's important to consult a doctor for appropriate dosing guidance.

FAQ

What is Phenylephrine HCl used for?

Phenylephrine HCl is a nasal decongestant that temporarily relieves sinus congestion and pressure, as well as nasal congestion due to the common cold, hay fever, or other upper respiratory allergies.

How should I take Phenylephrine HCl?

Adults and children 12 years and over should take 1 tablet every 4 hours, not exceeding 6 tablets in 24 hours. For children under 12 years, consult a doctor.

Are there any contraindications for using Phenylephrine HCl?

Do not use Phenylephrine HCl if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have taken one within the last 2 weeks. Consult a doctor or pharmacist if unsure.

What should I do if I experience side effects?

Stop using Phenylephrine HCl and consult a doctor if you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, or if symptoms do not improve within 7 days or occur with fever.

Is Phenylephrine HCl safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before using Phenylephrine HCl.

What precautions should I take before using Phenylephrine HCl?

Consult a doctor before use if you have heart disease, diabetes, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, or difficulty urinating due to prostate enlargement.

How should I store Phenylephrine HCl?

Store Phenylephrine HCl at 25°C (77°F), with permitted excursions between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F).

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Nasal Decongestant (phenylephrine hcl). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Nasal Decongestant.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Nasal Decongestant, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

PHENYLEPHRINE HCl is an active ingredient present at a concentration of 10 mg per tablet, serving as a nasal decongestant. This formulation is designed to provide maximum strength relief from sinus pressure and congestion while being free of pseudoephedrine. The product is packaged in a container containing 36 tablets. It is important to note that the packaging is tamper evident; the product should not be used if the package is opened or if the blister unit is torn, broken, or shows any signs of tampering. This product is distributed by Walgreen Co., located in Deerfield, IL 60015, and is identified by the National Drug Code (NDC) 0363-4531-07.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of sinus congestion and pressure. It is also indicated for the temporary relief of nasal congestion associated with the common cold, hay fever, or other upper respiratory allergies.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

Adults and children aged 12 years and over are advised to take 1 tablet every 4 hours as needed. The maximum recommended dosage is 6 tablets within a 24-hour period.

For children under 12 years of age, it is recommended to consult a physician for appropriate dosing guidance.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which includes certain medications for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, use is contraindicated for 2 weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. Patients should consult a healthcare professional if uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI.

Exceeding the recommended dosage while using this product is also contraindicated.

Warnings and Precautions

It is imperative to adhere to the following warnings and precautions to ensure the safe use of this product.

Warnings The use of this product is contraindicated in individuals currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which includes certain medications prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, this product should not be used for a period of two weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. If there is uncertainty regarding whether a prescription medication contains an MAOI, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, prior to use.

General Precautions Before using this product, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider if the patient has any of the following conditions:

  • Heart disease

  • Diabetes

  • Thyroid disease

  • High blood pressure

  • Difficulty in urination due to prostate gland enlargement

Emergency Situations In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the Poison Control Center should be contacted without delay.

Discontinuation of Use Patients should discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if they experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Nervousness

  • Dizziness

  • Sleeplessness

  • If symptoms do not improve within seven days or are accompanied by fever

These precautions are critical for the safe administration of the product and should be strictly followed.

Side Effects

Patients should discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, if symptoms do not improve within 7 days or are accompanied by fever, medical advice should be sought.

This product is contraindicated in patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which includes certain medications for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Furthermore, it should not be used for 2 weeks following the cessation of an MAOI. Patients uncertain about whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI are advised to consult a doctor or pharmacist prior to using this product.

Drug Interactions

The concomitant use of this product with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) is contraindicated. MAOIs are typically prescribed for the treatment of depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, and Parkinson’s disease. Patients should not take this product while on MAOIs or for a minimum of two weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI.

It is essential for patients to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, to verify whether their current prescription medication contains an MAOI before initiating treatment with this product.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Nasal Decongestant (phenylephrine hcl). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Nasal Decongestant.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should consult a healthcare professional before use. For adolescents and adults aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 1 tablet every 4 hours, with a maximum of 6 tablets in a 24-hour period.

It is essential to keep this medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or contact a Poison Control Center without delay.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding the use of this medication, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. It is important to assess the potential risks and benefits associated with the use of this drug during pregnancy and lactation. Healthcare providers can offer guidance based on individual circumstances and the latest clinical data.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is currently no available data on the excretion of this drug in human breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when administering this medication to lactating individuals.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have not been specifically addressed in the prescribing information regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with reduced kidney function, as the absence of detailed guidance necessitates careful clinical judgment and monitoring of these patients.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to this drug. Consequently, there are no dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions outlined for individuals with compromised liver function. It is recommended that healthcare providers exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with hepatic impairment, given the lack of data on its safety and efficacy in this population. Regular monitoring of liver function may be prudent in these cases, although specific parameters are not defined in the prescribing information.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center without delay. Prompt intervention is crucial to mitigate potential adverse effects associated with the overdose.

Healthcare professionals should be vigilant for symptoms that may arise from an overdose, although specific symptoms are not detailed in the provided information. The management of an overdose typically involves supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the individual patient's needs.

It is essential for healthcare providers to remain informed about the appropriate protocols for managing overdose situations, ensuring that patients receive timely and effective care.

Nonclinical Toxicology

If pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult a health professional prior to use. No specific non-teratogenic effects have been identified in the available data. Additionally, there are no detailed findings regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology provided in the current information.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has shown that the following adverse reactions may occur: nervousness, dizziness, and sleeplessness. These events have been reported voluntarily or identified through surveillance programs.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center in the event of an overdose. It is crucial to inform patients that this product should not be used concurrently with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which are medications prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Patients should be instructed to refrain from using this product for at least two weeks after discontinuing an MAOI. If patients are uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI, they should be encouraged to consult with their doctor or pharmacist.

Patients should be informed to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, they should be advised to stop using the product and seek medical advice if their symptoms do not improve within seven days or if they experience symptoms accompanied by fever.

It is important to emphasize to patients the necessity of adhering to the recommended dosage and not exceeding it. Healthcare providers should also encourage patients to consult with a doctor prior to use if they have any of the following conditions: heart disease, diabetes, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in tamper-evident packaging. It should not be used if the outer package is opened or if the blister is torn or broken.

Storage conditions require the product to be maintained at a temperature of 25°C (77°F), with permissible excursions between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). For reference, the expiration date and lot number can be found on the end flap of the packaging.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is one tablet every four hours, with a maximum of six tablets in a 24-hour period. For children under 12 years, it is advised to consult a doctor for appropriate dosing guidance.

There is no additional information available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, patient counseling, or postmarketing experiences.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Nasal Decongestant, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Nasal Decongestant, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

Learn more in our Editorial Policy

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Primary FDA sources:

Orange Book data shown on this page are limited to Regulatory Status (Rx), Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC), and Mechanism of Action (MoA).

Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.