You are probably familiar with that annoying feeling when you have a cold, when your nose is blocked and you can't even breathe, right? Or maybe you have a sinus problem and a headache and pain around your nose... Phenylephrine is a popular medicine that many of us use and that doctors prescribe at times like these. So, even though we buy this pill from the pharmacy and drink it, we don't really know what it really is, how it works, and what things to be careful about when taking it. That's why, today we will talk about everything about Phenylephrine very simply and in a friendly way.
What kind of medicine is Phenylephrine?
Simply put, this is a medicine that reduces swelling inside the nose and relieves congestion. We call these decongestants .
Imagine, there is a very delicate network of blood vessels inside our nose. When we have a cold, an allergy, or a sinus infection, these blood vessels swell and become larger. That's when the space inside the nose becomes less, and we feel a 'stuffy nose'.
Phenylephrine works by causing those swollen blood vessels to contract a little. This helps reduce swelling inside your nose, opens up space, and makes it easier for you to breathe. It also helps reduce nasal congestion , sinus pressure, and pain.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
This is very important. Phenylephrine is not a one-size-fits-all medication. If you have any of the following medical conditions or conditions, you should definitely tell your doctor before taking this medication.
| Condition/Occasion | Why should you care? |
|---|---|
| High blood pressure | Phenylephrine can further increase blood pressure. |
| Heart disease | It may change the heart rate or put more strain on the heart. |
| Diabetes | Sometimes it can affect blood sugar levels. |
| Thyroid disease | Side effects may increase if the thyroid gland is overactive. |
| Prostate problems | There is a possibility that the difficulty in urinating may increase. |
| Taking MAOI medications | These are medications used to treat depression. It is very dangerous to take Phenylephrine if you have taken these within the last 14 days. |
| Being pregnant or trying to get pregnant | You should talk to your doctor about the possible effects on the baby. |
| Being a breastfeeding mother | Seek medical advice about whether the medicine can be given to the baby through breast milk. |
Also, don't forget to mention if you have had an allergy to this medicine or any other decongestant, food, or dye in the past.
The correct way to use the medicine
Take this pill with a glass of water. Some people may experience a slight stomach upset or burning sensation when taking this medicine. If this happens, take the medicine with a meal or a glass of milk. This will help to avoid this discomfort to a great extent.
The most important thing is to take only the dose prescribed by your doctor, at the right time. Never take more than the prescribed dose, thinking, "My nose is still stuffy, I can take another pill. " Doing so can cause dangerous side effects.
If you give it to children...
Doctors sometimes prescribe this medicine to children over 6 years of age. But it should be done only on medical advice. The dosage given to children is different from the dosage given to adults. Therefore, avoid giving adult medicines to children.
If you take an old person...
Generally, people over 60 years of age may have a slightly stronger response to this medicine. Therefore, they may need a lower dose. Your doctor will advise you on this.
What to do if you take too much medicine (overdose)?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, that is, you have taken more than the prescribed dose, do not take it lightly. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital. This is very important.
Other medicines that should not be used with this medicine
Phenylephrine is a medication that can interact with other medications, so it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking.
| Avoid taking Phenylephrine with this medicine. | |
|---|---|
| MAOI drugs (e.g. Parnate, Nardil) | Blood pressure can become dangerously high. |
| Ergot class drugs (given for migraine) | Blood pressure and blood vessels may be affected. |
| Other stimulant medications | Puts more strain on the heart and nervous system. |
| Be careful when taking these together (tell the doctor) | |
| Blood pressure medication | Phenylephrine can reduce the effectiveness of these medications. |
| Other medications for depression | The risk of side effects may increase. |
| Anesthesia | If you are taking this medication before surgery, inform the anesthesiologist. |
This list is not exhaustive. It is important for your own safety to tell your doctor about any traditional medicines, vitamins, or dietary supplements you are taking.
What are the possible side effects of taking the medicine?
Like any medicine, Phenylephrine can cause side effects in some people. Most of these are not serious, but there are some things we should be aware of.
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Heart palpitations | Feeling like your heart is beating fast, like a fluttering in your chest, or an irregular heartbeat. |
| Increased blood pressure | Symptoms such as severe headache and dizziness may occur. |
| Usually not serious (but tell your doctor if it persists) | |
| Insomnia | The stimulant properties of the drug may cause sleep disturbances. |
| Anxiety, nervousness | Feeling strange and anxious. |
| Headache | Slight headache. |
If your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, or if they worsen, or if they are accompanied by a fever, be sure to see a doctor.
How should you store your medicine?
This is also very simple.
- Keep out of reach of children .
- Store at room temperature (between 15-30 degrees Celsius). Keep away from excessive heat and moisture.
- Protect from direct sunlight and light.
- Do not use any medicine that has passed its expiration date for any reason. Dispose of it properly.
Take-Home Message
- Phenylephrine is a medicine that is used to relieve nasal congestion and sinus pressure, and to reduce swelling in the nose.
- Before taking this medication, be sure to tell your doctor if you have other medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or diabetes.
- Never take more than the dosage prescribed by your doctor.
- If you experience a rapid heartbeat, chest tightness, or allergic symptoms (such as facial swelling), seek medical advice immediately.
- If symptoms do not improve after 7 days or if you have a fever, see a doctor again.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not share your medicine with others.
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