PRODUCT DETAILS
Composition
- Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride (main active ingredient)
- Excipients such as:
- Lactose or starch
- Magnesium stearate
- Cellulose derivatives
The key active drug is pseudoephedrine, a nasal decongestant.
Uses / Indications
- Blocked or stuffy nose (nasal congestion)
- Sinus congestion and pressure
- Cold and flu-related nasal blockage
- Allergic rhinitis (hay fever symptoms)
It works by narrowing swollen blood vessels in the nasal passages, making breathing easier.
Direction of Use
- Adults and children (usually 12 years and over, depending on product strength)
- Typical dose: 1 tablet every 4–6 hours as needed
- Do not exceed maximum daily dose stated on pack
- Short-term use only (usually a few days)
- Swallow with water
Side Effects
Common:
- Insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
- Nervousness or restlessness
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
Serious (less common):
- Increased heart rate (palpitations)
- High blood pressure
- Anxiety or agitation
- Urinary retention
- Rare hallucinations or confusion
Warnings / Precautions
- Can raise blood pressure → use carefully in hypertension
- May cause insomnia (avoid taking late in day)
- Avoid alcohol (increases side effects)
- Do NOT use with:
- MAO inhibitors (dangerous BP rise)
- Other decongestants (overdose risk)
- Use caution in:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disorders
- Glaucoma
- Prostate enlargement
Drug Interactions
- MAO inhibitors (very dangerous interaction)
- Other sympathomimetic drugs (decongestants, stimulants)
- Antidepressants (especially tricyclics/SSRIs)
- Blood pressure medications (reduced effectiveness)
- Caffeine or stimulants (increased side effects)
Contraindications / Caution
Avoid if:
- Allergy to pseudoephedrine
- Severe or uncontrolled hypertension
- Severe coronary heart disease
- Recent MAOI use (within 14 days)
- Severe kidney disease
- Hyperthyroidism