What is the difference between phenylephrine vs pseudoephedrine?

Answer by  labgirl (333)

Pseudoephedrine is a more effective oral decongestant, however, it can be used in the manufacture of methamphetamine, a dangerous street drug. Phenylephrine is recommended against by medical societies and Consumer Reports because it is ineffective; it is on the shelves for marketing. Pseudoephedrine products are behind the pharmacy counter; you do not need a prescription, just ask for them.

Answer by  canospamo (87)

Published studies generally indicate that pseudoephedrine is a more effective decongestant than is phenylephrine. Decongestant products containing phenylephrine only appeared on drugstore shelves after U.S. states passed laws making it more difficult to buy products with pseudoephedrine.

Answer by  sspugs (496)

They are both decongestants. Phenylephrine has no common side effects, while pseudoephedrine can cause insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness. This is why the pseudoephedrine is only sold behind the pharmacy counter and you can only get a certain number of items. Addicts like this one.

Answer by  Anitha72 (32)

Phenylephrine is used for pupil dilation and it has less side effects than pseudoephedrine. Side effects of the phenylephrine are very mild, let us say Hypertension and hyperemia. But the pseudoephedrine has adverse side effects CNS stimulation, sleepiness, pschyosis, dizziness, and some skin reactions like allergic rhinitis. So Phenylehrine is far more better than the latter.

Answer by  EdnaS (92)

Phenylephrine is a common decongestant, and is 'off patent' meaning many generic brands are available. Pseudoephedrine was more commonly used until the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005 placed restrictions on its use as it's a key component in synthesising illegal drugs.

Answer by  BrighamMSIV (229)

Phenylephrine is a DIRECT AGONIST at the alpha-1 receptors. This action allows phenylephrine to directly vasoconstrict vessels, allowing decreased blood flow to the nasal mucosa and higher blood pressure systemically. Pseudoephedrine is a SYMPATHOMIMETIC which causes release of the body's own epinephrine and norepinephrine, indirectly causing vasoconstriction, increased heart rate, anxiety, and other "adrenaline-type" symptoms.

Answer by  Anonymous

Wow....I had a cold...an I started to take Mucinex with phenelephrine...and my blood pressure jump from 120/80 to 140/90 ....and the pulse from 75 to 100. After stopping the use, my pressure went back to normal.

Answer by  Anonymous

I live in the Caribbean and several times a year (tradewinds and high humidity) suffer with terrible sinuses. Used pseudoephedrine for a while but had terrible side effects, felt like I was on speed. I now use product with phenelephrine in, not as long lasting but no side effects.