Pseudoephedrine

About pseudoephedrine

Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant used to treat nasal and sinus congestion. This occurs when the blood vessels and tissues in the nose and sinuses become inflamed causing the feeling of a blocked nose and headache. Pseudoephedrine causes the blood vessels to shrink helping to relieve these symptoms.

Before taking pseudoephedrine

Before taking pseudoephedrine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have heart disease.
• If you have kidney problems.
• If you have high blood pressure.
• If you have diabetes mellitus.
• If you have glaucoma.
• If you have an overactive thyroid.
• If you suffer from prostate problems.
• If you are taking (or have recently taken) antidepressants known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI's).
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

• Pseudoephedrine is not recommended in children under 6 years of age.

How to take pseudoephedrine

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take pseudoephedrine exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. It should not be taken for more than 5 days in children (ages 6-12 only).

Getting the most from your treatment

• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines. Pseudoephedrine must not be taken with other remedies which contain a decongestant.

Can pseudoephedrine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome:

Anxiety, restlessness, problems sleeping, being aware of a fast or fluttering heartbeat.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store pseudoephedrine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines