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Pseudoephedrine, also known as pseudoephedrine hydrochloride, is a decongestant that helps to clear your nose and sinuses when you’ve got a cold or a stuffy nose.
If you’re suffering with a blocked nose that’s driving you crazy then pseudoephedrine tablets or syrups can help you to breathe more easily.
Pseudoephedrine can be found in cold medicines and decongestants from Sudafed, Benylin, Day Nurse and more.
Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride can work on its own to ease your sinuses or might be included with other active ingredients which work to ease other cold and flu symptoms, like pholcodine, which is a cough suppressant, and the popular pain relief medication paracetamol.
Like any medication, medicines that contain pseudoephedrine can have side effects. Some of the most common side effects of pseudoephedrine include:
For a full list of the possible side effects of your own medication, read the patient information leaflet that comes with the product thoroughly.
If you experience any side effects while using this product, stop use and speak to your doctor or pharmacist if necessary.
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding then you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication, including those which contain pseudoephedrine.
Do not take pseudoephedrine unless a medical professional advises that you should.
Although there are no warnings against drinking alcohol while taking pseudoephedrine, you should try not to drink alcohol while you’re taking any medication.
If you drink alcohol while taking pseudoephedrine then you may experience side effects such as dizziness, which could make it dangerous for you to drive.
If you experience any side effects that could affect your driving (e.g. dizziness, blurred vision, drowsiness, etc.) while taking any medication, do not attempt to drive or use any tools or machinery until you are absolutely sure that you are safe to do so.
Some medicines which contain pseudoephedrine can be taken by children over the age of 6, such as Sudafed Decongestant Liquid.
However, every medication can have different age restrictions, especially those where pseudoephedrine is used alongside other active ingredients, so be sure to check that the medicine is right for your child before giving it to them.
If you’re unsure about the age limitations on any medication, speak to your doctor or pharmacist before giving the product to your child.
