Pseudoephedrine
Pseudoephedrine is a sympathomimetic decongestant that provides temporary relief from nasal congestion caused by colds, allergies, and sinus infections. It works by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing swelling and congestion. This medication is available over-the-counter in many regions and is commonly combined with other cold or allergy medications.
A nasal decongestant that relieves stuffy nose by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- R01BA02
- RxNorm
- 8133
- Generic
- Pseudoephedrine
- Class
- atc-r01
- Brands
- Wal-Act, Wal-itin D, Lortuss EX, Wal-Fex D, M-End Max D, Stahist AD, Zephrex-D, Nexafed, Allerclear, Zodryl DEC, Zodryl DAC, Hycofenix, Sudafed, A-Phedrin, Allegra-D
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 5
- Onset (min)
- 30
- Duration (h)
- 6
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, capsule, extended-release tablet, oral liquid
- Regions
- United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Europe, Asia, South America
- Monitoring
- blood pressure, heart rate
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 60mg every 4-6 hours
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- as needed, max 240mg daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 30mg every 4-6 hours
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- as needed, max 120mg daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 30mg every 4-6 hours
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- as needed, max 120mg daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if clearly needed and benefits outweigh risks
monitor blood pressure and fetal heart rate
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid or use lowest effective dose
monitor infant for irritability or sleep disturbances
observe infant for adverse effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
under 2 yearsdo not use
do not use in infants under 2 years of age
n/a
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
2 to 12 yearsweight-based dosing required
use only under healthcare provider supervision with appropriate pediatric dosing
monitor for hyperactivity and cardiovascular effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlystart with lowest effective dose
use with caution due to increased sensitivity to cardiovascular effects
monitor blood pressure and heart rate
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild to moderatereduce dose or increase dosing interval
adjust dose based on renal function
monitor renal function and for adverse effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
moderate to severeuse with caution
monitor for increased sensitivity to drug effects
monitor liver function and for adverse effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information
Drug class
Drug class information
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses
Regulation status
Regulatory classification
Temporary relief of nasal congestion from upper respiratory infections, common cold, allergies, and sinusitis. Also used for ear congestion and sinus pressure.
Pseudoephedrine is an alpha-adrenergic agonist that causes vasoconstriction in the blood vessels of the nasal mucosa, reducing swelling and mucus production in the nasal passages and sinuses.
May cause insomnia, nervousness, or elevated blood pressure. Not recommended for individuals with uncontrolled hypertension, heart disease, or glaucoma. Due to its use in illicit drug manufacturing, purchase may be restricted and limits may apply in many countries. Consult a healthcare provider before use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy