Phenylpropanolamine Explained

Drug

Phenylpropanolamine

Phenylpropanolamine is a drug used to relieve nasal congestion due to colds, hay fever, upper respiratory allergies, and sinusitis. It is available in nonprescription products alone and in combination with other nonprescription drugs, to treat symptoms of allergy, colds, and upper respiratory infections. Phenylpropanolamine is also used as an adjunct to calorie restriction in short-term weight loss. It is available in nonprescription products alone and in combination with other ingredients for weight loss.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken steps to remove phenylpropanolamine from all drug products and has issued a public health advisory concerning phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride. This drug is an ingredient used in many over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription cough and cold medications as a decongestant and in over-the-counter weight loss products. Phenylpropanolamine has been found to increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding into the brain or into tissue surrounding the brain) in women. Men may also be at risk. Although the risk of hemorrhagic stroke is very low, FDA recommends that consumers not use any products that contain phenylpropanolamine.

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, & Foods

Negative Interactions
1
- Phenylpropanolamine
  Ephedra
  Potential Negative Interaction
  Ephedra is the plant from which the drug ephedrine was originally isolated. Phenylpropanolamine and ephedrine have similar effects and side effects. Until 2004, ephedra, also called ma huang, was used in many herbal products including supplements promoted for weight loss.
  While interactions between phenylpropanolamine and ephedra have not been reported, it seems likely that such interactions could occur. To prevent potential problems, people taking phenylpropanolamine-containing products should avoid using ephedra/ephedrine-containing products.
  Ephedra
  Phenylpropanolamine
  ×
  1. Threlkeld DS, ed. Respiratory Drugs, Sympathomimetics. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1994, 173a-3h.

The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the Uses and Precautions tabs or the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.

Prescription prices may vary from pharmacy to pharmacy and are subject to change. The pricing estimates given are based on the most recent information available and may change based on when you actually fill your prescription at the pharmacy.

DISCOUNT ONLY - NOT INSURANCE. Discounts are available exclusively through participating pharmacies. The range of the discounts will vary depending on the type of prescription and the pharmacy chosen. This program does not make payments directly to pharmacies. Members are required to pay for all prescription purchases. Cannot be used in conjunction with insurance. You may contact customer care anytime with questions or concerns, to cancel your registration, or to obtain further information. This program is administered by Medical Security Card Company, LLC, Tucson, AZ.

*Average and up to savings percentages are based on all discounted prescriptions that were run through the WellRx program in 2022. Discount percentages represent savings provided off of pharmacies’ retail prices for consumers who do not have a discount program and pay cash.

The day supply is based upon the average dispensing patterns for the specific drug and strength. The Program, as well as the prices and the list of covered drugs, can be modified at any time without notice.

Phenylpropanolamine

Drug