What is Neosynephrine?

Neosynephrine (phenylephrine) is a decongestant readily available over the counter without a prescription. The drug acts by shrinking blood vessels in the chest, nose, and sinuses. This helps decrease secretions from the nose and sinuses and reduces congestion.

What can Neosynephrine be used to treat?

Neosynephrine is available in various formulations including a pill, injection and a nasal spray. Consumers usually take Neosynephrine to treat allergies, hay fever, sinus irritation, and symptoms of a common cold.

In the hospital setting, Neosynephrine is sometimes used to treat low blood pressure and increase heart rate.

What are side effects of Neosynephrine?

Side effects with nasal Neosynephrine are quite rare. A Few side effects reported include the following:

- Allergic reaction that may result in difficult breathing,
swelling of the lips or tongue
- Appearance of hives or itching
- Fast heart rate
- Anxiety or hallucinations
- Lightheadedness
- Lack of sleep
- Headache
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Seizures

Most of these side effects are transient and usually resolve when the drug is discontinued