Type of medicine: nasal decongestant
Generic and brand names: phenylephrine, nasal; Alconefrin; Nasop; Neo-Synephrine; Nostril; Rhinall; Vicks Sinex 4 Hour (There may be other brand names for this medicine.)
This medicine is used in the nose for temporary relief of nasal congestion due to colds, hay fever or other allergies, or sinus problems. You can buy this medicine without a prescription.
Before taking this medicine, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had:
Females of childbearing age: Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine without your healthcare provider's approval.
Check the label on the medicine for directions about your specific dose. Use this medicine exactly as directed. If your healthcare provider has not given you specific instructions, follow the directions that come in the medicine package. Do not use more or use it longer than directed. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about anything you do not understand.
Blow your nose before using the medicine. To use the nasal spray, keep your head upright and sniff in the spray while you squeeze the bottle. Do this in both nostrils. Sniff hard for a few minutes after use. Wait a few minutes and then blow your nose gently. Spray both nostrils again if directed.
Rinse the tip with hot water after using, and wipe with a clean tissue. Close tightly after each use. To avoid spreading infection, do not allow others to use your medicine.
Use this medicine exactly as directed. Do not use it for more than 3 days in a row without your healthcare provider's approval. If you use decongestants more often than directed, nasal congestion may get worse.
An acute overdose of this medicine is not likely to cause life-threatening symptoms. If you think that you or anyone else may have taken too much of this medicine, call the poison control center at 800-222-1222.
Do not give a child under age 4 any cough and cold medicines unless specifically instructed to do so by your healthcare provider. Talk with your healthcare provider about this.
If your symptoms do not improve in 7 days or if they get worse, tell your healthcare provider.
If you need emergency care, surgery, or dental work, tell the healthcare provider or dentist you are using this medicine.
Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.
Life-threatening (Report these to your healthcare provider right away). If you cannot reach your healthcare provider right away, get emergency medical care or call 911 for help): Allergic reaction (hives; itching; rash; trouble breathing; chest pain or tightness in your chest; swelling of your lips, tongue, and throat).
Serious (report these to your healthcare provider right away): Lightheadedness, trembling, fast or slow heartbeat, chest pain, hallucinations or unusual behavior, seizures, trouble urinating.
Other: Burning, dryness, or stinging in your nose; sneezing; headache; restlessness; trouble sleeping.
When you take this medicine with other medicines, it can change the way this or any of the other medicines work. Nonprescription medicines, vitamins, natural remedies, and certain foods may also interact. Using these products together might cause harmful side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are taking:
If you are not sure if your medicines might interact, ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Keep a list of all your medicines with you. List all the prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins that you take. Be sure that you tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.
Store this medicine at room temperature. Keep the container tightly closed. Protect it from heat, high humidity, and bright light.
This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.
Ask your pharmacist for the best way to dispose of outdated medicine or medicine you have not used. Do not throw medicine in the trash.
Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Do not share medicines with other people.
