What it means
A drug that acts like adrenaline on blood vessels, narrowing them in the nose and sinuses. It is in many cold and allergy products. In the US it is kept behind the pharmacy counter and sold in limited amounts with ID, because it can be used to make methamphetamine. It can raise blood pressure and heart rate and cause nervousness and trouble sleeping.
For the nurse
Ask clients with high blood pressure, heart disease, glaucoma, thyroid disease or an enlarged prostate to check with their provider before using it. It must not be used with MAO inhibitors. Taking it late in the day can keep the client awake.
At a glance
| Drug class | decongestant (sympathomimetic) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Sudafed |
| Spanish | pseudoefedrina |
| Also written | Sudafed |
Related terms
hypertension
Blood pressure that stays higher than normal, at or above 130/80 mm Hg by current US guidelines.
ephedrine
A drug, given by IV injection, that raises blood pressure and heart rate.
phenylephrine
A drug that tightens blood vessels, given IV to raise low blood pressure and used in nose sprays and eye drops.