iHeard Asset

Oral Phenylephrine (PE)

Finding PE on over-the-counter medicine labels

Suggested Caption:

The FDA recently advised that there is insufficient evidence to support oral phenylephrine as a decongestant ingredient in over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold products. To find and avoid this ingredient when looking at oral decongestant medicine this season, check the “Active Ingredients” label on the back of the package before buying.

To learn more about this and other health topics in St. Louis, visit iHeardSTL.org or follow @iHeard_STL.

#iHeardSTL #OTCLabel101 #KnowYourMeds


Does oral phenylephrine work as a decongestant?

Oral phenylephrine, considered a decongestant, is an active ingredient in many common over-the-counter oral cough & cold medicines. ⚠️There’s just one problem: the Food and Drug Administration says it may not work.⚠️

Did you hear about this?

An advisory committee to the FDA has agreed that insufficient evidence supports oral phenylephrine (PE) as a decongestant. PE is an ingredient in over-the-counter decongestants, and there is limited and conflicting evidence on how well it works when taken orally. Nasal sprays with PE are still effective. Neither the FDA nor the committee have concerns about the safety of this decongestant, only its effectiveness when taken orally. Protecting Americans by assuring the safety and effectiveness of medicines remains a core function of FDA.

To learn more about this and other health topics in St. Louis, visit iHeardSTL.org or follow @iHeard_STL.

#iHeardSTL #FDA #ColdSeason


Does oral phenylephrine work as a decongestant?

Taking care of your well-being starts with understanding what you’re putting into your body. Here’s a short guide on how to read an over-the-counter (OTC) medication label.

Swipe to explore.

To learn more about this and other health topics in St. Louis, visit iHeardSTL.org or follow @iHeard_STL.

#iHeardSTL #OTCLabel101 #KnowYourMeds

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *