This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Phenylephrine is a vasoconstrictor from the sympathomimetic group, used orally and in the form of decongestant nasal sprays for the short-term treatment of the common cold, allergic and vasomotor rhinitis, sinusitis, and in the form of eye drops for conjunctivitis. Occasional adverse effects include tremor, headache, elevated blood pressure, eye irritation, tachycardia, extrasystoles, central nervous system stimulation, and rapid heart rate.
Phenylephrine has sympathomimetic, vasoconstrictive, and decongestant properties. It acts as an agonist at the alpha-1 adrenergic receptor. Within minutes, this leads to a reduction in swelling and secretion in the nasal and pharyngeal passages, pupil dilation, and relief of conjunctivitis symptoms.
Mechanism of action of sympathomimetics, click to enlarge. Illustration © PharmaWiki
