Summary

The FDA has proposed phasing out oral phenylephrine, a common decongestant in cold medicines like Sudafed PE and DayQuil, after studies showed it is no more effective than a placebo.

The drug, ineffective when swallowed due to breakdown in the stomach, remains usable in nasal sprays.

Alternatives include pseudoephedrine, nasal sprays, and steroid treatments like Flonase.

The regulatory process to remove phenylephrine could take over a year, but experts argue removing ineffective options will help consumers choose better remedies for congestion. Drugmakers are expected to challenge the proposal.

  • @Psythik
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    16 hours ago

    Yes it is. Sold under the brand “Benzedrex”. Walmart has it.

    • @[email protected]
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      213 hours ago

      Oh damn well today I learned. A quick Google said it was banned in the US, but it was their AI summary and I took it at face value. That’s on me.

      • @[email protected]
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        113 hours ago

        So looking into it further, it looks like the active ingredient is Propylhexedrine. Is this the same thing or is the acid what turns it into Benzadrine?

        • @Psythik
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          18 hours ago

          They’re analogs but essentially the same drug from what I understand. TBH I have not done a lot of research so I’m not 100% sure.

          I have ADHD, so what I can assure you is that the effects are similar to other stims like meth and adderall, except less intense and much less tweaky. I get a nice, warm, comforting/loving feeling from the drug, and unlike other stims, I still get an appetite when I take the stuff. I don’t understand why it’s not available as a prescription cause it feels so much better,