GENERIC NAME: PHENYLPROPANOLAMINE - ORAL (FEN-ill-pro-puh-NOLL-uh-meen)
BRAND NAME(S): Accutrim, Dexatrim
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) is used to treat nasal congestion associated with the common cold, allergies, hay fever, or other respiratory illnesses (e.g., rhinitis, sinusitis). It has also been used as a nonprescription diet-aid for weight loss.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Long-acting (delayed-release) products must be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew. When used for an extended period, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing; your treatment may also be stopped or changed. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, dry mouth, restlessness, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: irregular heartbeat, vision problems, rash, nervousness, increased nasal congestion. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion, chest pain, difficulty urinating. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, heart disease, high blood pressure, lung problems (e.g., asthma, emphysema), thyroid problems, diabetes, glaucoma, prostate trouble, depression, allergies (especially drug allergies). This drug may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: This drug is not recommended for use with other "stimulant" drugs (e.g., amphetamine, caffeine, methylphenidate, other decongestants), MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, linezolid, selegiline). Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially of: tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline), reserpine, NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact you local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include chest tightness, severe mental/mood changes, unusually fast heartbeat (tachycardia), and seizures.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 36 and 86 degrees F (2 to 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom.
SLIDESHOW
The Best Diet Tips: How to Lose Weight the Healthy Way See SlideshowRelated Disease Conditions
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Chronic Rhinitis and Post-Nasal Drip
Chronic rhinitis (non allergic rhinitis) causes runny nose, sneezing, nasal itching and congestion. Post-nasal drip is drainage of mucus from the sinuses into the throat. Treatment includes over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
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Common Cold
The common cold (viral upper respiratory tract infection) is a contagious illness that may be caused by various viruses. Symptoms include a stuffy nose, headache, cough, sore throat, and maybe a fever. Antibiotics have no effect upon the common cold, and there is no evidence that zinc and vitamin C are effective treatments.
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Obesity and Overweight
Get the facts on obesity and being overweight, including the health risks, causes, reviews of weight-loss diet plans, BMI chart, symptoms, causes, surgical and nonsurgical treatments, and medications.
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Hay Fever (Allergic Rhinitis)
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is an irritation of the nose caused by pollen and is associated with the following allergic symptoms: nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, eye and nose itching, and tearing eyes. Avoidance of known allergens is the recommended treatment, but if this is not possible, antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays may help alleviate symptoms.
Treatment & Diagnosis
Prevention & Wellness
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.