Pseudoephedrine vs Phenylephrine: What’s the Difference?

Dealing with sinus congestion can be frustrating. The stuffy nose. The pressure. The headache. Fortunately, SUDAFED® has a number of products that can relieve this pain and misery. Some have the active ingredient phenylephrine, like SUDAFED PE® Sinus Congestion.

Others feature the active ingredient pseudoephedrine, like SUDAFED® Sinus Congestion. Read on to learn more about what these two active ingredients are, what they have in common, and what makes them different.

How Are They Similar?

Both phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine can provide short-term relief for sinus pressure and congestion. SUDAFED® offers both in tablet form for ages 12 and up and liquid form for children 4 years of age and over.

How Do They Differ?

Phenylephrine

SUDAFED® products with phenylephrine are available for over-the-counter purchase without restrictions^[1]. SUDAFED® products containing PE are dosed to be taken every four hours for quick relief.

Pseudoephedrine

Our products that feature pseudoephedrine can be used for quick relief and also come in extended-release forms, for up to 24 hours of relief^[2]. Typically, products that have pseudoephedrine as an active ingredient face restrictions. This means that there are limits on the amount of pseudoephedrine that can be purchased at one time and within a month. Purchasers will typically need to present a valid photo ID in order to purchase these products, and the pharmacy is required to record these purchases for up to two years^[3].

How Do They Work?

Both pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine work as decongestants by shrinking the dilated blood vessels in the nose, relieving nasal and sinus congestion^[4][5]. Both ingredients are effective as decongestants. However, pseudoephedrine can also be found in long-acting 12- and 24-hour extended-release tablets^[6].

Why the Restrictions on Pseudoephedrine?

These restrictions went into effect with the passage of the Combat Methamphetamine Act. While pseudoephedrine is not addictive^[1] when used as directed, it can be used in the production of methamphetamine, a powerful and highly addictive stimulant^[3]. While regulations and need for a prescription can vary from state to state, products with pseudoephedrine are typically kept behind the counter at the pharmacy and are available for purchase there^[3].

The Difference of SUDAFED® Phenylephrine and Pseudoephedrine pro

SUDAFED® PE	SUDAFED®
Active Ingredient:
Phenylephrine	Pseudoephedrine
Indication:
Relief of sinus or nasal congestion and pressure
Duration:
Short Term Relief	Extended Relief, 12 and 24 hour relief products available
Are there special requirements for purchase?
No	Yes, you may have to purchase at the pharmacy or service counter
What form(s) does it come in?
Oral tablet* Oral liquid for children*	Oral tablet* Oral extended-release (long-acting) tablets, 12-hour and 24-hour forms Oral liquid for children*
How often does the oral tablet need to be taken?
1 tablet every 4 hours	SUDAFED® Sinus Congestion: 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours Extended-Release Forms: SUDAFED® Sinus Congestion 12 Hour and SUDAFED® Sinus Congestion + Pain 12 Hour: 1 tablet every 12 hours SUDAFED® Sinus Congestion 24 Hour: 1 tablet every 24 hours
Is it safe for children when used as directed?
Yes, children’s products are available. Please refer to the drug facts label for dosing information

*Use products only as directed. Refer to drug facts label for dosing information

Sinus Congestion vs. Head Congestion

When you're congested, it can sometimes be confusing as to what’s causing it. Is it sinus congestion or a cold? Explore the differences between the two so you can get relief quickly.

Compare SUDAFED® Head & Sinus Congestion Products

Find out which SUDAFED® product is best to relieve your sinus or head congestion by comparing the symptoms they help treat, how long they last, and what active ingredients are included in each formula.

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