Sudafed
(Pseudoephedrine)
Clears your sinuses.
Our bottom line
Sudafed (Pseudoephedrine) relieves stuffy nose, but it could keep you up at night. Don't forget your photo ID or you won't be able to buy it in the drugstore.
- Drug class: Respiratory
- Rx status: Prescription or OTC
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (pseudoephedrine)
Upsides
- One of the best over-the-counter options to clear stuffy nose and help you breathe better.
- Clears nasal congestion better than other decongestants like phenylephrine.
- Can be helpful in relieving congestion-related headaches and pressure in your ears.
- Available in regular and extended release forms.
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What to expect from Sudafed, on one page
Download Fact Sheet
1740Downsides
- Pseudoephedrine (a decongestant) can make your heart race or make you feel anxious and restless.
- It can affect the quality of your sleep, so you can't take it too close to going to bed.
- Can raise blood pressure so check with your doctor before using it if you have high blood pressure or other heart conditions.
- Sudafed (Pseudoephedrine) isn't as effective after using it for more than 4 days straight.
- Need to show a photo ID to buy it in the drugstore and there is a limit on how much you can buy each visit.
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What to expect from Sudafed, on one page
Download Fact SheetSudafed (Pseudoephedrine) is a decongestant. It narrows blood vessels and reduces swelling in your nasal passages to make breathing easier.
- Drug class: Respiratory
- Rx status: Prescription or OTC
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (pseudoephedrine)
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Extended release
- Liquid
What to expect when you take Sudafed (Pseudoephedrine) for Nasal decongestant
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Full effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- Nervousness
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Fast heartbeat
- High blood pressure
- Hallucinations
Side effect rates for Sudafed (Pseudoephedrine)
Risks and Warnings for Sudafed (Pseudoephedrine)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.- Higher risk if:
- › History of high blood pressure
Sudafed (Pseudoephedrine) works by narrowing blood vessels. It can cause or worsen high blood pressure. If you feel dizzy or have a headache that won't go away, Sudafed (Pseudoephedrine) might not be the best option for you.
Common concerns from people taking Sudafed (Pseudoephedrine)
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?The FDA hasn’t classified this medicine’s effects on unborn babies. Talk with your doctor about this medicine if you’re pregnant or planning on it.
Tip: Always talk with your doctor before you take any medication while pregnant.- It can affect the quality of your sleep, so you can't take it too close to going to bed.