From CNBC: 2024-11-07 11:28:46

The FDA has proposed ending the use of oral phenylephrine in over-the-counter cold and allergy medications due to ineffectiveness in relieving nasal congestion. Companies can still market these products for now, but a final decision would force pharmacies to clear shelves of hundreds of products containing the ingredient, impacting sales at stores like CVS and Walgreens.

Oral phenylephrine, found in popular drugs like NyQuil and Sudafed, may be reformulated if the FDA’s proposed order is finalized. The ingredient, thought to relieve congestion by reducing blood vessel swelling, is not effective, according to the FDA. Patients may seek out spray versions or drugs with different ingredients, unaffected by the decision.

Researchers at the University of Florida petitioned the FDA to remove phenylephrine products from the market based on studies showing ineffectiveness. FDA staff concluded that oral formulations of phenylephrine do not work effectively in relieving congestion, prompting the proposed order to remove the ingredient from over-the-counter drugs.



Read more at CNBC: FDA proposes ending use of decongestant found in many cold medicines