SUDAFED® Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

PE is an abbreviation for the medicine  phenylephrine , the active ingredient in SUDAFED PE®, an over the counter product.

Phenylephrine is a nasal decongestant that works by narrowing the blood vessels in the nose that are expanded during the common cold or allergies. When the blood vessels in the nose and sinuses narrow, the tissue shrinks and allows the normal flow of air and mucus. This results in a temporary relief of nasal congestion, sinus congestion, and sinus pressure.

Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that relieves sinus or nasal congestion. It works by narrowing the blood vessels in the nose that are swollen during the common cold, allergies, or flu. When the blood vessels narrow, the tissue shrinks and allows the normal flow of air and mucus. This results in a temporary relief of nasal congestion, sinus congestion, and sinus pressure.**

Due to the illicit use of pseudoephedrine to make methamphetamine, the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005 added additional requirements for consumers to access pseudoephedrine which include requirement to show identification and provide additional personal information. Additionally, as a part of this act, medicines containing pseudoephedrine must be kept behind the pharmacy counter and there are restrictions on the amount of pseudoephedrine that can be purchased which vary by state. These requirements are to help deter the illicit users. See Regulations.

The active ingredients in these products work on blood vessels in the nose. Because of this mechanism, it is important that you talk to your doctor if you have high blood pressure or heart disease to determine the best treatment option for you. Your doctor has the most knowledge on your high blood pressure or heart disease and is the best equipped to help determine how to treat your symptoms.

Always read and follow the entire product label before taking any medicine as it contains important information about any warnings about product usage information including warning and any potential medicine interaction information. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other prescription medicines, dietary supplements, or taking any nonprescription medicines before taking these products.

Our SUDAFED® products are made with effective ingredients that are safe when used as directed. Human embryonic cells (fetal cells) are not involved in the production of these products.