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pseudoephedrine / triprolidine

Generic Aprodine
Used for Nasal Congestion, Allergic Rhinitis, Cold Symptoms
Used for Nasal Congestion, Allergic Rhinitis, Cold Symptoms

Aprodine is a combination product that has two medications: pseudoephedrine (a decongestant) and triprolidine (an antihistamine). It's used to relieve common cold and allergy symptoms for people 12 years and older. Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) comes as a tablet that's taken by mouth every 4 to 6 hours. This medication is available over the counter, but you'll have to go to the pharmacy counter to purchase it. Possible side effects include dizziness, dry mouth, and keeping you awake or making you sleepy.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
Last reviewed on May 5, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageCostContraindicationsAlternativesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine)?

What is Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) used for?

Short-term relief of symptoms due to the common cold or hay fever (allergies):

  • Runny nose

  • Sneezing

  • Stuffy nose

  • Itching of the nose or throat

  • Itchy or watery eyes

How Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) works

Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) is a combination of two medications that work together to relieve symptoms caused by the common cold or allergies.

Are you looking for information on triprolidine (Histex) or pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsAprodine
Drug ClassDecongestant / Antihistamine
Controlled Substance ClassificationControlled in some states. See FAQs below.
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityOver-the-counter
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Other Side Effects

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Excessive sleepiness or dizziness
  • Accidentally taking too much medication: flushed skin, vision changes, seizures, confusion, hallucinations, loss of consciousness

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Heart palpitations—rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
  • Increase in blood pressure
  • Sudden eye pain or change in vision such as blurry vision, seeing halos around lights, vision loss
  • Trouble passing urine

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine)

thumbs-up

Pros

Starts working within 30 minutes to an hour

Can treat a wide variety of common cold or allergy symptoms

Conveniently combines two medications in each dose

Available over the counter as a lower-cost generic

thumbs-down

Cons

Might need to take up to every 4 to 6 hours for continued symptom relief

Not the best choice for people over 65 years old or people with certain medical conditions

Some states have certain restrictions on how to purchase the medication

Only available as a tablet

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine)

pharmacist

  • You can take Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) with or without food. Try taking the medication with food if it upsets your stomach to lessen this side effect.

    • You can take Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) as needed for cold and allergy symptoms (that is, only when you need symptom relief). Taking the medication on a scheduled basis according to the package instructions while you're having symptoms can help you get the most relief. Don't take more than 4 tablets in a 24-hour period.

      • Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) can make you sleepy or dizzy. Don't drive until you know how the medication affects you.

        • Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) can make some people have trouble sleeping. See how the medication affects you first before deciding whether to take it close to bedtime.

          • It's possible for children who take Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) to become overly excited or energetic. Speak to a pediatrician if this happens to your child.

            • Stop using Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) and contact a healthcare professional (HCP) if your symptoms don't get better within 7 days of starting the medication. You might need to get examined to check for other serious issues.

              • Also stop taking Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) and call an HCP if you get nervous or dizzy, if you can't sleep, if you develop a fever, or if you start having any new symptoms. These might be signs of a more serious medical condition that need other treatment.

                • Don't start any new medications — especially other antihistamines, decongestants, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) — while you're taking Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) without talking to an HCP or pharmacist first. Taking certain medications with Aprodine can raise your risk for serious side effects, like daytime sleepiness, dizziness, and changes in blood pressure.

                  faqs

                  Frequently asked questions about Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine)

                  How long before Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) starts working?
                  You should start to feel some symptom relief within 30 minutes to an hour after you take Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine). Wait about 4 to 6 hours before you take another Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) tablet to help with symptoms you're still having. Be sure you don't take more than 4 tablets in a 24-hour period.
                  Where can I buy Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine)?
                  Ask the pharmacist at your local pharmacy whether they carry Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine). This medication might be stored behind the pharmacy counter. You won’t need a prescription for it in most areas, but you’ll need to show photo identification and sign when you buy the medication. Ask your pharmacist where to find PSE in the pharmacy. There are several other similar combination products available over the counter if you're having trouble finding Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine).
                  Is Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) a controlled substance?
                  Most states don't consider Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) a controlled substance, but there might be certain states that do and have put strict regulations on the medication. This is because Aprodine contains pseudoephedrine, which is a medication that has the potential to be misused. Note that state laws change from time to time. So, it's best to ask your primary care provider or pharmacist whether Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) is a controlled substance in your state and how to take the medication in a safe way.
                  Does Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) make you sleepy?
                  Yes, it's possible to feel drowsy after you take Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine). This is because it contains the antihistamine triprolidine, which can cause drowsiness. Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) also contains pseudoephedrine, a decongestant that can have the opposite effect and keep you awake. Pay attention to how Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) affects your sleep. Contact your primary care provider to discuss better options for you if this medication is making you too sleepy or interrupting your sleep and affecting your daily activities.
                  Is it safe to drink alcohol while I'm taking Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine)?
                  It's recommended that you avoid drinking alcohol while you're taking Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine). Alcohol and Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) together can make side effects like sleepiness and dizziness more intense and put you at risk for accidents. Speak with your primary care provider about your drinking habits and about avoiding alcohol while you're taking Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine).
                  What medications should I not take with Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine)?
                  Avoid taking medications that have a decongestant (e.g., pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine) or antihistamine in it. Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) already contains both a decongestant and antihistamine. Taking too much decongestant can lead to serious side effects like a racing heart and chest pain. And taking too much antihistamine can cause behavioral changes, confusion, and poor balance. Additionally, don't take Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) if you're taking or have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), such as selegiline or phenelzine (Nardil), within the past 2 weeks. Taking an MAOI with Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) can cause dangerous changes to your blood pressure.
                  Is Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) safe to take during pregnancy?
                  Don't take Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) until you've talked to your primary care provider or pharmacist first if you're pregnant. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends avoiding pseudoephedrine, an ingredient in Aprodine, for the first 3 months of pregnancy. This is because it's been linked to a small risk of birth defects. Your primary care provider or pharmacist can discuss the risks and benefits of using Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) during pregnancy. They can guide you to safe options to relieve your cold or allergy symptoms.
                  Can I take Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) if I'm breastfeeding?
                  Don't take Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) until you've talked to your primary care provider first if you're breastfeeding. Occasionally taking triprolidine, an ingredient in Aprodine, appears to be safe while breastfeeding. Pseudoephedrine, the other ingredient in Aprodine, can potentially lower your milk supply and make your breastfed baby irritable. Your primary care provider can discuss the risks and benefits of using Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) while breastfeeding.
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                  What are the risks and warnings for Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine)?

                  Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                  risk-warning

                  Sleepiness

                  • Risk factors: Drinking alcohol while you're taking Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) | Taking other medications that cause sleepiness | Age 65 or older

                    Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) can make you sleepy, which can affect your ability to focus, think, or react. This side effect is more likely to happen or be more intense if you're over 65 years old, drink alcohol while taking this medication, or take other medications that also cause sleepiness (e.g., opioids, certain anxiety medications, sleep medications). Don't drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.

                    risk-warning

                    Worsening of certain medical conditions

                    • Risk factors: Heart problem | High blood pressure | Thyroid problem | High blood sugar (diabetes) | Glaucoma | Breathing problem (e.g., emphysema, long-term bronchitis) | Urinary condition

                      Talk with your primary care provider or pharmacist first before you use Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) if you have other medical conditions. They can make sure this medication is safe and appropriate for you to take.

                      People who are 65 years of age or older might feel side effects from Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) more intensely. In addition, this medication might worsen certain medical conditions, like high blood pressure, thyroid problems, diabetes, glaucoma, and breathing problems.

                      risk-warning

                      Accidentally taking too much medication

                      Aprodine contains a decongestant (pseudoephedrine) and an antihistamine (triprolidine). These ingredients can be found in many other over-the-counter products.

                      The risk of taking too much medication is higher if you use more than one product that contains a decongestant or antihistamine (including products used on the skin). This can be dangerous and lead to serious side effects, including high blood pressure, daytime sleepiness, dizziness, or hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't real).

                      Ask your primary care provider or pharmacist if you're not sure whether you're taking a medication that has the same or similar ingredients as Aprodine. Tell your primary care provider or pharmacist about the medications you take or plan to take to make sure they're safe for you. Get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away if you think you or a loved one accidentally took too much medication.

                      dosage

                      Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) dosage forms

                      The average cost for 30 tablets of 60mg/2.5mg of Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) is $3.60 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 57.03% off the average retail price of $8.38.
                      tablet
                      Tablet
                      DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                      60mg/2.5mg30 tablets$3.60$0.12

                      Typical dosing for Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine)

                      Each tablet contains 60 mg of pseudoephedrine and 2.5 mg of triprolidine.

                      • Age 12 years or older: The typical dose is 1 tablet by mouth every 4 to 6 hours when you have symptoms. Don't take more than 4 tablets in a 24-hour period.

                      • Age under 12 years: Ask your child's pediatrician.

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                      How much does Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) cost?

                      To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                      Aprodine (brand)
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                      contraindications-icon

                      Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) contraindications

                      Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine) will not be safe for you to take.

                      • Currently taking or have taken an MAOI in the last 2 weeks

                      alternatives

                      What are alternatives to Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine)?

                      There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                      Aprodine (pseudoephedrine / triprolidine)
                      Used for:

                      Short-term relief of symptoms due to the common cold or hay fever (allergies):

                      • Runny nose

                      • Sneezing

                      • Stuffy nose

                      • Itching of the nose or throat

                      • Itchy or watery eyes

                      $3.60 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                      Chlorpheniramine/phenylephrine
                      Used for:

                      • Runny nose

                      • Sneezing

                      • Itchy or watery eyes

                      • Itchy nose or throat

                      • Stuffy nose

                      • Sinus congestion and pressure

                      $21.68 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                      Alahist PE (dexbrompheniramine / phenylephrine)
                      Used for:

                      • Runny nose

                      • Sneezing

                      • Itchy nose or throat

                      • Itchy, watery eyes

                      • Stuffy nose (nasal congestion)

                      $23.83 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

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                      References

                      Best studies we found

                      American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2021). What medicine can I take for allergies while I’m pregnant?

                      Borowy, C. S., et al. (2023). Antihistamine toxicity. StatPearls.

                      Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). (2021). Triprolidine. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

                      View All References (5)

                      Hanlon, J. T., et al. (2015). Alternative medications for medications in the use of high-risk medications in the elderly and potentially harmful drug-disease interactions in the elderly quality measures. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

                      Hoeft, D. (2014). An overview of clinically significant drug interactions between medications used to treat psychiatric and medical conditions. Mental Health Clinician.

                      Johnson, D. A., et al. (1993). The pharmacology of α-adrenergic decongestants. Pharmacotherapy.

                      Major Pharmaceuticals. (2024). Aprodine- pseudoephedrine hcl tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

                      U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2024). Legal requirements for the sale and purchase of drug products containing pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, and phenylpropanolamine.

                      GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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