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Compare Phenylephrine vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Phenylephrine eye drops and Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief (ibuprofen/chlorpheniramine/phenylephrine) are used for different purposes and have distinct formulations. Phenylephrine eye drops are used to dilate pupils for eye exams or procedures, and may cause side effects like temporary burning, blurry vision, and increased blood pressure. In contrast, Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief is a combination of three medications: ibuprofen (a pain reliever), chlorpheniramine (an antihistamine), and phenylephrine (a decongestant). This over-the-counter medication treats symptoms of allergies and the common cold, such as runny nose, sneezing, and sinus pressure. It can cause side effects like dizziness, sleepiness, and stomach issues. Unlike phenylephrine eye drops, which can be used in children as young as 1 years old, Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief is not suitable for children under 12 years old. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your healthcare professional if using these medications is safe for you and your baby.

  • Phenylephrine eye drops
    Advil allergy and congestion relief
  • Phenylephrine eye drops
    Advil allergy and congestion relief

  • Summary of Phenylephrine vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Summary for Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Prescription only

    Phenylephrine eye drops are used to dilate (widen) pupils for eye exams or certain eye procedures. Side effects include temporary burning or stinging in the eye, blurry vision, and possibly raise your blood pressure. Let your provider know if your pregnant or breastfeeding because you might need to use a different medication.

    Summary for Antihistamine / NSAID / Decongestant

    Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief is a combination of three medications, chlorpheniramine (antihistamine), ibuprofen (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)), and phenylephrine (decongestant). It's available over the counter (OTC) and used to treat symptoms from allergies and the common cold.

  • Indications of Phenylephrine vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Indications for
    •Dilate (widen) pupils
    Indications for
    •Short-term relief of symptoms from allergies and the common cold: runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, itchy nose or throat, sneezing, nasal congestion, sinus pressure, headache, minor aches and pains, fever
    •Lowers swelling in the sinuses around the nose
    •Restores breathing through the nose

  • Pros and Cons of Phenylephrine vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Pros and Const for Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Can be used in adults and children
    •Starts working quickly (within 15 minutes)
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    Cons
    •Can cause eye pain and stinging
    •Dilating effects can last for up to 7 hours (or longer)
    •The 10% strength can raise blood pressure in people with certain heart or thyroid problems
    Pros and Const for Antihistamine / NSAID / Decongestant
    Pros
    •Can treat a wide variety of allergy and common cold symptoms
    •More convenient to take three medications in one pill
    •Available over the counter
    Cons
    •Needs to be taken every 4 hours
    •More difficult to customize the dose since Advil Allergy and Congestion Relief is a combination of three medications
    •Can cause stomach bleeding or stomach ulcers
    •Can't be used in children younger than 12 years old, right before or after heart surgery, or with current or recent (within the last 14 days) use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

  • Common Side Effects of Phenylephrine vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Common Side Effects for
    •Temporary stinging or burning in your eye
    •Temporary blurry vision
    •Sensitivity to light
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness
    •Sleepiness
    •Constipation
    •Upset stomach
    •Heartburn
    •Nausea
    •Headache
    •Dry mouth

  • Warnings of Phenylephrine vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Common Side Effects for
    •For use in the eyes only
    •Heart problems
    •High blood pressure
    •Rebound pupil constriction
    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach bleeding
    •Heart attack and stroke
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Worsening of medical conditions
    •Accidental overdose
    •Potential harm to unborn baby

  • Prices with our coupons for Phenylephrine vs. Advil Allergy and Congestion

    Learn more about Phenylephrine eye drops
    Learn more about Advil allergy and congestion relief

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