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Compare Phenylephrine vs. Advil Cold and Sinus

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

Key takeaways

Phenylephrine eye drops and Advil Cold and Sinus (ibuprofen/pseudoephedrine) are used for different purposes and have distinct characteristics. Phenylephrine eye drops are used to dilate your pupils for eye exams or procedures. Advil Cold and Sinus combines an NSAID (ibuprofen) and a decongestant (pseudoephedrine) to relieve symptoms of the common cold or flu, such as headaches, body aches, and nasal congestion. Phenylephrine eye drops are available by prescription only and can cause side effects like temporary eye stinging and blurry vision. In contrast, Advil Cold and Sinus is available over-the-counter but must be purchased from behind the pharmacy counter because it contains pseudoephedrine. Advil Cold and Sinus can cause side effects like stomach upset and difficulty sleeping. Phenylephrine eye drops are used in both adults and children, while Advil Cold and Sinus is only for those 12 years and older.

  • Phenylephrine eye drops
    Advil cold and sinus (ibuprofen / pseudoephedrine)
  • Phenylephrine eye drops
    Advil cold and sinus (ibuprofen / pseudoephedrine)

  • Summary of Phenylephrine vs. Advil Cold and Sinus

    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 NSAID / Decongestant

    Advil Cold and Sinus contains ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and pseudoephedrine, a decongestant. It's for adults and children ages 12 years and older to treat common cold or flu symptoms, like headaches, body aches, and nasal congestion. Advil Cold and Sinus (ibuprofen / pseudoephedrine) is taken by mouth every 4-6 hours. This medication is available without a prescription in most states, but you'll have to purchase it from behind the pharmacy counter because it contains pseudoephedrine. It's non-drowsy, but can cause side effects like difficulty sleeping and nausea.

  • Indications of Phenylephrine vs. Advil Cold and Sinus

    Indications for
    •Dilate (widen) pupils
    Indications for

    Short-term relief of symptoms from the common cold or flu:

    •Headache
    •Fever
    •Sinus pressure
    •Stuffy nose
    •Minor body aches and pains

  • Pros and Cons of Phenylephrine vs. Advil Cold and Sinus

    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 NSAID / Decongestant
    Pros
    •Treats pain and congestion with one pill
    •No prescription needed (in most states)
    •Available as lower-cost generics
    Cons
    •Needs to be taken every 4 to 6 hours
    •Raises risk of stomach ulcers
    •Not for children younger than 12 years old

  • Common Side Effects of Phenylephrine vs. Advil Cold and Sinus

    Common Side Effects for
    •Temporary stinging or burning in your eye
    •Temporary blurry vision
    •Sensitivity to light
    Common Side Effects for
    •Nervousness
    •Difficulty sleeping
    •Stomach upset
    •Heartburn
    •Nausea
    •Skin rashes

  • Warnings of Phenylephrine vs. Advil Cold and Sinus

    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
    •Worsening of medical conditions
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Potential harm to unborn baby

  • Prices with our coupons for Phenylephrine vs. Advil Cold and Sinus

    Learn more about Phenylephrine eye drops
    Learn more about Advil cold and sinus

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