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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

 

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Advil Cold and Sinus

(ibuprofen / pseudoephedrine)

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Summary for Phenylephrine

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.

Indications for Phenylephrine

  • Dilate (widen) pupils

Pros and Cons for Phenylephrine

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

Common Side Effects for Phenylephrine

  • Temporary stinging or burning in your eye
  • Temporary blurry vision
  • Sensitivity to light

Warnings for Phenylephrine

  • For use in the eyes only
  • Heart problems
  • High blood pressure
  • Rebound pupil constriction

Summary for Advil Cold and Sinus

Over-the-counter

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 for Advil Cold and Sinus

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 for Advil Cold and Sinus

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 for Advil Cold and Sinus

  • Nervousness
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Stomach upset
  • Heartburn
  • Nausea
  • Skin rashes

Warnings for Advil Cold and Sinus

  • 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

Price Card Drug Icon
Phenylephrine1 eye dropper / 2ml of 2.5%
$21.67$40.99
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Price Card Drug Icon
Ibuprofen/Pseudoephedrine30 tablets / 200mg/30mg
$5.84$5.84
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