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Phenylephrine vs. Dimetapp

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

phenylephrine eye drops

 

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Brompheniramine/phenylephrine

 

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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 Dimetapp

Over-the-counter

Brompheniramine/phenylephrine is a combination medication that helps to temporarily relieve symptoms of cold and allergies, such as watery eyes, stuffy nose, and itchy throat. It's taken by mouth and available in both a liquid and a tablet form, and as lower-cost generic medications.

Indications for Dimetapp

Short-term relief of symptoms from allergies and the common cold:

  • Nasal congestion
  • Runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Itching of the nose or throat
  • Itchy or watery eyes

Pros and Cons for Dimetapp

Pros

  • Combines two medications into one product for convenience
  • Can treat multiple allergy and common cold symptoms
  • Available over the counter without a prescription

Cons

  • Might need to take multiple times a day to relieve symptoms
  • More difficult to customize the dose since it's a fixed combination
  • Might not be a good choice for people over 65 years old or people with glaucoma, breathing problems, stomach problems, or urinary problems

Common Side Effects for Dimetapp

  • Dizziness
  • Sleepiness
  • Constipation
  • Dry mouth

Warnings for Dimetapp

  • Worsening of medical conditions
  • Accidental overdose

Prices with our coupons for Phenylephrine vs. Dimetapp

Price Card Drug Icon
Phenylephrine1 eye dropper / 2ml of 2.5%
$21.67$40.99
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Price Card Drug Icon
Brompheniramine/Phenylephrine1 bottle / 118ml of 2mg/5mg/10ml
$10.67-
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