How much phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) can I take?

[How much phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) you can take](https://www.goodrx.com/sudafed-pe/dosage) per dose depends on your age, so make sure to read the manufacturer's label before you start. Typically, the adult dose is 10 mg of phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) taken by mouth every 4 hours. If you're also taking any OTC [combination cough and cold medications](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/flu/how-to-choose-the-best-cold-and-flu-medicine), make sure to read the ingredients on the label carefully. Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) can be found in these combination products, so it's important that the total dose of phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) doesn't go over what's recommended by the manufacturer.

Is phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) a stimulant?

No, phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) isn't a [stimulant](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/central-nervous-system-stimulants/stimulant-drugs). But it might cause some stimulant-like side effects, such as high blood pressure, fast heart rate, and restlessness. If you're currently taking a [stimulant medication](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/central-nervous-system-stimulants/stimulant-drugs), such as [medication for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/adhd/the-best-adhd-medication-treatment-guide-for-adults-and-children), talk with your provider before you start phenylephrine (Sudafed PE). They might recommend [home remedies](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/cold-symptoms/sinus-pain-relief), like using a [humidifier](https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/respiratory/cool-vs-warm-mist-humidifier) or [nasal saline rinses](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/sinus-infection/guide-to-using-a-neti-pot), to help with your nasal congestion in order to lower your risk of serious side effects.

Can phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) raise blood pressure?

[Yes](https://www.goodrx.com/phenylephrine-pe/sudafed-pe-side-effects#fast-heartbeat), phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) can possibly raise your blood pressure. Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) treats congestion by squeezing the blood vessels in your nose and sinuses, but it also squeezes the blood vessels throughout your body, which can raise blood pressure. Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) [isn't likely to cause blood pressure](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4500855/#Sec7title) at recommended doses. But you're more likely to experience high blood pressure if you've heart problems or are taking other [medications that can raise blood pressure](https://www.goodrx.com/drugs/side-effects/medications-that-can-raise-your-blood-pressure). If you have a history of heart problems, ask your provider if phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) is safe for you.

Can I take phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) while breastfeeding?

It's unclear how safe phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) is during breastfeeding because it [hasn't been well-studied](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501438/). [Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)](https://www.goodrx.com/pseudoephedrine/what-is) can potentially [dry up your breast milk production](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/pregnancy/low-milk-supply-medications-reduce-breast-milk-production), so it's possible phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) can as well. Talk to your provider about the risks and benefits of using phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) while breastfeeding.

How long after taking phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) can I drink alcohol?

You should wait until you're fully recovered and no longer taking phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) before you drink alcohol. While alcohol doesn't directly interact with phenylephrine (Sudafed PE), it's best to avoid drinking alcohol while you're taking this medication. If you're fighting off a cold or flu, [alcohol can weaken your immune system](https://www.goodrx.com/drugs/safety/medications-to-not-mix-with-alcohol) and make it harder for your body to recover. In addition, [research](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/nasal-congestion/decongestant-mistakes-and-effects) shows that drinking alcohol can also make your nasal congestion worse. If you've more questions about phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) and alcohol, talk with your provider.

What's the difference between phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) and pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)?

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) and [pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)](https://www.goodrx.com/pseudoephedrine/what-is) are both taken by mouth to treat congestion. But pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine are [different medications](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/alpha-agonists/sudafed-vs-sudafed-pe-whats-the-difference). While they work in similar ways to help you breathe better, most researchers agree that pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) [provides better congestion relief](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/alpha-agonists/sudafed-vs-sudafed-pe-whats-the-difference) than phenylephrine (Sudafed PE). This is likely because your body might [absorb pseudoephedrine better](https://accpjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/j.1875-9114.1993.tb02780.x). Keep in mind that you can only purchase pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) at the pharmacy counter, while you can find phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) among the over-the-counter products on the shelves at your local pharmacy. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) is a restricted medication because it has the [potential for misuse](https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/legal-requirements-sale-and-purchase-drug-products-containing-pseudoephedrine-ephedrine-and). Ask your pharmacist if you have more questions about the differences between pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and phenylephrine (Sudafed PE).

phenylephrine PE

Generic Sudafed PE

Used for Nasal Congestion

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) is a decongestant used to treat nasal and sinus congestion from allergies and the common cold. It's available over the counter as tablets and a liquid solution. Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) isn't a first-choice option for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding because there's a chance that it can affect the growing baby and the mother's milk supply. Side effects of phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) are typically mild and can include feeling anxious, headache, and nausea.

Reviewed by:

Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP

Connie Zheng, PharmD

Last reviewed on July 11, 2023

What is Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)?

What is Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) used for?

Short-term relief of nasal and sinus congestion and pressure

How Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) works

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) is a decongestant. It works by squeezing the blood vessels around your nose and sinuses, which helps to relieve congestion and pressure.

Are you looking for information on phenylephrine nasal spray (Neo-Synephrine) or pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) instead?

Drug facts

Common Brands	Sudafed PE
Drug Class	Alpha agonist
Controlled Substance Classification	Not a controlled medication
Generic Status	Lower-cost generic available
Availability	Over-the-counter

Common Brands

Sudafed PE

Drug Class

Alpha agonist

Controlled Substance Classification

Not a controlled medication

Generic Status

Lower-cost generic available

Availability

Over-the-counter

Side effects of Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)

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

Feeling anxious
Headache
Nausea

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) serious side effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.

High blood pressure or heart rate: chest pain, blurry vision, headache, fatigue

When do Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) possible side effects begin and end?

Time passed since treatment started:

MMINUTES

HHOURS

DDAYS

WWEEKS

MMONTHS

Feeling anxious

Source: DailyMed

More on Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) side effects

A person with a headache in bed, holding their face.
Kanawa_Studio/E+ via Getty Images

6 Sudafed PE Side Effects You Should Know About

Written by Brian Leonard, PharmD, BCACP, BCGP

The following Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) 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

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

Anxiety, nervousness
Headache
Trouble sleeping

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Avg retail price

$12.21(Save 12.86%)

$10.64

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Pros and cons of Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)

Pros

Available as tablets and a liquid
Available over the counter
Available as a lower-cost generic medication

Cons

Tablets can't be taken by children younger than 12 years old
Can raise blood pressure and heart rate
Needs to be taken multiple times a day

Pharmacist tips for Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)

Don't take phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) too close to bedtime because you might have a more difficulty falling asleep.
Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) can raise your blood pressure. If you have heart problems or high blood pressure, ask your provider if it's safe for you to take phenylephrine (Sudafed PE).
It's best to avoid or limit caffeine while taking phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) because this combination can raise your risk for side effects (e.g., fast heart rate, high blood pressure, difficulty sleeping).
Stop taking phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) and contact your provider if you get nervous, dizzy, sleepless, or if your symptoms don't get better within 7 days, or occur with a fever. These might be signs of a more serious medical condition.
Tell your provider or pharmacist about all the medications you're taking to make sure phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) is safe for you. Don't start any new medications while taking phenylephrine (Sudafed PE), especially other decongestants.
Don't take phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) if you're taking or have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), such as selegiline (Eldepryl) or phenelzine (Nardil), within the past 2 weeks. This combination can cause dangerous changes to your blood pressure. If you have taken an MAOI in the past 2 weeks, contact your provider for other options to treat your symptoms.

More tips for phenylephrine (Children's Sudafed PE) liquid only:

Make sure to only use a medication dose cup or syringe from the pharmacy to measure out your dose. Don't use household spoons because they aren't accurate and might cause you to take the wrong dose.
Store the liquid at room temperature in the original bottle it came in from the pharmacy.

Common questions about Phenylephrine PE

How much Phenylephrine PE you can take per dose depends on your age, so make sure to read the manufacturer's label before you start. Typically, the adult dose is 10 mg of Phenylephrine PE taken by mouth every 4 hours. If you're also taking any OTC combination cough and cold medications, make sure to read the ingredients on the label carefully. Phenylephrine PE can be found in these combination products, so it's important that the total dose of Phenylephrine PE doesn't go over what's recommended by the manufacturer.

Yes, it's possible for Phenylephrine PE to cause difficulty sleeping (insomnia) and keep you awake. If you're having trouble going or staying asleep, try to avoid taking Phenylephrine PE in the evening or too close to bedtime.

No, Phenylephrine PE isn't a stimulant. But it might cause some stimulant-like side effects, such as high blood pressure, fast heart rate, and restlessness. If you're currently taking a stimulant medication, such as medication for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), talk with your provider before you start Phenylephrine PE. They might recommend home remedies, like using a humidifier or nasal saline rinses, to help with your nasal congestion in order to lower your risk of serious side effects.

Yes, Phenylephrine PE can possibly raise your blood pressure. Phenylephrine PE treats congestion by squeezing the blood vessels in your nose and sinuses, but it also squeezes the blood vessels throughout your body, which can raise blood pressure. Phenylephrine PE isn't likely to cause blood pressure at recommended doses. But you're more likely to experience high blood pressure if you've heart problems or are taking other medications that can raise blood pressure. If you have a history of heart problems, ask your provider if Phenylephrine PE is safe for you.

If you're pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant, don't take Phenylephrine PE until you've talked to your provider first. Information about the safety of Phenylephrine PE during pregnancy is mixed. A study showed Phenylephrine PE can raise the risk of birth defects and harm your unborn baby. But another study found decongestants similar to Phenylephrine PE didn't cause birth defects. If you're experiencing nasal congestion while pregnant, your provider will likely recommend that you try home remedies, like using a humidifier, first.

It's unclear how safe Phenylephrine PE is during breastfeeding because it hasn't been well-studied. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can potentially dry up your breast milk production, so it's possible Phenylephrine PE can as well. Talk to your provider about the risks and benefits of using Phenylephrine PE while breastfeeding.

You should wait until you're fully recovered and no longer taking Phenylephrine PE before you drink alcohol. While alcohol doesn't directly interact with Phenylephrine PE, it's best to avoid drinking alcohol while you're taking this medication. If you're fighting off a cold or flu, alcohol can weaken your immune system and make it harder for your body to recover. In addition, research shows that drinking alcohol can also make your nasal congestion worse. If you've more questions about Phenylephrine PE and alcohol, talk with your provider.

Phenylephrine PE and pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) are both taken by mouth to treat congestion. But pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine are different medications. While they work in similar ways to help you breathe better, most researchers agree that pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) provides better congestion relief than Phenylephrine PE. This is likely because your body might absorb pseudoephedrine better. Keep in mind that you can only purchase pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) at the pharmacy counter, while you can find Phenylephrine PE among the over-the-counter products on the shelves at your local pharmacy. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) is a restricted medication because it has the potential for misuse. Ask your pharmacist if you have more questions about the differences between pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and Phenylephrine PE.

Risks and warnings for Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) 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.

High heart rate and blood pressure

Risk factors: Heart problems | High blood pressure

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) can raise your heart rate and blood pressure, even at recommended doses. If you have a history of heart conditions or high blood pressure, ask your provider if phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) is safe for you before taking it. If you get severe headaches, nosebleeds, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, or chest pain while taking phenylephrine (Sudafed PE), stop the medication and seek medical attention right away.

Accidental overdose

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) is a decongestant, which is in many other over-the-counter products. Taking more than one medication containing a decongestant can raise your risk for serious side effects, including high blood pressure, high heart rate, and headache. Tell your provider or pharmacist about the medications you take before starting phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) to make sure it's safe for you. Don't start any new medications while taking phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) without talking to your provider or pharmacist. To prevent an accidental overdose, read package labels carefully. If you're not sure if a product has a decongestant, ask your pharmacist. If you or your loved one experiences an accidental overdose, get medical help right away or contact a poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

Worsening of medical conditions

Risk factors: Heart problems | High blood pressure | Thyroid disease | Diabetes | Prostate problems

Don't take phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) if you have any of the risk factors listed above unless your provider said it is safe to do so. Taking phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) can worsen your condition(s) and cause serious side effects. Make sure your provider knows about all medical conditions you have or have had in the past before starting phenylephrine (Sudafed PE).

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) dosage

The average cost for 36 tablets of 10mg of Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) is $10.64 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 12.86% off the average retail price of $12.21.

Tablet

Dosage	Quantity	Price as low as	Price per unit
10mg	36 tablets	$10.64	$0.30

Typical dosage for Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) tablet
- Age 12 years and up: The typical dose is 10 mg by mouth every 4 hours. Don't take more than 60 mg in a 24-hour period.
- Age under 12 years: Ask your child's provider.
Phenylephrine (Children's Sudafed PE) liquid: Each 5 mL of solution contains 2.5 mg of phenylephrine.
- Age 6 to 11 years: The typical dose is 5 mg by mouth every 4 hours. Don't take more than 30 mg in a 24-hour period.
- Age 4 to 5 years: The typical dose is 2.5 mg by mouth every 4 hours. Don't take more than 15 mg in a 24-hour period.
- Age under 4 years of age: Do not use.

More on Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) dosage

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Sudafed PE Dosages: Your GoodRx Guide

Written by Kristine Foley, PharmD

How much does Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) cost?

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Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) (generic)

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$10.64

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Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) 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 Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) will not be safe for you to take.

Having taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) medication within the last 2 weeks

What are alternatives to Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)?

There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE). Compare a few possible alternatives below.

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)

Used for:

Short-term relief of nasal and sinus congestion and pressure

$10.64Lowest GoodRx priceView prices

Sudafed (pseudoephedrine)

Used for:

Short-term relief of nasal and sinus congestion and pressure

$6.42Lowest GoodRx priceView prices

Phenylephrine nasal spray

Used for:

Short-term relief of nasal and sinus congestion and pressure

$10.95Lowest GoodRx priceView prices

News about Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)

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How Long Can You Take Cold Medicine Like Robitussin, Delsym, and Sudafed?

Most healthcare professionals don’t recommend taking cold medicines for longer than a week since prolonged use can raise the risk of serious side effects.

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Sudafed vs. Sudafed PE: Everything You Need to Know About These Decongestants

Sudafed and Sudafed PE are used to treat nasal congestion and are available without a prescription. Learn about their active ingredients and differences.

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) images

This medicine is Red, Round Tablet Imprinted With "44 453".Red Round 44 453 - Wal-phed PE 10mg Tablet

This medicine is Red, Round Tablet Imprinted With "L7".Red Round L7 - CVS Nasal Decongestant PE 10mg Tablet

This medicine is Red, Round Tablet.red round - Foster & Thrive Nasal Decongestion Maximum Strength 10mg Tablet

References

Atkinson, H. C., et al. (2015). Potential cardiovascular adverse events when phenylephrine is combined with paracetamol: simulation and narrative review. European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology.

CVS Pharmacy. (2023). NASAL DECONGESTANT PE, NON-DROWSY- phenylephrine hcl tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed). (2018). Phenylephrine. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

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.

What is Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)?

What is Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) used for?

How Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) works

Are you looking for information on phenylephrine nasal spray (Neo-Synephrine) or pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) instead?

Drug facts

Side effects of Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)

Common Side Effects

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) serious side effects

More on Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) side effects

The following Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) side effects have also been reported

Get your GoodRx coupon

Pros and cons of Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)

Pros

Cons

Pharmacist tips for Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)

Common questions about Phenylephrine PE

How much Phenylephrine PE can I take?

Can Phenylephrine PE keep you awake?

Is Phenylephrine PE a stimulant?

Can Phenylephrine PE raise blood pressure?

Can I take Phenylephrine PE while pregnant?

Can I take Phenylephrine PE while breastfeeding?

How long after taking Phenylephrine PE can I drink alcohol?

What's the difference between Phenylephrine PE and pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)?

Risks and warnings for Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)

High heart rate and blood pressure

Accidental overdose

Worsening of medical conditions

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) dosage

Typical dosage for Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)

More on Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) dosage

How much does Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) cost?

$10.64

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) contraindications

What are alternatives to Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)?

News about Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) images

References

View All References (5)

Common questions about Phenylephrine PE

How much Phenylephrine PE can I take?

Can Phenylephrine PE keep you awake?

Is Phenylephrine PE a stimulant?

Can Phenylephrine PE raise blood pressure?

Can I take Phenylephrine PE while pregnant?

Can I take Phenylephrine PE while breastfeeding?

How long after taking Phenylephrine PE can I drink alcohol?

What's the difference between Phenylephrine PE and pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)?