How quickly do Phenylephrine and Pseudoephedrine start to work?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Thanks for briefing me regarding the problem of concern. To understand the difference between Phenylephrine and Pseudoephedrine, you need to know about the receptors in the nasal cavity that govern congestion and decongestion.

There are two main receptors in the nasal cavity known as alpha and beta. Alpha is known to cause decongestion by constricting the blood vessels (vasoconstriction), while beta is known to cause congestion by vasodilation.

Phenylephrine specifically acts on alpha receptors causing decongestion, while Pseudoephedrine acts on both alpha and beta (more on alpha than beta), making it a non-specific decongestant. Pseudoephedrine, however, is considered more potent with its long-lasting effects, while Phenylephrine is more short-acting and less potent.

Pseudoephedrine is a precursor of Methamphetamine ( a known addictive recreational drug) and is therefore banned in most countries or is given only with a physician's prescription. At the same time, phenylephrine is available over the counter.

If you have a common cold, I would suggest you follow the below-mentioned points.

1. Steam inhalations two to three times a day for one week.

2. Take a tablet combination of Phenylephrine, Chlorpheniramine, and Paracetamol combination available under brand names such as Sinarest, Chest, Cold, etc, once in the morning and once in the evening after food for the next week

3. Stay away from dust, smoke and fumes.

4. Salt water gargles at least five to six times a day.

5. Blow out mucous from the nose frequently rather than sniffing it in.

6. If your flu lasts for more than one week to ten days, you should consider seasonal rhinitis and take appropriate treatment.

7. As far as precautions with these medications are concerned, I would not suggest you take it for one or two days rather complete the entire course as mentioned above

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.