Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

PHENYLPROPANOLAMINE - ORAL

(FEN-ill-pro-puh-NOLL-uh-meen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Accutrim, Dexatrim

Uses

Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) is used to treat nasal congestion associated with the common cold, allergies, hay fever, or other respiratory illnesses (e.g., rhinitis, sinusitis). It has also been used as a nonprescription diet-aid for weight loss.

How To Use

Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed b your doctor. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Long-acting (delayed-release) products must be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew. When used for an extended period, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing; your treatment may also be stopped or changed. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.

Side Effects

Dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, dry mouth, restlessness, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: irregular heartbeat, vision problems, rash, nervousness, increased nasal congestion. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion, chest pain, difficulty urinating. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, heart disease, high blood pressure, lung problems (e.g., asthma, emphysema), thyroid problems, diabetes, glaucoma, prostate trouble, depression, allergies (especially drug allergies). This drug may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. In rare cases, phenylpropanolamine (PPA) may increase your risk of stroke. Symptoms of stroke include one-sided weakness, sudden vision changes, or slurred speech. The FDA considers PPA to be unsafe; consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately. Also, check your prescription and nonprescription medication labels carefully, and promptly consult your pharmacist if any other medications contain PPA. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

This drug is not recommended for use with other "stimulant" drugs (e.g., amphetamine, caffeine, methylphenidate, other decongestants), MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, linezolid, selegiline). Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially of: tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline), reserpine, NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact you local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include chest tightness, severe mental/mood changes, unusually fast heartbeat (tachycardia), and seizures.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 36 and 86 degrees F (2 to 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom.