Common Questions about Pseudoephedrine

Is pseudoephedrine an antihistamine?

No, pseudoephedrine is not an antihistamine. It is a nasal decongestant. However, combination products containing pseudoephedrine and antihistamines are available to effectively treat allergy symptoms, for example, Clarinex-D, which contains desloratadine (an antihistamine) and pseudoephedrine (a nasal decongestant).

Is pseudoephedrine good for a runny nose?

Pseudoephedrine is a nasal decongestant and works best for a stuffy nose and sinus congestion and pressure. An antihistamine may be a better choice if your main symptom is a runny nose.

How quickly does pseudoephedrine start to work?

Pseudoephedrine starts to work within 15-30 minutes. You should start to feel considerably better 30-60 minutes after taking a dose. The effects of the regular tablets and liquid last for 4-6 hours, and the extended-release tablets last for 12-24 hours.

Is Sudafed and Sudafed PE the same thing?

No, Sudafed and Sudafed PE are different medications. The active ingredient in Sudafed is pseudoephedrine, while the active ingredient in Sudafed PE is phenylephrine. Pseudoephedrine typically provides better nasal congestion relief, while phenylephrine might work better for sinus relief. Another difference is that pseudoephedrine is sold at the pharmacy counter, while phenylephrine can be bought off the shelf.

Can I take pseudoephedrine and Mucinex together?

You should read the labels carefully before taking pseudoephedrine with any other over-the-counter cough and cold remedies, including Mucinex. Different Mucinex products contain different active ingredients, such as acetaminophen, phenylephrine, dextromethorphan, and pseudoephedrine. Taking multiple products that contain pseudoephedrine can result in an overdose.

What is the price of pseudoephedrine without insurance?

Without insurance, pseudoephedrine can be as high as $15.59, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $5.72 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.

What is the price of pseudoephedrine with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on pseudoephedrine—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for pseudoephedrine. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.