Pseudoephedrine Uses

Pseudoephedrine HCl is used to get nasal and sinus relief from symptoms such as stuffy nose, nasal congestion, sinus pressure, sinus congestion, and head congestion caused by the common cold or allergies.

There may be other uses of pseudoephedrine—your pharmacist or doctor can give you further drug information.

Pseudoephedrine Mechanism of Action

Pseudoephedrine works by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages. This results in a shrinkage of the swollen nasal mucosa and relief from nasal congestion.

Pseudoephedrine Doses

Pseudoephedrine comes as immediate-release tablets (30 mg and 60 mg), extended-release tablets (120 mg and 240 mg), and a liquid (15 mg/5 mL). The usual dose is as follows:

• Immediate-release tablets: Adults and children over 12 years of age should take two 30-mg tablets every 4-6 hours. The maximum dose is 8 tablets in 24 hours. Children 6-11 years of age should take one 30-mg tablet every 4-6 hours with no more than 4 tablets in 24 hours.
• Liquid: Children 6-11 years of age should take two teaspoons every 4-6 hours. Children 4-5 years of age should take one teaspoon every 4-6 hours. The maximum is 4 doses in 24 hours. 
• Extended-release tablets: Adults and children 12 years of age and older should take one 240-mg tablet every 24 hours or one 120-mg tablet every 12 hours.