Drug Information Table

Sympathomimetics phenylephrine (Neo-Synephrine)

Therapeutic Use
Allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, and
the common cold

Side/Adverse Effects

Administration
Do not exceed the
recommended dose.
Use topical decongestants no
longer than 3 to 5 days to avoid
rebound congestion.
Interventions

Patient Instructions

CNS stimulation with oral

agents (agitation, anxiety,
insomnia)
Increased blood pressure
Tachycardia/palpitations

Monitor for agitation, anxiety,

and insomnia
Administer a mild hypnotic or
sleep aid
Monitor blood pressure and
heart rate

Notify provider of excessive

symptoms of CNS stimulation.
Consult provider regarding
alternative therapy or
withdrawal of drug

Overdosage or systemic
absorption hypertension,
tachycardia, and heart
palpitations

Monitor heart rate and blood

pressure.

Report prolonged tachycardia

or heart palpitations
Have blood pressure checked
while on medication if
previously diagnosed with
hypertension

Rebound congestion with

prolonged use of topical
agents)

Administer only when needed.

Recommend a nasal
glucocorticoid to minimize
symptoms while discontinuing
phenylephrine after prolonged
use.

Do not use for more than 3 to 5

days.
Taper and discontinue the drug
using one nostril at a time.

Contraindications
Chronic rhinitis
Narrow angle glaucoma
Uncontrolled heart disease,
dysrhythmia, or hypertension

Precautions
Coronary artery disease
Hypertension
Older adults

Interactions
MAOI antidepressants
potentiate the effects do not
use within 3 weeks of each
other.
Beta2-adrenergic agonists and
other stimulants potentiate
hypertensive effects of drug.