A common nasal decongestant lacks evidence but is still sold in the UK
For years, the drug phenylephrine has been a popular choice for relieving nasal congestion, however, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering removing oral phenylephrine medicines from pharmacy shelves. Recent FDA findings suggest it lacks effectiveness.
Phenylephrine became widely used in cold and flu products as a safer alternative to pseudoephedrine. While pseudoephedrine is effective, it carries some misuse risks – with criminals using it to make methamphetamine. However, recent studies question whether phenylephrine is effective when taken orally.
In the UK and other countries, there is now a discussion about the ethics of continuing to sell it. So, should the UK take action?
There are pros and cons to removing phenylephrine from UK shelves. On one hand, continuing to sell a potentially ineffective product could harm public trust in over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. Consumers expect these products to be both safe and effective – not just safe – so evidence against phenylephrine may undo that trust.
As studies continue to question the effectiveness of oral phenylephrine, some experts suggest it may be time to reconsider its place in the UK. Fortunately, alternatives exist. As mentioned, pseudoephedrine is effective as a nasal decongestant, but it comes with purchase restrictions. Phenylephrine nasal sprays may also offer more direct relief.
Phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine both relieve nasal congestion by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and helps ease breathing. However, their effectiveness depends on how well the drug reaches these target tissues.
Pseudoephedrine is generally considered the more effective option, enters the bloodstream and reaches nasal tissues, acting directly on blood vessels to reduce congestion. Phenylephrine, though, is less effective when taken orally, as it is largely broken down before it can reach the nasal tissues in sufficient amounts.
When swallowed, phenylephrine is quickly broken down by the liver and gut, a process called “first-pass metabolism”, which significantly reduces the amount that reaches the bloodstream and nasal tissues.
Because little phenylephrine survives this process, it doesn’t effectively reduce swelling in the nasal blood vessels, offering limited congestion relief. Research from several studies shows little evidence that oral phenylephrine effectively relieves nasal congestion. Findings suggest it may work no better than a placebo.
Phenylephrine works better as a nasal spray, acting primarily on nasal linings with minimal absorption into the bloodstream. But prolonged use of decongestant sprays can lead to “rebound congestion”, a condition where nasal passages become increasingly congested as the effect of the spray wears off, often worsening symptoms over time.
The medication causes blood vessels in the nasal passages to become less responsive over time. This can create a cycle of dependency and congestion. To avoid this, these sprays are recommended for short-term use only.
While some products recommend limiting use to seven days, many health professionals suggest keeping it to three days to reduce the risk of rebound congestion.
Still available in the UK – for now
In the UK, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has stated that no new safety concerns have been identified with phenylephrine. However, the agency continues to monitor its safety and effectiveness.
While it is unclear if the MHRA will conduct a formal review, such a move would align with evidence-based standards and help protect consumer trust.
With phenylephrine’s effectiveness now in question, consumers might consider other options. Alternatives like pseudoephedrine and nasal sprays for short-term use can offer reliable relief.
Hisham Al-Obaidi does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.