Phenylephrine is not a sedative although some people may experience drowsiness when taking it.
Although most people who take phenylephrine do not experience sleepiness or a sedative effect.
Phenylephrine is in a class of medications called nasal decongestants.
It works by reducing swelling of the blood vessels in the nasal passages.
Phenylephrine does stimulate alpha-adrenergic receptors which may make it responsible for central nervous system stimulant effects such as restlessness, anxiety, and insomnia.
It is thought that it may not cause the effects to the extent that pseudoephedrine does, however.
Two commonly-used decongestants are pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and phenylephrine (Sudafed PE).
These medications work great to clear nasal passages and help us breathe better.
But to our bodies, they look very similar to the stimulants discussed earlier and can have the same side effects, including anxiety.
Blood pressure increased at 5 and 10 minutes after application of phenylephrine 10% (mean difference 15 mmHg; 95% CI = 12, 19) but fell to baseline after 20–30 minutes.
The heart rate increased by 5/minute (95% CI = 1, 8) at 20–30 minutes and returned to baseline after 60 minutes.
Phenylephrine and norepinephrine increase dopamine transporter ligand binding in striatum.
Mol Imaging Biol.
Phenylephrine is used for the temporary relief of congestion or stuffiness in the nose caused by hay fever or other allergies, colds, or sinus trouble.
It may also be used in ear infections to relieve congestion.
This medicine may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.