Conclusion
Sympathomimetic amines such as ephedrine, pseudoephedrine and phenylpropanolamine all carry the risk of hypertension. As far as ingredients in oral nasal decongestants, at this time it appears that PPA is more dangerous than pseudoephedrine. Both should be avoided in patients with existing hypertension and heart disease. Products formulated without a decongestant (e.g., Coricidin HBP, Chlor-Trimeton, Benadryl, Tavist-1) are safe for patients with hypertension. Further, until all of the risk factors for hypertension and hemorrhagic stroke are fully elucidated, it would be prudent to recommend against use of PPA as an oral nasal decongestant for anyone.
US Pharmacist. 2000;25(2) © 2000 Jobson Publishing
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