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Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) is used to treat nasal congestion associated with the common cold, allergies, hay fever, or other respiratory illnesses (e.g., rhinitis, sinusitis). It has also been used as a nonprescription diet-aid for weight loss.Do not use this medication in children younger than 2 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all of the doctor's dosage directions. Do not give other cough and cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask your doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (e.g., saline nose drops/spray, using a humidifier or infant nasal suction bulb).
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| Overview |
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How To Use |
Side Effects |
Precautions |
Missed Dose |
Drug Interactions |
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Unitrol
Uses
Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) is used to treat nasal congestion associated with the common cold, allergies, hay fever, or other respiratory illnesses (e.g., rhinitis, sinusitis). It has also been used as a nonprescription diet-aid for weight loss.Do not use this medication in children younger than 2 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all of the doctor's dosage directions. Do not give other cough and cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask your doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (e.g., saline nose drops/spray, using a humidifier or infant nasal suction bulb).
Notes
- Do not share this medication with others.Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.
Storage
- Store at room temperature between 36 and 86 degrees F (2 to 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
- Do not store in the bathroom.
Overdose
- Symptoms of overdose may include chest tightness, severe mental/mood changes, unusually fast heartbeat (tachycardia), and seizures.
How To Use
- Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed.The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.Long-acting (delayed-release) products must be swallowed whole.
- Do not crush or chew.When used for an extended period, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing; your treatment may also be stopped or changed.
- Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.
Side Effects
- Dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, dry mouth, restlessness, or trouble sleeping may occur.
- If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor.To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.
- Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: irregular heartbeat, vision problems, rash, nervousness, increased nasal congestion.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, confusion, chest pain, difficulty urinating.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes.If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, heart disease, high blood pressure, lung problems (e.g., asthma, emphysema), thyroid problems, diabetes, glaucoma, prostate trouble, depression, allergies (especially drug allergies).This drug may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery.
- Limit alcoholic beverages.This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
- Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant.
- Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Missed Dose
- If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember.
- If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
- Do not double the dose to catch up.
Drug Interactions
- This drug is not recommended for use with other "stimulant" drugs (e.g., amphetamine, caffeine, methylphenidate, other decongestants), MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, linezolid, selegiline).
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially of: tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline), reserpine, NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen).Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
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