What is phenylephrine (nasal spray) used for? 

Phenylephrine is a medication which is called a “vasoconstrictor”. When phenylephrine is used as nasal spray, it can act to temporarily reduce congestion. 

Phenylephrine nasal spray concentrations 

Please note that there are different concentrations of phenylephrine nasal spray. The age of your child determines which concentration of phenylephrine nasal spray you should use:

• Age: 2 to less than 6 years old

  • Phenylephrine nasal spray 0.125% 

• Age: 6 to 12 years old 

  • Phenylephrine nasal spray 0.25%

• Age: 12 years old and up 

  • Phenylephrine nasal spray 0.25% to 1%

Is there a difference between the nasal spray and the oral formulations? 

Yes! The oral formulation can also be bought over the counter, but recent evidence released by the FDA has stated that oral phenylephrine is not effective. The nasal spray formulation is concentrated in the nose and can be used to provide temporary congestion relief. 

• https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-clarifies-results-recent-advisory-committee-meeting-oral-phenylephrine

What's the difference between oxymetazoline (Afrin) nasal spray and phenylephrine nasal spray?

Oxymetazoline (Afrin) nasal spray is approved for children greater than or equal to 6 years of age. Phenylephrine nasal spray can be used in children 2 years of age and greater. Phenylephrine can be used in children less than 2 years of age, but it is recommended to talk to your child’s primary care physician before doing so. 

What are the most common side effects seen with phenylephrine? 

• Nasal discharge

• Nasal stinging

• Nasal burning

• Sneezing

Contraindications & Warnings

Phenylephrine (nasal spray) should not be taken if your child has had an anaphylactic reaction (hives or swelling of the tongue) to phenylephrine previously. 

Phenylephrine nasal spray should not be taken for greater than 3 days. 

Always consult with your child’s doctor about taking phenylephrine to see if it is an appropriate option. 

Breast feeding considerations 

• Phenylephrine can be present in breast milk if being taken by the mother. 

• There are little to no reports of mothers taking phenylephrine nasal spray while breastfeeding, and therefore the effect on the infant is unknown. Other medications similar to phenylephrine have decreased milk supply produced by the mother. 

The information in this database regarding prescription drugs is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interaction 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. See disclaimer.