Pseudoephedrine

Fact Checked

Medically reviewed by Joseph Blais, Pharmacist

Last updated on July 3, 2019.

Overview | Dosage | Side Effects | Where To Buy

GENERIC NAME: Pseudoephedrine

CHINESE NAME: 偽麻黃素

COMMON BRANDS IN HONG KONG: Zyrtec-D 治敏速通鼻配方, Telfast-D, Logicin Sinus 樂治仙鼻竇藥片, Clarinase 佳連利絲, Actifed

What is Pseudoephedrine for?

Pseudoephedrine is a vasoconstrictor which can constrict your blood vessels to decrease swelling and therefore can be used as a decongestant. It can be used to treat nasal congestion in cold, flu or allergies. Pseudoephedrine is usually combined with antihistamines like Loratadine and Chlorpheniramine in a cold and cough preparation.

How to use it?

Pseudoephedrine can be taken by mouth in many forms like tablets, syrup, and solution etc. Adults and children between 12 and 17 years old should take 60 mg 3-4 times daily while children between 6 and 11 years old should take 30 mg 3-4 times daily.

What are the side effects of Pseudoephedrine?

Common side effects of Pseudoephedrine include, dizziness, headache, tremors, trouble sleeping, nervousness, and high blood pressure. Since Pseudoephedrine can also tighten the muscles in the prostate and bladder, you should be used with caution if you have prostate problems due to the difficulty in urination.

Where to buy Pseudoephedrine in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Pseudoephedrine is an over-the-counter medicine and can be purchased without a prescription in a pharmacy by speaking with the pharmacist. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.

For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at http://www.drugoffice.gov.hk

For detailed information about the use of Pseudoephedrine in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.