Generic name: benzedrex
Availability: Over the counter
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
Brand names: Benzedrex, Propylhexedrine nasal
What is Propylhexedrine (monograph)?
Introduction
Vasoconstrictor, an aliphatic amine.
Uses for Propylhexedrine
Nasal Congestion
Self-medication for temporary relief of nasal congestion associated with the common cold, hay fever, or other allergies.
As effective as other topical vasoconstrictors.
Topical nasal decongestants often preferred for short-term treatment; oral agents preferred for prolonged treatment. (See Overuse under Cautions.)
Reduce swelling and facilitate visualization of nasal and pharyngeal membranes prior to surgery or diagnostic procedures.
Open obstructed eustachian ostia in patients with ear inflammation.
Propylhexedrine Dosage and Administration
Administration
Intranasal Administration
Administer topically to the nasal mucosa as an inhalation.
Avoid contamination of the inhaler tip; inhaler is for single-patient use only.
Warm drug container in the hands prior to use to increase drug volatility.
Inhale vapor through each nostril while head is erect; blow nose thoroughly after 3–5 minutes.
Supervise use by children 6–12 years of age.
Dosage
The Benzedrex propylhexedrine inhaler delivers 0.4–0.5 mg of the drug in each 800 mL of air.
Pediatric Patients
Nasal Congestion
Intranasal
Children ≥6 years of age: 2 inhalations (0.4–0.5 mg) in each nostril no more than every 2 hours.
If symptoms are not improved after 3 consecutive days, consult a clinician. (See Overuse under Cautions.)
Adults
Nasal Congestion
Intranasal
2 inhalations (0.4–0.5 mg) in each nostril no more than every 2 hours.
If symptoms are not improved after 3 consecutive days, consult a clinician. (See Overuse under Cautions.)
Prescribing Limits
Pediatric Patients
Nasal Congestion
Intranasal
Children ≥6 years of age: Maximum of every 2 hours; maximum duration of 3 consecutive days.
Adults
Nasal Congestion
Intranasal
Maximum of every 2 hours; maximum duration of 3 consecutive days.
Special Populations
No special populations dosage recommendations at this time.
Warnings
Warnings/Precautions
General Precautions
Overuse
Possible irritation of nasal mucosa and adverse systemic effects (particularly in children) with excessive dosage and/or prolonged or too frequent use. Possible rebound congestion (rhinitis, chronic redness and swelling of the nasal mucosa); avoid prolonged use. (See Advice to Patients.)
Overdosage following oral ingestion may result in psychotic reactions, palpitation, ventricular extrasystoles, and shock.
Sympathomimetic Effects
Possible headache, hypertension, nervousness, and increased ventricular rate. Use with caution in patients with thyroid disease (e.g., hyperthyroidism), heart disease, hypertension, or diabetes mellitus.
Specific Populations
Pregnancy
Safety during pregnancy not established.
Pediatric Use
Safety and efficacy not established in children <6 years of age.
Possible irritation of nasal mucosa and adverse systemic effects associated with excessive dosage, prolonged or too frequent use, or inadvertent ingestion of nasal solution.
Common Adverse Effects
Burning, stinging, sneezing, increase in nasal discharge.
How should I use Propylhexedrine (monograph)
Administration
Intranasal Administration
Administer topically to the nasal mucosa as an inhalation.
Avoid contamination of the inhaler tip; inhaler is for single-patient use only.
Warm drug container in the hands prior to use to increase drug volatility.
Inhale vapor through each nostril while head is erect; blow nose thoroughly after 3–5 minutes.
Supervise use by children 6–12 years of age.
Dosage
The Benzedrex propylhexedrine inhaler delivers 0.4–0.5 mg of the drug in each 800 mL of air.
Pediatric Patients
Nasal Congestion
Intranasal
Children ≥6 years of age: 2 inhalations (0.4–0.5 mg) in each nostril no more than every 2 hours.
If symptoms are not improved after 3 consecutive days, consult a clinician. (See Overuse under Cautions.)
Adults
Nasal Congestion
Intranasal
2 inhalations (0.4–0.5 mg) in each nostril no more than every 2 hours.
If symptoms are not improved after 3 consecutive days, consult a clinician. (See Overuse under Cautions.)
Prescribing Limits
Pediatric Patients
Nasal Congestion
Intranasal
Children ≥6 years of age: Maximum of every 2 hours; maximum duration of 3 consecutive days.
Adults
Nasal Congestion
Intranasal
Maximum of every 2 hours; maximum duration of 3 consecutive days.
Special Populations
No special populations dosage recommendations at this time.
What other drugs will affect Propylhexedrine (monograph)?
Specific Drugs
|
Drug |
Interaction |
Comments |
|---|---|---|
|
MAO inhibitors |
Potential for enhanced sympathomimetic effects |
Interaction unlikely; however, use concomitantly with caution |