Effects of pseudoephedrine: A Synthesis of Findings from 19 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Pseudoephedrine is a common medication used for treating nasal congestion, and research has investigated its effects and safety in various contexts. One study found that a combined formulation of loratadine and pseudoephedrine (LTD+PSE Repetabs) was well-tolerated and associated with fewer adverse effects compared to separate administration of loratadine and pseudoephedrine. 9 However, another study revealed that pseudoephedrine can increase blood pressure and plasma noradrenaline levels, particularly in individuals with pheochromocytoma, a condition involving adrenal gland tumors. 19 Furthermore, research has explored the effects of pseudoephedrine on exercise performance, with some studies suggesting it may not have ergogenic effects during endurance running. 8 In contrast, other studies have indicated that pseudoephedrine might enhance short-term maximal exercise performance in athletes. 12 Additionally, research has examined the potential impact of pseudoephedrine on infants through breast milk, suggesting that it can be transferred to infants during breastfeeding. 7

Benefits and Risks

Benefits Summary

Pseudoephedrine is effective in treating nasal congestion. It can be particularly beneficial in combination with other medications like loratadine, potentially reducing adverse effects. 9 Some studies suggest pseudoephedrine might enhance exercise performance, but this requires further investigation. 12

Risks Summary

Pseudoephedrine can cause adverse effects such as increased blood pressure, insomnia, palpitations, dry mouth, and anxiety. 9 19 It should be used with caution in individuals with pre-existing medical conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid disorders, glaucoma, prostate enlargement, urinary retention, and those taking MAO inhibitors. 13 1 High doses can lead to addiction or dependence. 12 It can also be transferred to infants through breast milk. 7 Therefore, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before taking pseudoephedrine.

Comparison Between Studies

Similarities Between Studies

Multiple studies agree that pseudoephedrine can be effective in treating nasal congestion. 9 14 Research also consistently highlights potential side effects like increased blood pressure, insomnia, palpitations, dry mouth, and anxiety. 9 19

Differences Between Studies

There is a lack of consensus on the impact of pseudoephedrine on exercise performance. Some studies suggest it may not enhance endurance running, 8 15 while others indicate it could potentially improve short-term maximal exercise performance. 12 Similarly, research findings on the effects of pseudoephedrine on infants via breast milk are inconclusive. 7

Consistency and Contradictions in the Findings

Pseudoephedrine is generally effective in treating nasal congestion. 9 14 However, its potential to increase blood pressure and other adverse effects needs to be considered. 9 19 The research on its impact on exercise performance and infant exposure through breast milk is not yet conclusive and requires further investigation. 8 15 12 7

Practical Applications and Precautions

Pseudoephedrine can be a valuable treatment for nasal congestion, but it is crucial to use it with caution. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions should consult their healthcare provider before using pseudoephedrine. 13 1 Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid pseudoephedrine unless advised by their healthcare provider. 7

Limitations of Current Research

The current body of research on pseudoephedrine has limitations. There is a lack of consensus on its impact on exercise performance and infant exposure through breast milk. 8 15 12 7 Further research is needed to address these gaps in knowledge.

Future Research Directions

Additional research is essential to better understand the effects of pseudoephedrine on exercise performance, particularly its potential ergogenic effects. 8 15 12 Further studies are also needed to clarify the impact of pseudoephedrine on infants via breast milk. 7 Long-term effects of pseudoephedrine also warrant further investigation.

Conclusion

Pseudoephedrine is a medication used to treat nasal congestion. It can be effective, but it also carries potential risks, including increased blood pressure and other adverse effects. 9 19 Consulting a healthcare professional is essential before using pseudoephedrine, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. 13 1 7 Further research is necessary to fully understand the effects of pseudoephedrine on exercise performance and infant exposure through breast milk. 8 15 12 7

Literature analysis of 19 papers
Positive Content
10
Neutral Content
2
Negative Content
7
Article Type
12
0
0
1
19
1.

Does pseudoephedrine increase blood pressure in patients with controlled hypertension?

Author: CoatesM L, RemboldC M, FarrB M

Hypertension management

The study found that pseudoephedrine, at standard doses, had no significant effect on systolic or diastolic blood pressure in patients with controlled hypertension.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

2.

Effects of pseudoephedrine on rat fetal bone development: evaluation by three different methods.

Author: YiğitHüseyin, BalcıoğluEsra, Uçarİlyas, DeğermenciMuhammet, ÖnderGözde Özge, CeylanTayfun, UnurErdoğan

Calcium reduction
Long bone development disruption
Ossification impairment

This study investigated the effects of pseudoephedrine (PSE) on long bone development in rat fetuses during pregnancy. PSE was found to negatively impact bone ossification and reduce bone length in a dose-dependent manner.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

3.

Analgesic Effects of Ephedra Herb Extract, Ephedrine Alkaloids-Free Ephedra Herb Extract, Ephedrine, and Pseudoephedrine on Formalin-Induced Pain.

Author: NakamoriShunsuke, TakahashiJun, HyugaSumiko, YangJinwei, TakemotoHiroaki, MaruyamaTakuro, OshimaNaohiro, UchiyamaNahoko, AmakuraYoshiaki, HyugaMasashi, HakamatsukaTakashi, GodaYukihiro, OdaguchiHiroshi, HanawaToshihiko, KobayashiYoshinori

Pain relief

This study investigated the analgesic effect of Ephedra Herb (EH) in mice with formalin-induced pain. While ephedrine alkaloids contribute to the initial analgesic effect, constituents other than ephedrine alkaloids, including pseudoephedrine, play a role in alleviating pain in the second phase.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

4.

Effects of pseudoephedrine on parameters affecting exercise performance: a meta-analysis.

Author: GheorghievMaria D, HosseiniFarzad, MoranJason, CooperChris E

Enhanced performance
Stimulant activity

This meta-analysis reviewed the effects of pseudoephedrine (PSE) on factors relating to sport performance. The analysis found that PSE may have a positive effect on some aspects of performance, such as time to exhaustion and perceived exertion. However, the evidence was limited and further research is needed.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

5.

Contrasting effects of pseudoephedrine and papaverine in dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis.

Author: HarrisNorman R, SpecianRobert D, CarterPatsy R, MorganGeorgia A

DSS-induced colitis treatment

The study examines the effects of vasoconstrictors (pseudoephedrine) and vasodilators (papaverine) on the outcome of dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

6.

Effects of pseudoephedrine on maximal cycling power and submaximal cycling efficiency.

Author: HodgesAlastair N H, LynnBrenna M, BulaJonathan E, DonaldsonMeghan G, DagenaisMarc O, McKenzieDonald C

Pseudoephedrine did not affect anaerobic cycling performance or aerobic cycling efficiency in healthy moderately trained males.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

7.

Pseudoephedrine: effects on milk production in women and estimation of infant exposure via breastmilk.

Author: AljazafKhalidah, HaleThomas W, IlettKenneth F, HartmannPeter E, MitoulasLeon R, KristensenJudith H, HackettL Peter

Novel lactation suppression
Reduced milk production

A single dose of pseudoephedrine significantly reduced milk production. However, the calculated infant dose delivered via milk was < 10% of the maternal dose and is unlikely to affect the infant adversely.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

8.

Physiological, subjective and performance effects of pseudoephedrine and phenylpropanolamine during endurance running exercise.

Author: ChesterN, ReillyT, MottramD R

This study found that maximal therapeutic doses of pseudoephedrine or phenylpropanolamine, common OTC decongestant ingredients, do not affect endurance running performance.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Controlled Clinical TrialA clinical trial that evaluates the effectiveness of a treatment by comparing a group that receives the intervention with a group that receives a placebo or standard treatment.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

9.

A comparative study of the side effects between pseudoephedrine in Loratadine plus Pseudoephedrine Sulfate Repetabs Tables and loratadine + pseudoephedrine tablet in treatment of allergic rhinitis in Thai patients.

Author: SupiyaphunPakpoom, ChochaipanichnonLadda, KerekhanjanarongVirachai, SaengpanichSupinda

Allergic rhinitis treatment
Well tolerated
Insomnia
Tremor

This study compared the adverse reactions of loratadine plus pseudoephedrine sulfate Repetabs (LTD+PSE Repetabs) with loratadine plus pseudoephedrine tablets in treating allergic rhinitis. LTD+PSE Repetabs were found to be well tolerated with fewer adverse effects compared to loratadine plus pseudoephedrine tablets, particularly tremor and insomnia.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

10.

Comparative oral and topical decongestant effects of phenylpropanolamine and d-pseudoephedrine.

Author: EricksonC H, McLeodR L, MingoG G, EganR W, PedersenO F, HeyJ A

Nasal decongestion
Blood pressure increase

Phenylpropanolamine and d-pseudoephedrine are commonly used decongestants. This study compared their nasal decongestant activity and cardiovascular profiles in a feline model. Both drugs demonstrated equieffective nasal decongestant activity and produced similar increases in blood pressure, suggesting a similar cardiovascular profile.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

11.

The psychometric and cardiac effects of pseudoephedrine in the hyperbaric environment.

Author: TaylorD M, O'TooleK S, AubleT E, RyanC M, ShermanD R

Increased anxiety
Memory impairment

Pseudoephedrine did not significantly affect cognitive function in divers at 3 atm of pressure, suggesting it does not increase the risk of diving. However, depth itself significantly increased anxiety levels and decreased verbal fluency. While pseudoephedrine increased heart rate, depth decreased it, but these effects are unlikely to be clinically significant during diving.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

12.

Muscular and cardiorespiratory effects of pseudoephedrine in human athletes.

Author: GillN D, ShieldA, BlazevichA J, ZhouS, WeatherbyR P

No ergogenic effect

A 180 mg dose of pseudoephedrine ingested 45 min prior to exercise did not enhance short-term maximal exercise performance or alter related physiological variables.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

13.

No cardiovascular effects of single-dose pseudoephedrine in patients with essential hypertension treated with beta-blockers.

Author: MoresN, CampiaU, NavarraP, CardilloC, PreziosiP

Blood pressure rise

This study investigates the cardiovascular response to pseudoephedrine in hypertensive patients treated with different types of beta-blockers.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

14.

The effects of oral pseudoephedrine on nasal patency in the common cold: a double-blind single-dose placebo-controlled trial.

Author: TavernerD, DanzC, EconomosD

Relieves nasal congestion

A single 60 mg dose of pseudoephedrine produces significant increases in the dimensions of the nasal cavity compared to placebo, which is associated with a reduction in the symptom of congestion.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

15.

Pseudoephedrine is without ergogenic effects during prolonged exercise.

Author: GilliesH, DermanW E, NoakesT D, SmithP, EvansA, GabrielsG

Altered plasma concentration
No ergogenic effect

A single therapeutic dose of pseudoephedrine did not have a measurable ergogenic effect during high-intensity exercise of 1-h duration, but plasma drug concentrations and urinary excretion were altered by exercise.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

16.

Comparison of the effects of astemizole/pseudoephedrine and triprolidine/pseudoephedrine on CNS activity and psychomotor function.

Author: StanleyN, AlfordC A, RombautN E, HindmarchI

Improved tracking accuracy
No daytime drowsiness
Daytime sedation (triprolidine-D)

This double-blind, placebo-controlled study compared the sedative properties of astemizole-D and triprolidine-D. Triprolidine-D was found to produce significantly more daytime sedation and drowsiness than astemizole-D or placebo. Astemizole-D did not produce daytime sedation or drowsiness, suggesting it may be a better option for patients who need to remain alert during the day.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

17.

Cardiopulmonary and subjective effects of a 60 mg dose of pseudoephedrine on graded treadmill exercise.

Author: ClemonsJ M, CrosbyS L

No impairment of VO2
Augments submaximal HR
Slows HR recovery

Pseudoephedrine did not affect VO2 or other cardiopulmonary variables during submaximal or maximal exercise, but it increased submaximal exercise HR and slowed HR recovery.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

18.

Cardiovascular effects of pseudoephedrine in medically controlled hypertensive patients.

Author: BeckR A, MercadoD L, SeguinS M, AndradeW P, CushnerH M

Nasal congestion treatment
Hypertension risk

Sustained-release pseudoephedrine, an oral sympathomimetic used for nasal congestion, has not been prospectively studied for safety in hypertensive patients.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

19.

Effects of repeated doses of pseudoephedrine on blood pressure and plasma catecholamines in normal subjects and in patients with phaeochromocytoma.

Author: GordonR D, BallantineD M, BachmannA W

Pressor response in hypertension

A non-prescription decongestant containing pseudoephedrine increased blood pressure and plasma noradrenaline concentration in patients with phaeochromocytoma. In healthy subjects, it prevented falls in blood pressure and noradrenaline, but did not increase them.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

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