‘PE’ may pose risks

Due to the hype on phenylpropanolamine (PPA) late last year, many consumers are turning to other options to unclog that stuffy nose.

Another commonly used ingredient in cold and allergy medicines available today is phenylephrine (PE), which works as a vasoconstrictor, that is, it shrinks swollen nasal mucous membranes, thus reducing nasal congestion. PE, in eyedrop form, is also used to treat eye irritations caused by dust and allergies.

PE formulations are available in syrup, eyedrop form and nasal spray, the last being relatively more expensive.

Phenylephrine boasts a safer way to treat symptoms related to colds, sinusitis and allergic rhinitis. However, this does not mean it is more effective.

Independent studies conducted in the United States show that cold medicines containing phenylephrine are comparatively less effective than other formulations available in the market today. In general, findings point out that PE has lesser decongestant capabilities compared to phenylpropanolamine.

The prolonged use of PE, specifically in nasal drops and sprays, leads to rebound congestion. This is saying that the relief is short-lived and the stuffiness will only return with prolonged use.

In an extreme case, hallucinations and paranoid delusions occurred in a patient after the excessive use of a nasal spray containing phenylephrine.

Phenylephrine’s side-effects in children can be serious. Studies note hypertension with pulmonary edema occurring in infants after a 10 percent PE concentration was given in the form of eyedrops. An eight-year-old was diagnosed with hypertension and arrhythmias caused by the use of 10 percent PE eyedrops.

There are about 32 published cases of systemic cardiovascular reactions related to the administration of phenylephrine solution to the eyes.

Reported cases concerning the serious side-effects of PE are enough to form a body of opinion advocating a regulated amount of PE in certain formulas. Drug regulating bodies have yet to announce their stand on this issue.

Regulations are not fully effective until they are implemented. The track record on complying with regulations has much to be desired. Half-hearted compliance is rampant and vigilant consumers view this as an unethical corporate strategy to boost sales.