Atlanta Allergy & Asthma – the largest allergy practice in Georgia – has been taking note of the fact a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel has declared oral formulations of phenylephrine ineffective. Phenylephrine is a key ingredient in many over-the-counter allergy and cold medications used to treat nasal congestion.

The drug, thought to relieve congestion by reducing the swelling of blood vessels in the nasal passages, gained popularity in the early 2000s as a replacement for pseudoephedrine, which was moved behind the counter to control its misuse as an ingredient in the making of methamphetamine.

Phenylephrine is found in drugs including Sudafed PE and Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion and is the most popular oral decongestant in the United States.  The concern goes beyond ineffectiveness as the drug can cause side effects including headaches, insomnia, and nervousness.

The panel is not questioning the effectiveness of phenylephrine nasal sprays, as they are still thought to provide temporary relief from congestion.

“It is critical to keep up with the latest clinical research for therapies for allergic diseases,” says Stanley Fineman, M.D., allergist with Atlanta Allergy & Asthma. “This FDA advisory panel of specialists reviewed the latest data and concluded that oral phenylephrine isn’t helpful for patients with nasal congestion. Allergists know which therapeutic options, based on scientific research, are best for patients with respiratory allergies.”