Pathologies accompanied by an inflammatory reaction in the upper respiratory tract are very common. In some people, these diseases recur several times a year. In some cases, pathologies have a chronic course and are exacerbated by adverse factors (hypothermia, allergic reactions). To combat inflammatory reactions, various medicinal substances are used. One of them is phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride. Drugs based on it are used both as monotherapy, and in combination with other drugs. Sympathomimetic has several analogues that do not differ in effectiveness.
What is phenylropanolamine hydrochloride?
This substance has been used for pharmacological purposes for many years. Phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride is often added to combination medicines to treat colds and allergies. The main effect of this chemical compound is vasoconstriction. That is, when the drug enters the body, vasoconstriction occurs. Most nasal sprays and drops have a similar effect. Thanks to vasoconstriction, mucus secretion decreases. As a result, nasal breathing improves. However, preparations containing phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride should be used with caution. To a greater extent this applies to children and people suffering from arterial hypertension. With frequent use or an overdose of such medicines, myocardial infarction, hemorrhagic stroke can develop. In its action, phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride is similar to vasoconstrictor adrenaline. It is an alkaloid, which is a stereoisomer of katin.
Indications for use
Preparations based on this substance are used both for allergic pathologies and as a remedy for colds. Under the influence of phenylpropanolamine a, there is a decrease in mucus production, and edema of the mucous membranes of the nose and throat also decreases. Indications for the use of the drug are the following pathological processes:
- Rhinitis. Often occurs with various acute respiratory viral infections, flu, bacterial diseases.
- Allergic rhinitis. It is observed in people prone to hypersensitivity reactions. In this case, a runny nose develops due to contact with allergens. Most often, rhinitis is associated with flowering plants, dust particles, fluff (pollinosis) entering the nasal passages.
- Mild asthma. Under the action of the substance under consideration (phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride), the production of not only nasal mucus, but also the secretion of the lower respiratory tract is reduced.
- Bacterial sinusitis occurring with rhinorrhea syndrome (runny nose).
Most often, medicines that include this substance should be used in combination with other medicines. Among them are antibiotics, antiviral and antihistamines. In some cases, combination drugs are prescribed, one of the components of which is phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride.
What medications does this drug contain?
There are several medications containing the phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride alkaloid. Drugs that contain this substance, as already mentioned, are used for colds and allergic reactions. Among them, the following drugs can be distinguished:
- "Degest". This medicine contains 2 components - phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride and paracetamol. Given the combination of anti-inflammatory and vasoconstrictive effects, the drug is prescribed for the first manifestations of a cold.
- Capsules "Coldact". In addition to the vasoconstrictor component, they contain chlorphenamine. This substance has an antiallergic effect.
- The drug "Lorraine." It is a combination of substances such as phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride, paracetamol and chlorphenamine.
- "Dietrine." Unlike other drugs, this medication has anorexigenic effect. Due to the combination with anesthetic benzocaine, the drug causes a narrowing of the vessels of the gastrointestinal tract. The result is a decrease in food requirements. The drug is used for obesity. Treatment should be under the supervision of an endocrinologist.
Contraindications and side effects
The drug can not be used for severe cardiovascular pathologies, after a recent myocardial infarction or stroke. Contraindication is hypersensitivity to ergot medications (Bromocriptine drug), a marked decrease or increase in blood pressure, toxicosis.
Among the side effects of phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride, digestive system disorders (nausea and vomiting), dizziness are distinguished. Sometimes, disorders of the nervous system can be observed. Among them - hallucinations, drowsiness, agitation. Most often, side effects develop when the medication is canceled. It is worth remembering that vasoconstrictors are addictive, so do not abuse them.
Medicines with the effects of phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride: analogues
There are many drugs containing identical active ingredient. They are called analogues, since they have the same composition and the same indications for use. Among them are Kontak and Koldar. They are combined agents and contain vasoconstrictor and antihistamine components. The drug, which contains only phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride, is Proin. Another analogue of the combined funds is the drug "Dimefort." In addition to the antihistamine and vasoconstrictor component, it also contains the substance bromocriptine. This drug is used in gynecology for the treatment of infertility and menstrual irregularities.
The interaction of the drug with other medicines
Do not use medicines containing the substance phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride, with oral contraceptives, drugs that depress the central nervous system, as well as with MAO inhibitors. It is worth remembering that bromocriptine enhances the effect of the drug "Levodopa". Therefore, when used together, it is worthwhile to cancel the drug or reduce the dosage.