Drug reference
phenylephrine
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Respiratory (Decongestant)
Mechanism of action
Alpha adrenergic agonist; stimulates alpha-adrenergic receptors in nasal conjunctiva and arterioles to produce vasoconstriction that results in nasal decongestion.
Common side effects
- Stinging
- Dryness
- Rebound congestion
Known interactions (4)
- isocarboxazid + phenylephrine Contraindicated
- ergotamine + phenylephrine Major
- cabergoline + phenylephrine Moderate
- desflurane + phenylephrine Moderate
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is phenylephrine?
phenylephrine belongs to: Respiratory.
How does phenylephrine work?
Alpha adrenergic agonist; stimulates alpha-adrenergic receptors in nasal conjunctiva and arterioles to produce vasoconstriction that results in nasal decongestion.
What are the common side effects of phenylephrine?
Stinging, Dryness, Rebound congestion
Which drugs interact with phenylephrine?
isocarboxazid, ergotamine, cabergoline, desflurane
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.