Tag: Alpha 1 agonist

In the U.S., one in two households reported using an oral decongestant in the past year [1.10.2]. This raises a critical question for a popular ingredient: is phenylephrine a vasoconstrictor, and how effective is it?

Phenylephrine primarily functions as a selective alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist, a mechanism that leads to the constriction of both arteries and veins [1.2.4, 1.2.7]. This article explores the detailed pharmacology of how does phenylephrine affect the veins and its broader cardiovascular implications.

In 2023, an FDA advisory panel concluded that oral phenylephrine is ineffective as a decongestant, sparking questions about this ingredient found in many common cold medications. To truly understand what is the indication for phenylephrine, it is crucial to recognize that its uses vary significantly depending on the route of administration, from hospital settings to over-the-counter products.