Benzedrex

Generic name: propylhexedrine nasal [ PRO-pil-HEX-a-drine-NAY-sal ]
Drug class: Nasal antihistamines and decongestants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on May 27, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Benzedrex?

Benzedrex is a decongestant that is used to treat a stuffy nose caused by a cold, hay fever, or other allergies.

Benzedrex may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Benzedrex side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using Benzedrex and get medical help right away if you have:

• chest pain, trouble breathing, fast heartbeats;

• a severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears;

• a seizure;

• agitation, confusion, paranoia, hallucinations; or

• nausea, vomiting, severe constipation.

Common side effects of Benzedrex may include:

• burning or stinging in your nose;

• sneezing; or

• runny nose.

Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

Warnings

Misuse of this medicine may cause serious or fatal side effects that could lead to disability or death.

Stop using and get medical help right away if you have a severe headache, blurred vision, agitation, confusion, paranoia, hallucinations, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, fast heartbeats, or pounding in your neck or ears.

Before taking this medicine

Benzedrex may contain other ingredients such as menthol or lavender oil. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Benzedrex is safe to use if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any ingredient in the product you are using.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give Benzedrex to a child younger than 6 years old without medical advice.

How should I use Benzedrex?

Misuse of this medicine may cause serious side effects on your heart or your mental health. These effects could lead to disability or death.

Use this medicine exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Do not take by mouth. Benzedrex is for use only by inhaling the vapors through your nose.

The usual dose of this medicine is 2 inhalations every 2 hours.

Do not allow a young child to use this medicine without help from an adult.

Stop using and call your doctor if your stuffy nose does not improve after 3 days, or if it gets worse.

Long-term use or misuse of propylhexedrine nasal can damage your heart or lungs.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the inhaler tightly capped when not in use.

Throw away the inhaler after 3 months of use.

Do not break or open the inhaler device to get to the cotton rod inside. Do not eat the cotton rod or squeeze liquid from it. Using this medicine improperly could result in death.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Propylhexedrine is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

Do not use more often than every 2 hours.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222, especially if anyone has taken Benzedrex by mouth or injection.

What should I avoid while using Benzedrex?

Avoid sharing this medicine with other people. Sharing an inhaler inserted into the nose can spread infection or disease.

What other drugs will affect Benzedrex?

Other drugs may affect propylhexedrine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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