Leading ingredient in over-the-counter decongestants doesn’t work, FDA panel rules

The important thing ingredient in widespread decongestants corresponding to Sudafed PE, Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion and Allegra-D would not relieve nasal congestion when taken orally, a Meals and Drug Administration (FDA) panel concluded in a gathering Tuesday (Sept. 12).

After reviewing years’ price of knowledge, the FDA’s Nonprescription Drug Advisory Committee (NDAC) discovered that the effectiveness of the decongestant ingredient, phenylephrine, might help relieve a stuffy nostril when delivered straight into the nostril — through a nasal spray, for instance — however would not work when taken by mouth, the 16 panelists unanimously determined.