phenylephrine

noun

phen·​yl·​eph·​rine ˌfe-nᵊl-ˈe-ˌfrēn 

-frən

: a sympathomimetic agent C₉H₁₃NO₂ that is used in the form of its hydrochloride as a vasoconstrictor, a mydriatic, a nasal decongestant, and by injection to raise the blood pressure

Examples of phenylephrine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Following a review of available data, the agency determined that phenylephrine, when taken orally, does not actually work as a nasal decongestant. —Bruce Gil, Quartz, 7 Nov. 2024

The combination of acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine is better at alleviating the common cold symptoms. —Alex Yampolsky, Verywell Health, 17 July 2024

Oral phenylephrine, the active ingredient in decongestants sold in the U.S. since 2005, doesn't work. —Laura Helmuth, Scientific American, 1 Mar. 2024

Roughly two decades ago, oral phenylephrine began proliferating on pharmacy shelves despite mounting—and now damning—evidence that the drug simply does not work. —Sarah Zhang, The Atlantic, 13 Sep. 2023

Word History

Etymology

phenyl + epinephrine

First Known Use

circa 1947, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

phenylephrine

noun

phen·​yl·​eph·​rine ˌfen-ᵊl-ˈef-ˌrēn, -rən 

: a sympathomimetic agent with vasoconstrictive properties that is used in the form of its hydrochloride C₉H₁₃NO₂·HCl especially as a nasal decongestant and mydriatic and to raise blood pressure

Note: Trademarks for preparations containing phenylephrine include Actifed and Neo-Synephrine.