Pseudoephedrine (PSE) is a common oral medication used to relieve nasal and sinus congestion. As a decongestant, its primary function is to shrink blood vessels within the nasal passages (vasoconstriction). This action reduces swelling and inflammation of the mucous membranes, opening airways and alleviating the feeling of a stuffy nose or pressure. Understanding the proper dosage ensures the medication is effective while minimizing side effects. This guidance should not replace the advice of a pharmacist or physician, who can provide specific medical recommendations.
Standard Dosage for Adults
The typical dosage for pseudoephedrine in adults depends on whether the product is formulated for immediate release (IR) or extended release (ER). Immediate-release tablets provide rapid relief, usually containing 30 to 60 milligrams (mg) of pseudoephedrine per dose. Adults generally take 60 mg every four to six hours as needed to manage symptoms.
Extended-release formulations maintain a consistent level of medication for a longer duration, reducing dosing frequency. These are commonly available in 12-hour and 24-hour options. The standard dose for a 12-hour product is 120 mg, taken once every 12 hours. For the 24-hour product, the dose is 240 mg, taken once daily. These standard doses are intended for temporary relief of congestion caused by the common cold or allergies.
Understanding Maximum Daily Limits
While standard dosing provides effective relief, there is a strict ceiling on the amount of pseudoephedrine an adult should consume in a 24-hour period. The maximum recommended daily dose for adults is consistently 240 mg. This maximum applies whether the drug is taken in multiple smaller immediate-release doses or in a single 24-hour extended-release dose. Exceeding this 240 mg limit significantly increases the potential for serious adverse effects, which is why product labels emphasize this restriction.
Overdosing on pseudoephedrine can lead to dangerous consequences due to its effect on the sympathetic nervous system. Primary risks involve the cardiovascular system, potentially causing a rapid heart rate (palpitations) and a significant increase in blood pressure. Other symptoms of excessive intake include central nervous system overstimulation, such as severe restlessness, anxiety, excitability, tremors, and difficulty sleeping. Because of these serious risks and the drug’s potential for misuse, federal laws regulate the amount an individual can purchase, reinforcing the importance of adhering to medical dosage limits.
Dosing for Children and Duration of Treatment
Dosing pseudoephedrine for children requires extreme caution and differs significantly from adult recommendations. Many healthcare professionals strongly advise against giving any over-the-counter cough and cold medicine, including pseudoephedrine, to children under four years of age. For children between four and five years old, the typical dose is 15 mg every four to six hours, with a maximum limit of 60 mg in 24 hours. Children aged six to 12 years can usually take 30 mg every four to six hours, up to a maximum of 120 mg in 24 hours.
Extended-release products are generally not recommended for children under 12 years old. All pediatric dosing should be confirmed with a physician or pharmacist, especially for younger ages. The safest approach involves weight-based dosing determined by a healthcare provider, rather than relying solely on age categories. Regardless of age, pseudoephedrine is intended only for short-term use, and treatment should not exceed seven consecutive days. If congestion symptoms persist after a week, it may indicate a medical condition requiring proper diagnosis and different treatment.