It doesn’t work anymore.
When the FDA had a Breaking Bad bed-wetting spasm back in 20 they moved Pseudoephedrine to the list of drugs you must buy direct form the pharmacist. Although consumers can purchase some medications containing pseudoephedrine without a prescription, the FDA has greatly restricted access to the drug by limiting the amount people can buy per month, requiring a photo ID, and making each person sign a log when they purchase it.
They replaced OTC drugs with phenylephrine.
Phenylephrine — found in drugs including Sudafed PE, Vicks Nyquil Sinex Nighttime Sinus Relief and Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion — is the most popular oral decongestant in the United States, generating almost $1.8 billion in sales last year, according to data presented Monday by FDA officials.
The drug was thought to relieve congestion by reducing the swelling of blood vessels in the nasal passages.
The Food and Drug Administration advisory panel’s vote reflects damning evidence provided by the FDA that found that when phenylephrine is taken orally, a very small amount of the drug actually reaches the nose to relieve congestion.
Now CVS drug stores are removing decongestants with phenylephrine off their shelves because the FDA says it doesn’t help congestion. It is found in common versions of Sudafed, Mucinex, Vicks, Allegra and Dayquil.
Hmm, what billion dollar drug will they replace it with?