Recommended Dosage of Pseudoephedrine in Adults
The recommended dose of pseudoephedrine for adults and children 12 years and over is 60 mg (2 tablets of 30 mg) every 4 to 6 hours, not to exceed 8 tablets (240 mg) in 24 hours. 1
Dosage Information
Pseudoephedrine is available in several formulations:
Standard release tablets/capsules: 30 mg per tablet
- Adults and children ≥12 years: 2 tablets (60 mg) every 4-6 hours
- Maximum daily dose: 8 tablets (240 mg) in 24 hours 1
Extended-release formulations:
- 120 mg tablets: Taken every 12 hours
- 240 mg tablets: Taken once daily 2
Efficacy and Optimal Dosing
Research has established that 60 mg is the optimal single adult dose of pseudoephedrine, as it:
- Achieves maximal nasal decongestion
- Does not produce significant cardiovascular effects seen with higher doses
- Provides effective symptom relief 3
Higher doses (120 mg and 180 mg) do not provide additional decongestant benefit but may increase the risk of adverse effects, including:
- Increased pulse rate
- Elevated systolic blood pressure 3
Special Considerations
Duration of Action
- Standard formulation: 4-6 hours of symptom relief
- Extended-release formulations: 12-24 hours of symptom relief, depending on the specific product 2
Timing
- For optimal effect, pseudoephedrine should be taken as needed for symptom relief
- For specific conditions like retrograde ejaculation, a regimen of 60 mg every 6 hours has shown efficacy 4
Combination Products
- Pseudoephedrine is often combined with antihistamines (like desloratadine) for enhanced symptom relief in conditions like seasonal allergic rhinitis 5
Potential Side Effects
Common side effects include:
- Nervousness
- Excitability
- Restlessness
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Mild increases in blood pressure and heart rate
Contraindications
Pseudoephedrine should be used with caution in patients with:
- Hypertension
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disorders
- Enlarged prostate
Monitoring
No specific monitoring is required for standard doses in healthy adults. However, patients with cardiovascular conditions should be aware of potential increases in blood pressure and heart rate.
Remember that pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that works by stimulating alpha-adrenergic receptors, causing vasoconstriction in the nasal mucosa, which reduces tissue swelling and nasal congestion.