Overview
- CVS has decided to remove select over-the-counter cold and allergy medications containing the ingredient phenylephrine, following a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel's finding that phenylephrine is not effective at relieving nasal congestion when administered orally.
- Although the FDA has not officially requested the removal of these products, CVS has taken the initiative to do so voluntarily, being the first major pharmacy to make such a move.
- Phenylephrine, a key ingredient in many medications, is found in over-the-counter drugs like NyQuil, Benadryl, Sudafed, and Mucinex. Research reveals that only a minor amount of orally taken phenylephrine reaches the nose to alleviate congestion.
- Other major pharmacy chains such as Walgreens, Walmart, and RiteAid have not yet decided to follow suit, waiting for a final ruling from the FDA before taking any action.
- The FDA's final decision about whether to remove phenylephrine's over-the-counter status or ban products containing the ingredient altogether may take months, especially if the results are contested.