Phenylephrine (rectal)

Phenylephrine is a decongestant that reduces the size of blood vessels. Enlarged blood vessels can lead to hemorrhoids.

Phenylephrine rectal is applied to the rectum to relieve itching, burning, irritation, and swelling caused by hemorrhoids.

Phenylephrine rectal may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

You may use phenylephrine (rectal) up to 4 times daily, especially after a bowel movement.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Do not place phenylephrine (rectal) cream, gel, or ointment inside your rectum. These forms of phenylephrine (rectal) are for use only on the area around and just outside of your rectum.

Only the rectal suppository should be placed into the rectum.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, or if they get worse.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Follow all instructions on your medicine label and package. Inform all your healthcare providers about your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you are using.

You should not use phenylephrine if you are allergic to it. Phenylephrine is often found in some cold or allergy medicines.

Check with a doctor or pharmacist to see if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have:

• heart disease;
• high blood pressure;
• enlarged prostate or problems with urination;
• diabetes; or
• a thyroid disorder.

Consult a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Always check with a doctor before using phenylephrine (rectal) on a child. Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 2 years old.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Phenylephrine may cause serious side effects. Stop using phenylephrine and call your doctor right away if you have:

• rectal bleeding;
• severe irritation inside or around your rectum; or
• increased blood pressure—severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears, anxiety, nosebleed.

Less serious side effects are more likely, and you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Since phenylephrine (rectal) is used only when needed, you are unlikely to miss a dose. Do not use phenylephrine (rectal) more than 4 times per day.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Do not take phenylephrine (rectal) suppository by mouth. It is for use only in your rectum.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using over-the-counter medicines that may contain ingredients similar to phenylephrine (rectal).

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using phenylephrine with any other medications, especially:

• blood pressure medication; or
• an MAO inhibitor--isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine, and others.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect phenylephrine (rectal), including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.