Pharmacy/Ephedra

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Expert: Nigel Simmons - 12/31/2003


Question
Could you tell me if what is in Tylenol Sinus is the same thing as ephedra?  I am very concerned, thanks.

Answer
R

The two products are quite different.

Tylenol Sinus contains Acetaminophen (a mild analgesic/antipyretic), Guaiphenesin (an expectorant) and Pseudoephedrine (a decongestant).

Ephedra is a herbal product believed to have been used as a traditional Chinese medicine for several thousand years. However, it has not been approved as a medicine or tested in the same way that licensed medicines have. It is therefore always uncertain what interactions or adverse effects could occur.

Pseudoephedrine and the related product Ephedrine are not the same as Ephedra, and do not have the same properties.


I hope this helps, but come back to me if I have not addressed all your concerns.

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Nigel Simmons

Expertise

I am happy to answer general questions on medicines and hospital care. If possible, please use approved / chemical names rather than brands which are not internationally recognised. Like all health professionals I am bound by a duty of care which prevents me giving detailed information about medication or treatment of people other than the questioner. I will endeavour to help wherever possible or point towards more appropriate advice. If however your question crosses too far into patient confidentiality, I hope you will understand why I cannot answer your question. Consider.. would you want me to discuss your care with a friend or relative without your knowledge?

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Registered as a UK pharmacist in 1982 and have worked in a number of hospital and health management posts around the UK. Formerly Chief Pharmacist for a 440 bed general hospital in Cambridgeshire.
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Previously Sysop on CompuServe UK Professionals forum.

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