pseudoephedrine

American  

[soo-doh-i-fed-rin, -ef-i-dreen, -drin] / ˌsu doʊ ɪˈfɛd rɪn, -ˈɛf ɪˌdrin, -drɪn /

noun

Pharmacology.

1. a dextrorotatory, isomeric compound, C 1 0 H 1 5 NO, used as a nasal decongestant.

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pseudoephedrine British  

/ ˌsjuːdəʊˈɛfɪˌdriːn, -ˌdrɪn /

noun

1. a drug similar in action to ephedrine, used extensively as a decongestant

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Etymology

Origin of pseudoephedrine

pseudo- + ephedrine

Compare meaning

How does pseudoephedrine compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• pseudoephedrine vs. ephedrine

Example Sentences

Phenylephrine had become the main drug in over-the-counter decongestants when medicines with an older ingredient — pseudoephedrine — were moved behind pharmacy counters.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 20, 2023

Ones containing pseudoephedrine are being reviewed because they may cause vessels supplying the brain to contract or spasm, reducing blood flow.

From BBC • Feb. 23, 2023

That’s the only place I can think of where pineapple exposure might coincide with cough syrup old enough to still contain pseudoephedrine.

From New York Times • Oct. 14, 2021

Be cautious with: Products that contain the decongestants phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine, such as certain OTC multisymptom cold and cough remedies.

From Washington Post • Aug. 6, 2021

One proposal would end local rules requiring a prescription to get the allergy medication pseudoephedrine.

From Washington Times • May 15, 2020