

ibuprofen and phenylephrine

Pronunciation: EYE buye pro fen and FEN il EFF rin

Brand: Advil Sinus Congestion & Pain

What is the most important information I should know about ibuprofen and phenylephrine?


Ibuprofen can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke. Do not use this medicine just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG). Ibuprofen may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal.

What is ibuprofen and phenylephrine?

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Phenylephrine is a decongestant.

Ibuprofen and phenylephrine is a combination medicine used to treat stuffy nose, sinus congestion, headache, fever, and minor aches and pains caused by the common cold or flu.

Ibuprofen and phenylephrine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ibuprofen and phenylephrine?

Ibuprofen can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke, even if you don't have any risk factors. Do not use this medicine just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).


You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to ibuprofen or phenylephrine, or if you have ever had an asthma attack or severe allergic reaction after taking aspirin or an NSAID.


  • heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes;
  • a heart attack or stroke;
  • a stomach ulcer or bleeding;
  • asthma;
  • a thyroid disorder;
  • enlarged prostate, urination problems;
  • liver or kidney disease; or
  • if you drink 3 or more alcoholic drinks per day.

If you are pregnant, you should not take ibuprofen unless your doctor tells you to. Taking an NSAID during the last 20 weeks of pregnancy can cause serious heart or kidney problems in the unborn baby and possible complications with your pregnancy.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are breastfeeding.

Ibuprofen and phenylephrine is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old.

How should I take ibuprofen and phenylephrine?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Use the lowest dose that is effective in treating your condition.


Take this medicine with a full glass of water.

Take with food or milk if this medicine upsets your stomach.

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time if you have taken this medicine within the past few days.

Call your doctor if you have a fever lasting longer than 3 days, or if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of taking this medicine.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since cold medicine is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?


What should I avoid while taking ibuprofen and phenylephrine?


Avoid taking aspirin unless your doctor tells you to.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using other cough or cold medicines that may contain similar ingredients.

What are the possible side effects of ibuprofen and phenylephrine?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficult breathing, feeling light-headed, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning in your eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash that spreads and causes blistering and peeling).

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of a heart attack or stroke: chest pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, leg swelling, feeling short of breath.


  • severe dizziness or nervousness, trouble sleeping;
  • swelling, rapid weight gain;
  • shortness of breath;
  • new or worsening stomach pain; or

Common side effects may include:

  • heartburn, stomach pain;
  • dizziness;
  • sleep problems (insomnia); or
  • feeling nervous or excited.


What other drugs will affect ibuprofen and phenylephrine?

Ask your doctor before using ibuprofen and phenylephrine if you take an antidepressant. Taking certain antidepressants with an NSAID may cause you to bruise or bleed easily.

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

  • a blood thinner (warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven);
  • heart or blood pressure medication, including a diuretic or "water pill"; or
  • steroid medicine (such as prednisone).

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

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about ibuprofen and phenylephrine.



Copyright 1996-2021 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 4.01. Revision date: 11/3/2020.


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