Cyntex

Cyntex has been withdrawn in Canada. In November 2000, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a public health advisory against the use of the drug.

upper respiratory-tract symptoms

Cyntex is an expectorant. It is used to break up congestion and mucous to ease breathing. Cyntex thins mucous, increases lubrication of the respiratory tract (lungs, nose, and throat), and increases the removal of mucous.

Phenylpropanolamine (Cyntex) and Phenylephrine (Cyntex) are decongestants. They constrict (shrink) blood vessels (veins and arteries), which reduces the swelling of mucous membranes in areas such as the nose and sinuses.

Cyntex is used to treat the symptoms of the common cold and of infections of your sinuses, your lungs, and your throat.

Phenylpropanolamine (Cyntex), an ingredient in this product, has been associated with an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding into the brain or into tissue surrounding the brain) in women. Men may also be at risk. Although the risk of hemorrhagic stroke is low, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that consumers not use any products that contain Phenylpropanolamine (Cyntex).

Cyntex may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

See also:
What is the most important information I should know about Cyntex?

Phenylephrine (Cyntex) hydrochloride should not be used in patients with severe hypertension, ventricular tachycardia, or in patients who are hypersensitive to it or to any of the components.

See also:
What other drugs will affect Cyntex?

Vasopressors, particularly metaraminol, may cause serious cardiac arrhythmias during halothane anesthesia and therefore should be used only with great caution or not at all.

MAO Inhibitors - The pressor effect of sympathomimetic pressor amines is markedly potentiated in patients receiving monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI). Therefore, when initiating pressor therapy in these patients, the initial dose should be small and used with due caution. The pressor response of adrenergic agents may also be potentiated by tricyclic antidepressants.

No serious side effects from Cyntex are expected. Stop taking Cyntex and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Cyntex and talk to your doctor if you experience

• dizziness or headache;
• nervousness, restlessness, or insomnia;
• nausea or stomach upset; or
• difficulty urinating.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.