phenylephrine

noun

phen·​yl·​eph·​rine ˌfe-nᵊl-ˈe-ˌfrēn How to pronounce phenylephrine (audio)
-frən
: a sympathomimetic agent C9H13NO2 that is used in the form of its hydrochloride as a vasoconstrictor, a mydriatic, a nasal decongestant, and by injection to raise the blood pressure

Examples of phenylephrine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These can potentially interact with phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine as well. Alex Yampolsky, Verywell Health, 3 Mar. 2025 Certain people should avoid taking phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine, or both. Alex Yampolsky, Verywell Health, 3 Mar. 2025 Few contained oral phenylephrine, perhaps because manufacturers privately questioned its effectiveness. Randy Hatton, Scientific American, 21 Dec. 2023 Nasal sprays containing phenylephrine are also a good way to manage congestion—but Dr. Johnson advises against using them for more than a few days to avoid becoming dependent on them. Ashley Abramson, SELF, 12 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for phenylephrine

Word History

Etymology

phenyl + epinephrine

First Known Use

circa 1947, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of phenylephrine was circa 1947

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Cite this Entry

“Phenylephrine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phenylephrine. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

phenylephrine

noun
phen·​yl·​eph·​rine ˌfen-ᵊl-ˈef-ˌrēn, -rən How to pronounce phenylephrine (audio)
: a sympathomimetic agent with vasoconstrictive properties that is used in the form of its hydrochloride C9H13NO2·HCl especially as a nasal decongestant and mydriatic and to raise blood pressure

Note: Trademarks for preparations containing phenylephrine include Actifed and Neo-Synephrine.

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