Pseudoephedrine | Abuse, Effects, & Risk Of Addiction

When used properly, the nasal decongestant pseudoephedrine is not addictive or high risk. However, this non-prescription drug can be misused or modified to create the powerful, dangerous street drug methamphetamine (crystal meth).

What Is Pseudoephedrine?

Pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in the brand-name cold medicine Sudafed, among others, is classified as both a phenethylamine and amphetamine drug. 

It is most commonly used to treat sinus congestion due to the common cold, hay fever, and similar conditions and works by shrinking blood vessels in the sinuses/nasal passages.

Is Pseudoephedrine Available Over-The-Counter?

In the past, pseudoephedrine products were readily available over-the-counter (OTC) in pharmacies and drug stores. 

However, in the face of widespread pseudoephedrine abuse, the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005 legislated that pseudoephedrine-containing medications be subject to additional security. 

While the drug is still available OTC, individuals can now only purchase a limited amount of pseudoephedrine each month and only with photo ID.

Pseudoephedrine Abuse & Meth Production

Although pseudoephedrine can be converted into meth, it can also be misused for its mild stimulant effects. In this way, it is similar to the OTC cough medication dextromethorphan (DXM), which is also sometimes abused in high doses for its dissociative properties.

In response to the restrictions on pseudoephedrine, meth lab activity in the United States has decreased significantly. And in the years since, US meth producers have been forced to use other drugs, especially phenylephrine, to continue cooking meth.

Effects Of Pseudoephedrine Abuse

If taken in higher doses than recommended, pseudoephedrine acts as a mild stimulant. It will tend to suppress one’s appetite and increase wakefulness, energy, and concentration, along with heart rate, blood sure, and blood pressure.

The drug can also potentially produce a euphoric high and is sometimes mixed with alcohol in order to increase its pleasurable effects or counteract the sedating effects of drinking.

However, misusing pseudoephedrine in this way can greatly increase a person’s risk of experiencing negative side effects and can cause individuals to drink more than they otherwise would, leading to severe or even fatal alcohol poisoning.

Side Effects

The most common side effects associated with use of pseudoephedrine can include:

• restlessness
• shakiness
• nausea or vomiting
• dry mouth
• headache

However, the drug can also cause more serious side effects such as:

• sleep problems
• dizziness
• difficulty breathing
• nervousness
• stomach pain
• pounding, fast, or irregular heartbeats

These side-side effects are likely to occur more frequently and severely if the drug is abused in higher doses than recommended.

Pseudoephedrine Abuse & The Risk Of Addiction

Long-term misuse of pseudoephedrine may cause unhealthy weight loss, insomnia, and negative effects related to cardiovascular and mental function. 

And, over time, pseudoephedrine can also be addictive and dependence-forming, which is why use of the drug is only recommended for up to ten days at time.

After addiction or dependence develops, a person may experience withdrawal symptoms like:

• anxiety, depression, or irritability
• lethargy or sleepiness
• increased appetite and weight gain
• nightmares
• nasal congestion
• drug cravings

While these withdrawal symptoms are not life-threatening, they can be uncomfortable and push a person to return to pseudoephedrine abuse or other forms of drug abuse, including more dangerous illicit substances or prescription drugs.

Pseudoephedrine Addiction Treatment

Personalized substance abuse treatment programs can be developed to help those struggling with pseudoephedrine addiction. 

These programs, which are hosted in inpatient or outpatient settings, focus on helping individuals better understand the factors underlying their addiction while building up positive coping strategies.

Common treatment options include dual diagnosis care for contributing mental health issues, counseling, medical detox, peer support, and behavioral therapy.

If you or a loved one struggle with a substance use disorder, we can help. Call today to learn more about our treatment centers.