Pseudoephedrine products removed from over-the-counter sale

Since the end of 2024, decongestant tablets containing pseudoephedrine, a vasoconstrictor that can trigger hypertension, stroke, or heart attack, are no longer available over the counter in France. None are currently marketed, as manufacturers have chosen to withdraw them. Consumers are advised to be careful if they still have any such products in their possession and to avoid turning to other decongestants.

Health risks led to the removal

The removal of these medications from over-the-counter sale followed documentation of the adverse effects of pseudoephedrine for years. The vasoconstriction, which relieves the feeling of a blocked nose, increases the risk of stroke, hypertension, or heart attack. Other decongestants remain on the market but require a prescription. These medications have the same disadvantages as pseudoephedrine, so it is better to avoid them.

Specific products affected by the withdrawal

Several specific products containing pseudoephedrine have been withdrawn, including Actifed cold day and night (diphenhydramine, paracetamol, pseudoephedrine), Humex cold (chlorphenamine, paracetamol, pseudoephedrine), Rhinofluimucil (acetylcysteine, benzalkonium chloride, tuaminoheptane), and Aturgyl (oxymetazoline). Dérinox (naphazoline, prednisolone) is also mentioned as a product affected by the withdrawal.

Gradual withdrawal by manufacturers

The process of removing these medications from over-the-counter sale took time, and pharmaceutical companies have gradually stopped their marketing. This transition reflects a broader effort to reduce the availability of medications with known risks, especially those that can be accessed without a prescription.