Phenylpropanolamine Hcl
Phebylpropanalamine hcl (PPA) is a sympathomimetic amine which causes release of norepinephrine by stimulating the alpha and beta adreno receptors indirectly. PPA is used in both human and veterinary medicine. In veterinary medicine Phebylpropanalamine for dogs and cats is commonly used to treat urinary incontinence. It increases the smooth muscle tone of the urethra and the bladder neck thereby controlling incontinence. The other pharmacological effects are vasoconstriction, increased heart rate and increased coronary blood flow, increased blood pressure and mild CNS stimulation.
In humans Phenylpropanalamine PPA is used to treat nasal congestion which is generally caused by allergies, common cold, hay fever, rhinitis and sinusitis. It suppresses the appetite and hence used as a non prescription diet - aid for weight loss.
PPA is generally available on prescription and as over the counter drug. But due to the phenylpropanalamine hoax that it causes stroke in young women, it is no more available as over the counter drug in the United States. It is completely banned in Canada. However it is still available over the counter in European countries and Asian countries like India.
The side effects of PPA are headache, dizziness, loss of appetite, dry mouth, restlessness and trouble in sleeping. If there is dry mouth it can be relieved by using chewing gum, sugarless hard candy, drink a lot of water or by using a saliva substitute. If there are symptoms like irregular heartbeat, visual problems, rash, increased nasal congestion, inability to use one side of the body or nervousness; it is advisable to obtain immediate medical help.
Store the drug in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and children.