FDA Moves to Ban Ineffective Decongestant from Cold Medicines

The FDA has proposed removing oral phenylephrine, a common ingredient in over-the-counter cold and cough medicines, citing its ineffectiveness as a nasal decongestant. This proposal follows a unanimous vote by an expert panel against its efficacy. The FDA is seeking public comments on the proposal, and companies can continue selling products with oral phenylephrine for now. The Consumer Healthcare Products Association expressed disappointment with the FDA's decision, while companies like Procter & Gamble and GSK have yet to comment.