FDA Moves to Ban Ineffective Phenylephrine in Cold Medicines

The FDA has proposed removing oral phenylephrine from cold, cough, and allergy medications, as it is ineffective as a decongestant. This decision follows a unanimous advisory committee conclusion and years of scientific evidence showing phenylephrine's ineffectiveness compared to a placebo. The proposal, open for public comment, could significantly impact the $1.76 billion market of over-the-counter decongestants, affecting popular brands like Sudafed and Tylenol. The ruling does not apply to nasal sprays or eye drops, where phenylephrine is more effective.