Contac (phenylephrine) is a medication used to reduce nasal and sinus congestion from such ailments as the flu, allergies, cold or hay fever. According to Drugs.com, Contac is a nasal decongestant medication that tightens the blood vessels in the nose to relieve symptoms. MedlinePlus says that Contac is available as a tablet, liquid or dissolving strip, and is typically taken every four hours as needed.
Common Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, Contac can cause nausea, headache, restlessness and drowsiness. It can also cause stomach problems and nervousness. These side effects are usually temporary and should subside within two to three days. Discontinue Contac if these symptoms continue for more than three days.
Serious Side Effects
Contac can cause numerous serious side effects. According to the Mayo Clinic, it can cause an exacerbation of your nasal congestion. Your body may also absorb Contac, which can lead to tachycardia (a fast heartbeat), palpitations (a pounding heartbeat) and an irregular heartbeat (arrythmia). Heart rhythm irregularities interfere with your heart's pumping abilities. Frequent arrythmias or tachycardia can decrease the amount of blood your body receives. Contac can also cause such troublesome symptoms as increased diaphoresis (sweating), paleness, insomnia, dizziness, seizures, trouble urinating and headache. Call your doctor right away when Contac causes these side effects to develop.
Additional Concerns
Avoid using Contac if you are hypersensitive to phenylephrine. The medication alone can provoke such potentially fatal side effects as trouble breathing, swelling of your face or throat, and hives.
Avoid Contac if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), furazine, tricyclic antidepressants, digoxin, bromocriptine, methyldopa or guanadrel. Combining Contac with these drugs may result in the aforementioned effects. Also, do not take Contac if you suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure), heart problems and atherosclerosis (condition in which your blood vessels build up with fatty cholesterol). Contac may worsen these conditions.
Notify your doctor if you become pregnant or decide to breastfeed. Contac can pass into human milk and harm your baby. It is unclear whether Contac can affect your unborn child, but tell your doctor if you are pregnant, and he will assess the risks and benefits of continuing or discontinuing Contac.
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