phenylephrine

noun

phen·​yl·​eph·​rine ˌfe-nᵊl-ˈe-ˌfrēn 

-frən

: a sympathomimetic agent C₉H₁₃NO₂ that is used in the form of its hydrochloride as a vasoconstrictor, a mydriatic, a nasal decongestant, and by injection to raise the blood pressure

Examples of phenylephrine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Hemorrhoid Creams Over-the-counter creams for hemorrhoid treatment contain ingredients such as phenylephrine, which narrows blood vessels and reduces swelling. — Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 14 July 2025

The Johnson & Johnson products, all of which contain phenylephrine and have been marketed as decongestants, include the Codral, Sudafed, and Benadryl ranges. — New Atlas, 23 Dec. 2024

Few contained oral phenylephrine, perhaps because manufacturers privately questioned its effectiveness. — Randy Hatton, Scientific American, 21 Dec. 2023

Word History

Etymology

phenyl + epinephrine

First Known Use

circa 1947, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for phenylephrine

• acetylene
• adamantine
• adenosine
• amphetamine
• anthropocene
• apoprotein
• aquamarine
• arsphenamine
• azobenzene
• buprenorphine
• catecholamine
• chlorobenzene

Medical Definition

phenylephrine

noun

phen·​yl·​eph·​rine ˌfen-ᵊl-ˈef-ˌrēn, -rən 

: a sympathomimetic agent with vasoconstrictive properties that is used in the form of its hydrochloride C₉H₁₃NO₂·HCl especially as a nasal decongestant and mydriatic and to raise blood pressure

Note: Trademarks for preparations containing phenylephrine include Actifed and Neo-Synephrine.