Empro

Brand Names

Acutrim 16 Hour, Acutrim II, Maximum Strength, Acutrim Late Day, Control, Dexatrim, Empro, Mega-Trim, Phenyldrine, Propagest, Propan, Rhindecon, Westrim, Westrim LA

What is Empro

Empro (phenylpropanolamine) is a decongestant that works by constricting (shrinking) blood vessels (veins and arteries) in your body. Constriction of blood vessels in your sinuses, nose, and chest allows drainage of those areas which decreases congestion. This medication is intended to treat the congestion associated with allergies, hay fever, sinus irritation, and the common cold. It also causes a decrease in appetite and is used in non-prescription diet aids.

It is very important to note that this medication has been associated with an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding into the brain or into tissue surrounding the brain) in women. Men may also be at risk. Although the risk of hemorrhagic stroke is low, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that consumers not use any products that contain phenylpropanolamine.

Side effects of Empro

If you have noticed any of these serious side effects caused by this medication, you should stop taking it and contact your doctor as soon as possible:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
• seizures;
• unusual behavior or hallucinations;
• an irregular or fast heartbeat.

Other less serious side effects may include:

• dizziness, lightheadedness, or drowsiness;
• headache;
• insomnia;
• anxiety;
• tremor (shaking) or restlessness;
• nausea or vomiting;
• sweating.

Indication

Empro is intended to treat the congestion associated with allergies, hay fever, sinus irritation, and the common cold. It also causes a decrease in appetite and is used in non-prescription diet aids.

Precautions

Stop taking this medication if you have/are:

• have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. A very dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects.
• high blood pressure;
• any type of heart disease, hardening of the arteries, or irregular heartbeat;
• thyroid problems;
• diabetes;
• glaucoma or increased pressure in your eye;
• an enlarged prostate or difficulty urinating;
• liver or kidney disease;
• pregnant;
• breastfeeding.

Dosage forms

The dose of Empro will be determined by your doctor.