Definition

1. Noun:
   • A Sympathomimetic Amine: Phenylpropanolamine is a synthetic drug that mimics the effects of the sympathetic nervous system. It is chemically related to amphetamines and ephedrine.
   • A Decongestant and Appetite Suppressant: It was historically used as an ingredient in over-the-counter medications to relieve nasal congestion from colds or allergies and in some diet aids to suppress appetite.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The doctor explained that phenylpropanolamine was the active ingredient in the old cold medicine.
  • Due to safety concerns, the use of phenylpropanolamine in consumer drugs was discontinued.

Advanced Usage

• Medical/Regulatory Context: The term is primarily used in medical, pharmacological, and regulatory contexts to discuss drug composition, historical use, and public health advisories.
  • The study investigated the association between phenylpropanolamine and an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke.

Variants and Related Words

• PPA: A common initialism for phenylpropanolamine.
• Nor-ephedrine: A chemical name sometimes used synonymously.
• Decongestant (n): A general class of drugs for relieving nasal congestion, which phenylpropanolamine belonged to.
• Anorectic or Anorexiant (n): A type of drug that suppresses appetite, one of the former uses of phenylpropanolamine.

Synonyms

• Adrenergic agonist: A technical term for drugs that stimulate adrenergic receptors.
• Nasal decongestant: Describes its primary former therapeutic use.

Notes on Meaning

• Historical Drug: It is crucial to note that phenylpropanolamine is largely discussed as a drug of the past in consumer medicine. Its mention often relates to its recall and discontinued status.
• Safety Warning: In modern context, the word is strongly associated with drug safety alerts. It is not a current recommendation for treating conditions.

Noun

1. an adrenergic drug used in many preparations to relieve allergic reactions or respiratory infections
   • drugs containing phenylpropanolamine are being recalled