phenylephrine hydrochloride /-ef′rēn/ , an alpha-adrenergic agonist. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed for maintenance of blood pressure and is used locally as a nasal or ophthalmic vasoconstrictor. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Narrow-angle glaucoma, concomitant administration of monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse effects to the systemic administration of this drug are arrhythmias and an excessive rise in blood pressure. Anxiety, congestion, and hypersensitivity reactions may result from local administration.
