FDA-filed SPL labeling · retrieved through openFDA

Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine

Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine is a combination pain reliever and nasal decongestant used across multiple products to treat headache, fever, sinus pressure, nasal congestion, and minor body aches associated with the common cold or flu.

Brand names Advil Sinus Congestion And PainSudafed PE Head Congestion Plus PainCongestion ReliefEqualine congestion reliefAdvil Sinus Congestion and Pain Relief +2 more
Drug class ⓘ Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug
OTC Form 1 Route Oral
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS
Reviewed by Last reviewed Jul 19, 2026
🧬 Where this information comes from Click to expand

The clinical label records used on this page are FDA-filed Structured Product Labeling (SPL) retrieved through openFDA. We identified 7 clinical label sets within the page’s selected clinical scope after exact ingredient or ingredient-combination matching and applicable route/form matching. Forms, routes, brands, labelers, strengths, and NDC product-record counts are built separately from matching FDA National Drug Code Directory records. The linked DailyMed document is a representative official source for verification, not the page’s only clinical source. View the linked label on DailyMed →

At a glance
Linked label effectiveJul 22, 2025
Clinical labels in scope ⓘ7
AvailabilityOTC
Earliest approval/marketing year ⓘ2014
FDA-listed product records ⓘ16
Boxed warningNone found in compared labels
How we combine label and product data →
✓No current FDA shortage listed · checked Sep 27, 2026
⭐ Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine at a glance The quick version — the full detail is in the Patient Information Guide below.
💊
HelloPharmacist Editorial Team Bottom Line
Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine is a convenient combination for tackling multiple cold and flu symptoms — sinus congestion, headache, fever, and body aches — at the same time. Use only as directed, do not exceed the recommended daily limit, and stop use if pain or congestion doesn't improve within the recommended timeframe. People with heart disease, stomach ulcer history, high blood pressure, or who take certain prescription drugs should check with their doctor before using it.

📖 Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine: Patient Information Guide

A plain-language walkthrough of Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine — what it treats, how it works, how it’s taken, side effects, warnings and interactions. Tap any section to expand it.

🎯What it's used for▾

Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine products are used to relieve multiple cold and flu symptoms at once. The following uses are supported across the available products:

  • Temporarily relieves headache associated with the common cold or flu
  • Reduces fever
  • Relieves sinus pressure
  • Relieves nasal congestion
  • Eases minor body aches and pains
  • Reduces swelling of the nasal passages
  • Temporarily restores freer breathing through the nose
💊How it's taken▾

All supported products are taken by mouth. Adults and children 12 and older take one tablet (or caplet, in the case of Sudafed PE Head Congestion Plus Pain) every 4 hours while symptoms persist.

  • Do not take more than 6 tablets or caplets in any 24-hour period unless a doctor says otherwise
  • Children under 12 should not use any of these products
  • If your stomach gets upset, take the tablet with food or milk

Always follow the directions on the specific product you are using, and check with your prescriber or pharmacist if you have questions about your regimen.

🤒Side effects — in detail▾

These products can cause some side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Common ones to be aware of include:

  • Stomach upset or nausea
  • Nervousness or feeling jittery
  • Dizziness
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Skin rash or redness

More serious reactions — including signs of stomach bleeding (vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, stomach pain that won't go away), severe allergic reactions (hives, facial swelling, wheezing, blisters), or signs of a heart attack or stroke (chest pain, trouble breathing, sudden weakness, slurred speech) — require you to stop use immediately and get emergency medical help.

⚠️Warnings & precautions▾
  • Heart attack and stroke risk: NSAIDs like ibuprofen (except aspirin) can increase the risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke — including fatal events. This risk is higher when used above the recommended dose or for longer than directed.
  • Serious stomach bleeding: This product can cause severe stomach bleeding. Risk is higher in people 60 or older, those with a history of ulcers or bleeding, people taking blood thinners or steroids, those using other NSAIDs, and people who drink 3 or more alcoholic beverages daily.
  • Severe allergic reactions: Ibuprofen can trigger a serious allergic reaction — especially in people allergic to aspirin. Signs include hives, facial swelling, wheezing, blistering, rash, or shock. Stop use and get emergency help if these occur.
  • Do not use before or after heart surgery.
  • Pregnancy: Avoid ibuprofen during the last 3 months of pregnancy unless a doctor specifically directs its use — it can cause problems for the unborn baby or complications during delivery.
🔀What it interacts with▾

This combination can interact with several drugs and substances. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before combining it with:

  • MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) — used for depression or Parkinson's disease: do not take together or within 2 weeks of stopping an MAOI
  • Aspirin taken to prevent heart attack or stroke: ibuprofen may reduce aspirin's protective effect
  • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) and steroid drugs: raise the risk of serious stomach bleeding
  • Other NSAIDs (naproxen, other ibuprofen products, aspirin as a pain reliever): increases stomach bleeding risk
  • Other phenylephrine products or nasal decongestants: do not use together
  • Diuretics (water pills): ask a doctor before combining
  • Alcohol: 3 or more drinks per day while using this product significantly raises stomach bleeding risk

This is not a complete list of interactions. Always talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

📋Before taking it▾
  • Children under 12 should not use these products — the dose is too high for them
  • Tell your doctor if you have or have had stomach ulcers, stomach bleeding, or heartburn
  • Ask a doctor first if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, or a history of stroke
  • Ask a doctor first if you have liver cirrhosis or kidney disease
  • Ask a doctor first if you have asthma, thyroid disease, or diabetes
  • Ask a doctor first if you have an enlarged prostate gland that makes urinating difficult
  • If you are pregnant — especially in the last 3 months — ask a health professional before use
  • If you are breastfeeding, ask a health professional before use
  • Tell your pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter drugs you take before using this product
🚑If you take too much▾

If you or someone else takes too much of this product, get medical help or contact Poison Control right away at 1-800-222-1222. Act quickly — do not wait for symptoms to appear.

📦How to store it▾

store between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Avoid excessive heat above 40°C (104°F).

📄 Written from Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine’s FDA-approved label information, summarized in plain language with AI, and reviewed by our pharmacy team before publication. Every point is grounded in that labeling — nothing is invented. How we use AI →

🩺 Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Quick, plain-English answers to the questions patients ask most about Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine — the kind of thing our pharmacy team would talk through with you at the counter.

What exactly does this medicine do — why does it have two ingredients? ▾
Good question. The two ingredients work on different parts of your cold symptoms. Ibuprofen is a pain reliever and fever reducer, so it handles the headache, body aches, and fever. Phenylephrine is a nasal decongestant — it helps shrink swollen tissue in your nasal passages so you can breathe more freely. Together, they tackle several miserable cold and flu symptoms at once instead of you needing two separate products.
How often can I take it, and is there a maximum per day? ▾
You can take one tablet every 4 hours while your symptoms are present. The limit is 6 tablets in any 24-hour period — don't go over that unless your doctor specifically tells you to. And if your pain, fever, or congestion isn't improving after 7 days (or your fever hasn't gone down in 3 days), that's a sign to stop and call your doctor rather than keep taking it.
Should I take it with food? ▾
You don't have to, but if the tablet bothers your stomach, take it with food or a glass of milk. That usually settles things down. Stomach upset is one of the more common complaints with ibuprofen-containing products, so eating something beforehand is a smart move if you have a sensitive stomach.
I take a baby aspirin every day for my heart — is it okay to use this? ▾
This is really important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about before you use it. Ibuprofen can actually reduce the heart-protective effect of your daily low-dose aspirin, which could work against what that aspirin is doing for you. Your doctor may be able to suggest a better option for your cold symptoms that won't interfere with your aspirin therapy.
I'm pregnant — can I take this? ▾
You should ask your doctor or a healthcare professional before taking this during pregnancy. It's especially important to avoid ibuprofen during the last 3 months of pregnancy — it can cause problems for your baby or complications during delivery. Play it safe and check in with your provider first, especially if you're further along in your pregnancy.
What side effects should make me stop and call for help? ▾
Most people tolerate this medicine fine, but stop use right away and get emergency help if you notice any of these: hives, facial swelling, wheezing, or blistering (signs of a serious allergic reaction); chest pain, sudden weakness on one side, or slurred speech (possible heart attack or stroke); or vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, or stomach pain that won't quit (signs of internal bleeding). For milder things like nervousness, dizziness, or trouble sleeping, stop use and call your doctor if they bother you.
Is Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine available over the counter? ▾
Yes — Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine is available over the counter (without a prescription) in at least some forms, according to its FDA labeling. Follow the package directions and ask your pharmacist if you're unsure which product is right for you.
When was Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine first available? ▾
Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine has been available in the United States since at least 2014, based on FDA approval history (Drugs@FDA) and product marketing records.
Who makes Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine? ▾
Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine is supplied by 13 manufacturers listed in the FDA NDC Directory, including GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Holdings (US) LLC, Navajo Manufacturing Company Inc., Haleon US Holdings LLC.

💬 Answers drafted from Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine’s FDA-approved label information, summarized in plain language with AI, and reviewed by our pharmacy team before publication. Grounded in that labeling — nothing is made up. How we use AI →

🧰 Keep exploring

💊 How Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine comes

Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine is available in 1 form. Different forms and brands can have different approved uses, doses, schedules, and directions. Follow the instructions for your exact product, and do not switch forms without guidance from your prescriber or pharmacist.

Tablet

By mouth
Brands Advil Sinus Congestion And Pain Advil Sinus Congestion and Pain Relief Congestion Relief Equaline congestion relief Sinus Congestion And Pain Sudafed PE Head Congestion Plus Pain Walprofen Congestion Relief And Pain
How this form is used
What it may be used for
  • Temporarily relieves headache, fever, sinus pressure, nasal congestion, and minor body aches associated with the common cold or flu
  • Reduces swelling of the nasal passages and temporarily restores freer breathing through the nose
Important instructions
  • Advil Sinus Congestion And Pain, Advil Sinus Congestion and Pain Relief: adults and children 12 and over take 1 coated tablet every 4 hours while symptoms persist; do not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours unless directed by a doctor
  • Sudafed PE Head Congestion Plus Pain: adults and children 12 and over take 1 caplet every 4 hours while symptoms persist; do not exceed 6 caplets in 24 hours unless directed by a doctor
  • Congestion Relief and Equaline congestion relief: adults and children 12 and over take 1 film-coated tablet every 4 hours while symptoms persist; do not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours unless directed by a doctor
  • Take with food or milk if stomach upset occurs; do not use in children under 12
Available strengths 1 strength
16 FDA-listed product records ⓘ

📊 Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine across the U.S. market

How Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine appears in the FDA’s National Drug Code Directory — including its dosage forms, strengths, brand names, manufacturers, and FDA-listed product records. These are directory records, not sales or prescription volume.

1
Dose forms ⓘ
13
Manufacturers
7
Brand names
16
FDA-listed product records ⓘ
2014
First marketed ⓘ
GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Holdings (US) LLC13%
Navajo Manufacturing Company Inc.13%
Haleon US Holdings LLC13%
Walgreen Company6%
H E B6%
Supervalu Inc6%
Other makers44%

Share of FDA-listed product records by manufacturer — FDA National Drug Code Directory. Record counts are not sales or prescription volume.

🔍 Compare Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine products

A representative set of FDA-listed product records for Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine — across manufacturers, strengths, and dosage forms, grouped by form with each product’s manufacturer and how the FDA approved it. The same medicine may be made and packaged by different companies, so a single drug can have many directory entries. (It’s also why a refill can look different — a new shape, color, or box — even though it contains the same medication.)

Showing 16 of 16 products — FDA National Drug Code Directory. See every product, package size and price: browse all 16 Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine NDCs →

RxNorm Concept Web — From Ingredient to Every Form and Strength

This page starts with one exact multiple-ingredient concept (MIN). The branches below show its dose-form concepts (SCDF), then the available clinical drug and strength concepts (SCD). A product with a different ingredient combination belongs on a different page.

Multiple ingredients (MIN) Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine RxCUI 1007329 1 dose form · 1 strength

Look up RxCUI 1007329 in the RxCUI Atlas →

RxNorm is the U.S. National Library of Medicine’s normalized drug vocabulary. Its concept hierarchy can include forms that are not currently marketed; the status on each branch compares that concept with current FDA listings. RxCUIs identify vocabulary concepts, not individual packages or manufacturers.

🏷️ Sold under these brand names

Advil Sinus Congestion And Pain Sudafed PE Head Congestion Plus Pain Congestion Relief Equaline congestion relief Advil Sinus Congestion and Pain Relief walprofen congestion relief and pain sinus congestion and pain

🏭 Manufacturers & labelers

GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Holdings (US) LLC 2 Navajo Manufacturing Company Inc. 2 Haleon US Holdings LLC 2 Walgreen Company 1 H E B 1 Supervalu Inc 1 Meijer Distribution Inc 1 Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc., McNeil Consumer Healthcare Division 1 Select Corporation 1 Rite Aid Corporation 1 United Natural Foods, Inc. dba UNFI 1 Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. 1 Kenvue Brands LLC 1

RxNorm drug class

Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine belongs to the Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug class.

Pharmacologic class Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug
Drug family (ATC) Other cardiac preparations, Antiinflammatory products for vaginal administration, Propionic acid derivatives
How it works Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors

Classified by RxNorm RxClass — the U.S. National Library of Medicine's standardized drug-classification service (Established Pharmacologic Class from the FDA, the ATC drug family from the WHO, and mechanism of action). Reference only, not medical advice.

🔬 Where this comes from

Core label, product, RxNorm, safety, and utilization data on this page come from the sources identified below. AI-written, editorial, and licensed sections are labeled separately.

📄
FDA-filed drug labels (SPL) Uses, dosing, warnings & side effects from SPL records retrieved through openFDA; the linked representative set can be verified on DailyMed. ✓ Linked label effective Jul 22, 2025
🏭
Forms, brands & labelersAggregated from ingredient-matched FDA National Drug Code Directory product records for Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine.
📈
Real-world reportsThe FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS), served through openFDA.
🚨
Recalls & shortagesopenFDA drug-enforcement reports and the FDA drug-shortage database.
🧾 Clinical label set — FDA-filed SPL labels retained for Ibuprofen / Phenylephrine after exact ingredient or ingredient-combination matching and applicable route/form matching
Clinical labels in scope
7
NDC products indexed
16
Distinct labelers/manufacturers represented
13
Linked representative label ⓘ
GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Holdings (US) LLC
Linked label effective
Jul 22, 2025
Composite sections available
7
Linked SPL Set ID
b1e29c19-fe03-4d2b-b966-0adf4eb4b4cf
Linked SPL Document ID
3a894971-32f7-0c16-e063-6294a90aa8d9
Open the linked representative label on DailyMed ↗

How we combine label and product data

HelloPharmacist combines public FDA and NLM records; we don’t author the underlying clinical facts. We identified 7 FDA-filed SPL label sets within the page’s selected clinical scope after exact ingredient or ingredient-combination matching and applicable route/form matching. The representative label is the starting point for the displayed reference monograph; the 12 largest stored in-scope SPL records, which may include that representative, are compared section by section, and the longest available version of each section is retained. Forms, routes, brands, labelers, product-listed strengths, and product-record counts are aggregated separately from ingredient-matched FDA NDC Directory records; package records listed above are associated with the linked SPL; and the normalized concept hierarchy comes from NLM RxNorm.

For canonical ingredient pages, bounded product-attributed indication and administration excerpts may be added to the AI evidence, and the generator is instructed to preserve available product, brand, route, and form qualifiers instead of treating one label as universal. Where a section is identified as AI-written, its plain-language text is generated from bounded label evidence. New draft drug pages remain in the admin review queue before first publication. GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Holdings (US) LLC is the representative DailyMed label linked for verification and dates; it is not the sole source used for the page.

This is general education, not medical advice — always consult your doctor or pharmacist about your medications and any medical condition. For the exact wording of the linked representative label, view that label on DailyMed; some displayed composite sections may come from other in-scope SPL labels. Learn how we use AI and our data sources & update cadence.