Can You Take Tylenol Sinus With Imitrex?

In our latest question and answer, our pharmacist discusses whether or not Tylenol Sinus interacts with Imitrex (sumatriptan).

Question

Can I take Tylenol Sinus in addition to generic Imitrex? I have a headache and my sinuses hurt. I have no fever or green mucus, just sinus pressure. I already took two Imitrex today. The pain is much better but still have sinus pressure. Can I now take a Tylenol Sinus pill?

Asked by Rosemarie On Dec 04, 2022

Answered by
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist Staff

Published Dec 06, 2022
Last updated Apr 15, 2025

Key points

  • There is no known drug interaction between Tylenol Sinus (acetaminophen; guaifenesin; phenylephrine) and Imitrex (sumatriptan).
  • It is important to note that both phenylephrine, the decongestant in Tylenol Sinus, and Imitrex need to be used cautiously in those diagnosed with certain cardiovascular conditions, such as high blood pressure.

Answer

There is no known drug interaction between Tylenol Sinus (acetaminophen; guaifenesin; phenylephrine) and Imitrex (sumatriptan). They are considered safe to take together.

In fact, in your situation, the combination may be beneficial. Imitrex does of course help relieve some of the symptoms of migraine, but it does not relieve sinus pressure. Taking a nasal decongestant in this regard will help.

I do think it's important to mention, however, that Imitrex and the nasal decongestant in Tylenol Sinus, phenylephrine, need to be used cautiously if you have high blood pressure or other heart conditions.

Both drugs can cause mild increases in blood pressure and put you more at risk for cardiovascular complications if you have pre-existing conditions.

So, even though there is no drug interaction here in that they don't affect one another, they do share that precaution and is good to know about.

About Imitrex

Imitrex (sumatriptan) is used to treat the symptoms of migraine headaches. It is in a class of medications called selective serotonin receptor agonists (Triptans) and works by narrowing blood vessels in the head, stopping pain signals from being sent to the brain, and blocking the release of certain natural substances that cause pain, nausea, and other symptoms of migraine.

Imitrex is one of many drugs in the 'Triptan' class, and we have previously written a comparison article if you are interested in checking that out.

Triptan drugs, like Imitrex, are well tolerated, but, as mentioned, need to be used cautiously in those with cardiovascular conditions.

About Tylenol Sinus Severe

Tylenol Sinus Severe contains three drugs:

  • Acetaminophen
  • Guaifenesin
  • Phenylephrine

Acetaminophen is an analgesic and the active ingredient in Tylenol.

Guaifenesin is an expectorant, which helps to thin and loosen mucus secretions.

Phenylephrine is a nasal decongestant, similar to pseudoephedrine. Like 'Triptan' drugs, decongestants need to be used cautiously in those with cardiovascular conditions, especially if someone is also taking other drugs that may affect those conditions (e.g., if they are already taking a medication that can increase blood pressure).

Final Words

Thanks for reaching out and please do so again soon!

References

  • Phenylephrine Monograph, PubChem
  • Sumatriptan Monograph, PubChem
  • Triptans in migraine: the risks of stroke, cardiovascular disease, and death in practice, PubMed
  • Decongestant use and the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke: a case-crossover study, PubMed
  • [Malignant hypertension and cardiac decompensation after overuse of nasal decongestant: A case report and literature review], PubMed

About the Pharmacist

Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

Dr. Brian has been practicing pharmacy for over 13 years and has wide-ranging experiences in many different areas of the profession. From retail, clinical, program development, and administrative responsibilities, he's your knowledgeable and go-to source for all your pharmacy and medication-related questions! Dr. Brian Staiger also has herbalist training and educational certificates in the field of medical ethnobotany. Feel free to send him an email at [email protected]! You can also connect with Dr. Brian Staiger on LinkedIn.

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