CVS pulls phenylephrine-based decongestants amid controversy over ingredient efficacy - IndiaTimes

In a significant move, CVS Health, one of the largest pharmacy chains in the United States, has chosen to remove certain common decongestant products from its store shelves, reported Reuters. The decision, made public on Thursday, comes in the wake of recent determinations by advisors to U.S. health regulators that a key ingredient in these products is ineffective. The ingredient in question is oral phenylephrine, a compound with a history dating back almost a century, commonly found in decongestants, over-the-counter pills, syrups, and liquids used to relieve nasal congestion.
Last month, an advisory panel to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) concluded that oral phenylephrine was not effective when taken in this form. While the FDA stated that oral phenylephrine formulations were safe, it also acknowledged their lack of effectiveness even at standard or higher doses.
CVS Health, in light of these developments, has decided to voluntarily remove products containing oral phenylephrine from its shelves. This marks a significant step, as the FDA has not yet issued a final decision on the matter, nor has it required manufacturers or retailers to discontinue the sale of such products.
The move has drawn attention to the ongoing debate surrounding the effectiveness of oral over-the-counter (OTC) medications containing phenylephrine, which is widely used in cold and cough syrups. The FDA is currently considering its position and plans to seek public opinion before making a final decision.
In a statement, CVS Health emphasized its commitment to providing safe and effective products to its customers. "Other oral cough and cold products will continue to be offered to meet consumer needs," CVS stated, ensuring that consumers will still have access to a variety of alternatives.
Rival pharmacy chain Walgreens has also weighed in on the matter, confirming that it follows FDA regulations and is actively monitoring the situation. It remains to be seen how this decision by CVS Health will impact the availability and use of products containing phenylephrine, such as Benadryl, Kenvue's Tylenol, and GSK's Advil, all of which are prominent cough and cold syrups sold in the U.S.

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CVS pulls phenylephrine-based decongestants amid controversy over ingredient efficacy - IndiaTimes
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