Dangerous, Sinutab will have to be issued on prescription: “There is misuse of this medication”, points out an ENT at the Saint-Luc clinics

“It is a medicine which will act on decongestion of the nose and will allow you to breathe better. It is the conjunction of two molecules: paracetamol and pseudoephedrine. The latter will go throughout the body because it is taken by oral route It can cause a lot of side effects: stroke, heart attack, sleep disturbance, impact in people with glaucoma, who have urinary retention… You should not take too much but there is a problem. abusive use and Sinutab is over the counter”indicates Professor Rombaux, ENT at the Saint-Luc clinics. It is not to be taken by pregnant women, small children and the elderly.

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Test-Purchasing does not just target Sinutab but wishes to remove from the market any drug combining both pseudoephedrine and paracetamol. Sinutab Forte (Johnson & Johnson), ParasinEG (EG), and Therafixx-Capitanasal (Haleon) are also targeted. “Pseudoephedrine may increase blood pressure. It has been under close surveillance by the European Medicines Agency since January 2024. France banned this molecule last year.adds Charlotte d’Huart, general practitioner, who supports Testachats’ request.

From November 1, the Federal Agency for Medicines and Health Products (FAMHP) will make access to Sinutab conditional on the presentation of a medical prescription. The measure convinces Professor Rombaux. “Sinutab does not kill people, it must remain on the market. But there is misuse and overdose. It’s not stupid to link it to medical prescription.”