Larson Professor News Today

Dr. Barry Ramo explains alternatives to clearing your sinuses now that the FDA has says over-the-counter cold medicines don't work.

Phenylephrine is the main ingredient used in many common over-the-counter congestion products. It is safe to use, but an independent advisory committee to the FDA agreed Tuesday that it is ineffective in pill form. Other forms like nasal sprays are still believed to be effective.

An advisory committee to the FDA agreed this week that oral decongestant medications with phenylephrine are ineffective. Here is what we know about what does work.

An advisory committee to the FDA agreed this week that oral decongestant medications with phenylephrine are ineffective. Here is what we know about what does work.

(CNN) — Just in time for fall and winter sniffles, an advisory committee to the US Food and Drug Administration has decided that a popular ingredient in oral cold and