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NOVAFED vs PSEUDOEPHEDRINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Independent side-by-side comparison.

Rated against independent regulatory sources·Last updated August 22, 2026·How we rate
novafedpseudoephedrine hydrochloride

Rating

70/100
New

Pharmacy pays

~$8.29 /30
~$8.29 /30

Type

RX
OTC

Active ingredient

PSEUDOEPHEDRINE HYDROCHLORIDE
PSEUDOEPHEDRINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Manufacturer

Sanofi Aventis US
Sun Pharm Inds Inc

Dosage forms

Capsule, extended release
Tablet, Tablet, extended release

Drug class

Alpha-Adrenergic Agonist
Alpha-Adrenergic Agonist

Boxed warning

None
None

Half-life

roughly 3 to 16 hours — the label does not give one number, because the elimination half-life depends on urine pH: about 3 to 6 hours when urine pH is 5 (acidic), and about 9 to 16 hours when urine pH is 8 (alkaline)
roughly 3 to 16 hours — the label does not give one number, because the elimination half-life depends on urine pH: about 3 to 6 hours when urine pH is 5 (acidic), and about 9 to 16 hours when urine pH is 8 (alkaline)

Treats

Asthma, Common Cold, Perennial Allergic Rhinitis
Asthma, Common Cold, Perennial Allergic Rhinitis

Get novafedhigher-rated option

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Frequently asked questions

Which is cheaper, Novafed or Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride?

Pharmacies pay about the same to acquire either one — roughly $8.29 for a 30-count supply, per the CMS NADAC survey. That is not what you will be charged: your price is set by your insurer and the pharmacy, not by what the drug cost them.

What is the difference between Novafed and Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride?

Both Novafed and Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride share the active ingredient Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride, but Novafed is sold as RX and Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride as OTC.

Ratings are based on FDA regulatory (recall-safety) data. This comparison is for general reference only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional before choosing or switching a medication.