Sudafed contain pseudoephedrine hydrochloride. Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride is a local blood vessel constrictor (decongestive) used for temporary relief of a stuffy nose and sinuses that often procedes a cold, sinus inflammation, or allergies such as hay fever.

According to your symptoms (chronic blocked nose), it seems that you may be experiencing chronic inflammation of the nose (rhinitis), sinuses (sinusitis), and upper pharynx (naso-pharyngitis). Reasons for chronic inflammation can include: an allergy, chronic infection, chronic irritation, or any combination among them. Chronic inflammation can cause the formation of nasal polyps.

Local decongestants, like Sudafed, do not treat the condition but only temporarily relieve nasal stiffness (congestion). They should be not used for more than 7 days. Local decongestants are very effective in cases of acute inflammation and help to overcome the condition more easily. In cases of chronic inflammation, local decongestants are not as useful. In time, their effect becomes weaker and if used longer than 7 days they can cause mucosal atrophy.

There is also a so called "rebound effect" to consider in your case. When the body comes off a medicine, the symptoms of a disease can become even more severe than before use of the medicine. This can appear to be addiction but it is not classified as a diagnostic addiction like opiate addiction, for instance. Substance addictions are attributed to the drug itself while in cases like yours, the real problem is caused by another pre-existing disease (chronic inflammation).

Finding and avoiding the provoker of the chronic inflammation is the course you can focus on. I n most cases, the reason for inflammation like yours is unknown. Local corticosteroids are very useful in treating chronic allergic nasal inflammations. Antihistamines are also useful. If there is an infection, antibiotics are necessary. In case of existing nasal polyps, surgery is requested.

You can visit an ENT-specialist for proper examination and treatment.

I am also addicted to sudafed. However, I am more addicted to the feeling of it. It helps me sleep, makes me very sexually active, and gives me a general feeling of well-being sort of like Adderall or Ritalin. I am concerned about the effects that can occur after the 7 day time period. Any ideas? BTW, I am also an opiate addict on Suboxone maintenance.

That is strange that you are an opiate addict that also enjoys the high of sudafed... usually people have a strong preference for downers or uppers. I would say that maybe you have ADD/ADHD (because it helps you sleep, when it should be having the opposite effect). However, my advice is no substitute for that of a doctor i only work at a where we see lots of cases like yours. Get checked out by a doc!