All of Bayer's Alka-Seltzer Plus products have been PPA-free since 2001.

Historically, phenylpropanolamine ("PPA") was used as a decongestant in many over-the-counter cough and cold medications, and in larger doses, as an appetite suppressant in over-the-counter diet drugs. Some of Bayer's Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold effervescent cough and cold medications were formulated with PPA as a decongestant at that time.

In November 2000, the FDA asked manufacturers to voluntarily cease marketing medications with PPA, after a study suggested that PPA, especially in larger doses such as in diet drugs, may be associated with strokes. In response to the FDA request, Bayer reformulated its PPA-containing Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold products with the decongestant phenylephrine. Phenylephrine helps restore free breathing by shrinking swollen nasal tissue and relieving sinus congestion. Accordingly, phenylephrine has been found a safe and effective alternative to PPA by the FDA.

For more information, please visit the FDA PPA Information Page: http://www.fda.gov/CDER/drug/infopage/ppa/