Decongestant: FSA Eligibility

Decongestants are over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that require a prescription for reimbursement through a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA) or a health reimbursement arrangement (HRA). Decongestants are not eligible for reimbursement with a limited care flexible spending account (LCFSA) or a dependent care flexible spending account (DCFSA).

What is a decongestant?

Decongestants are OTC medicines that are designed to relieve nasal congestion and other symptoms associated with common colds, flu and allergies. Decongestants are often used in combination medicines like cough syrups, nose sprays, inhalers or pills, often used in tandem with antihistamines, pain relievers or sleep aids to help individuals manage their symptoms. However, decongestants are also extremely effective as stand-alone products that are highly effective in combating nasal congestion (Patient).

How do decongestants work?

The most common active ingredients in decongestants are pseudoephedrine (commonly used in Sudafed) and phenylephrine, and they combat nasal congestion by constricting the blood vessels in the nose, throat and sinuses, which in turn reduces inflammation in these areas and jumpstarts mucous formation. By removing this pressure and improving the flow of air in the nasal passageways, this can allow users to breathe more sufficiently and more easily liquidate mucous from the nose, chest and throat to limit the duration of cold, flu or allergy symptoms (WebMD).

Why do decongestants require a prescription for reimbursement?



Eligibility Table



Eligible with Rx

Eligible with LMN

Not Eligible


Specifically Not Covered

Not eligible without a prescription.

Legal Information / Regulations


AZ-PROD-WEB01 11/20/2018 7:31:40 AM