Only phenylephrine itself is active as an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist that can tackle the dilation of nasal blood vessels that is a major feature of nasal congestion; its metabolites are not.

Epinephrine 0.15mg (1:2000); prefilled auto-injector; contains sulfites. Epinephrine acts on both alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors. Through its action on alpha-adrenergic receptors ...