Oxymetazoline: Uses,Dosage,Side Effects

Generic Name
Oxymetazoline
Therapeutic Group: Respiratory (Nasal Anti-histamine preparations, Nasal Decongestants & Other Nasal Preparations)

Indications:
Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride is applied topically to relieve nasal congestion associated with acute or chronic rhinitis, common cold, sinusitis, and hay fever, or other allergies. It is also used as a nasal decongestant in otitis media.

Presentation:
Oxymetazoline 0.05% Nasal Drop: Each ml contains 0.05 mg of Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride BP.
Oxymetazoline 0.025% Nasal Drop (For Children): Each ml contains 0.025 mg of Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride BP.
Oxymetazoline Nasal Spray: Each actuation delivers Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride BP 25 mcg.

Description:
Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride is an imidazoline derivative sympathomimetic amine. It directly stimulates alpha-adrenergic receptors of the sympathetic nervous system. Intranasal application of oxymetazoline results in constriction of dilated arterioles and reduction in nasal blood flow and congestion.

Dosage & Administration:
Oxymetazoline nasal spray-
  • Adults and children (6 years of age and older): 2 or 3 sprays in each nostril twice daily for 3-5 days.
  • Elderly: There is no need for dosage reduction in the elderly for nasal administration.
  • Children below 6 years of age: It is not suitable for children below 6 years of age.
Oxymetazoline nasal drop-
  • Adults & children 6 years of age: 2-3 drops of 0.05% Nasal Drops in each nostril twice daily in the morning and evening.
  • Children 2-5 years of age: 2-3 drops of 0.025% Nasal Drops in each nostril twice daily in the morning and evening.
Administration
Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride Nasal preparation is recommended for intranasal use only. It should be used for no longer than 5 days.

How to use Oxymetazoline nasal spray-
Step 01: Remove the dust cover cap
Step 02: During application, tilt your head slightly forward and keep the container upright then use the nasal spray
Step 03: After each use, gently wipe the spray tip with a clean & soft cloth or tissue paper. Finally set the dust cover cap in the previous place

Side Effects:
  • Transient burning, dryness of the nasal mucosa, sneezing.
  • Nervousness, dizziness, headache.
  • Hypertension, palpitation, or reflex bradycardia.

Precautions:
  • Prolonged use may result in rebound congestion.
  • Since oxymetazoline has systemic adverse effects, it should be used with caution in patients with
  • hypertension, cardiovascular disease, or hyperthyroidism or in those receiving MAO inhibitors.
Use in Pregnancy & Lactation:
Pregnancy: Safe use of oxymetazoline during pregnancy has not been established; it should be avoided by pregnant women.
Nursing Mother: It is not known whether oxymetazoline is secreted in human breast milk; caution is advised.

Interaction:
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Concomitant use of oxymetazoline and MAOI can result in
hypertensive reactions. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs): TCAs may increase the effects of
oxymetazoline on blood pressure.

Overdose:
Following a proper application, systemic action is unlikely. If, however, some of the drops are swallowed, a systemic effect can be produced. Symptoms include rapid, irregular heartbeat, headache, dizziness, increased sweating, nervousness. Such symptoms are more likely to be seen in young children.

Storage:
Keep below 30° C temperature in a dry place, protect from light. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Keep out of the reach of children.
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