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RESPIRATORY SYSTEM › NASAL PREPARATIONS › DECONGESTANTS AND OTHER NASAL PREPARATIONS FOR TOPICAL USE › Sympathomimetics, combinations excl. corticosteroids
oxymetazoline
R01AB07
Forms & Strengths
- Nasal spray: 0.025%
- Nasal spray: 0.05%
- Nasal drops: 0.025%
- Ophthalmic solution: 0.025%
Adult Dosing
- Nasal congestion: 2-3 sprays of 0.05% solution in each nostril every 12 hours as needed; limit use to 3-5 consecutive days.
- Ocular redness: 1 drop in the affected eye(s) up to 4 times daily as needed.
Pediatric Dosing
- Children 6 to 12 years: 2-3 sprays of 0.025% solution in each nostril every 12 hours; limit use to 3-5 days.
- Children under 6 years: Not recommended for nasal use without direct medical supervision.
Indications
- Nasal congestion associated with acute or chronic rhinitis, common cold, sinusitis, or hay fever.
- Relief of ocular redness due to minor eye irritations.
Mechanism of Action
- Direct-acting alpha-1 and alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist.
- Causes constriction of arterioles in the nasal mucosa and conjunctiva, reducing blood flow and decreasing fluid exudation and congestion.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to oxymetazoline or any component of the formulation.
- Concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of cessation.
- Narrow-angle glaucoma (for ophthalmic use).
Adverse Reactions
- Transient stinging, burning, or dryness of the nasal mucosa.
- Sneezing.
- Rebound nasal congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa) with prolonged use exceeding 3-5 days.
- Systemic effects (rare, with excessive use): hypertension, tachycardia, palpitations, nervousness, headache.
Drug Interactions
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Risk of severe hypertensive crisis due to potentiation of pressor effects.
- Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs): May potentiate the pressor effects of oxymetazoline.
- Beta-blockers: Potential for acute hypertension followed by bradycardia.
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use