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SENSORY ORGANS › OPHTHALMOLOGICALS › DECONGESTANTS AND ANTIALLERGICS › Sympathomimetics used as decongestants
tetryzoline
S01GA02
Forms & Strengths
- Ophthalmic solution 0.05% (0.5 mg/mL) in single-dose vials
- Ophthalmic solution 0.05% in multi-dose bottles with preservative
- Nasal spray 0.05% (0.5 mg per spray) in metered-dose pump
Adult Dosing
- Ocular: 1-2 drops per eye, up to 4 times daily (max 6 doses/24h)
- Nasal: 1-2 sprays per nostril, up to 3 times daily
Pediatric Dosing
- Ocular (age ≥2 yr): 1 drop per eye, max 3 times daily; not for infants <1 yr
- Nasal (age ≥2 yr): 1 spray per nostril, max 2 times daily; avoid in children <2 yr
Indications
- Relief of transient ocular redness (e.g., minor irritations, fatigue)
- Allergic conjunctivitis with mild hyperemia
- Nasal congestion due to common cold, sinusitis, or allergic rhinitis
Mechanism of Action
- Selective α1‑adrenergic agonist causing vasoconstriction of conjunctival and nasal mucosal arterioles
- Reduces blood flow → decreased hyperemia and edema
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to tetryzoline or formulation excipients
- Narrow‑angle (closed‑angle) glaucoma
- Severe uncontrolled hypertension
Adverse Reactions
- Ocular burning, stinging, dryness, transient blurred vision
- Rebound hyperemia (tachyphylaxis) with prolonged use
- Pupil dilation, increased intra‑ocular pressure
- Systemic: hypertension, tachycardia, palpitations (rare)
- Nasal: local irritation, epistaxis, rhinitis medicamentosa on chronic use
Drug Interactions
- MAO inhibitors – may potentiate hypertensive response
- Other topical α‑agonists or decongestants – additive vasoconstriction, increased risk of rebound
- Systemic sympathomimetics (e.g., pseudoephedrine) – additive cardiovascular effects
- Antihypertensive agents – possible attenuation of blood‑pressure‑lowering effect
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use