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SENSORY ORGANS › OPHTHALMOLOGICALS › DECONGESTANTS AND ANTIALLERGICS › Sympathomimetics used as decongestants
xylometazoline
S01GA03
Forms & Strengths
- Nasal spray 0.05%
- Nasal spray 0.1%
- Nasal drops 0.05%
- Nasal drops 0.1%
Adult Dosing
- Nasal congestion: 1-2 sprays or drops of 0.1% solution into each nostril every 8-10 hours as needed
- Limit use to maximum 3-5 consecutive days to prevent rhinitis medicamentosa
Pediatric Dosing
- Children 2 to 12 years: 1-2 drops or sprays of 0.05% solution into each nostril every 8-10 hours as needed
- Children under 2 years: Contraindicated or not recommended
- Limit use to maximum 3-5 consecutive days
Indications
- Symptomatic relief of nasal congestion associated with acute rhinitis, sinusitis, common cold, or allergic rhinitis
Mechanism of Action
- Directly stimulates alpha-adrenergic receptors on blood vessels of the nasal mucosa
- Produces vasoconstriction, reducing blood flow and decreasing nasal congestion and mucosal edema
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to xylometazoline or any component of the formulation
- Patients with narrow-angle glaucoma
- History of transsphenoidal hypophysectomy or surgery exposing the dura mater
- Atrophic rhinitis
Adverse Reactions
- Transient burning, stinging, or dryness of the nasal mucosa
- Sneezing
- Rebound nasal congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa) with prolonged use (>3-5 days)
- Systemic effects (rare): headache, dizziness, insomnia, palpitations, hypertension
Drug Interactions
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Concomitant use may precipitate severe hypertensive crisis
- Tricyclic antidepressants: May potentiate the pressor effects of sympathomimetic amines
- Other sympathomimetic decongestants: Increased risk of additive adverse cardiovascular and CNS effects
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use