Allergy Drugs: Nasal Decongestants
Oxymetazoline (Afrin)
Phenylephrine nasal (4-Way Fast Acting, Afrin Children’s Pump Mist, Ah-chew D, Little Colds, Little Noses Gentle Formula, Infants & Children, Neo-Synephrine 4-Hour, Rhinall,Vicks Sinex Ultra Fine Mist)
Nasal Decongestants
HOW DO THESE DRUGS WORK?
Nasal decongestants are sprayed directly into the nose to constrict blood vessels. Therefore, when you use a nasal decongestant, the blood vessels in your nose tighten, causing the linings of your nose to be less swollen. This makes your nose feel less stuffy.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
Decreased nasal congestion within a short period of time (a few minutes).
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Burning, stinging, dryness, or irritation of the nose.
MAJOR CAUTIONS
- Dizziness
- Fainting spells
- Difficulty breathing
- Irregular heartbeat
- Palpitations
- Chest pain
- Swelling of the inside of the nose
KNOWN DRUG INTERACTIONS
- Atropine
- Bromocriptine (Parlodel)
- Linezolid (Zyvox)
- Maprotiline (Ludiomil)
- Antidepressants
- Migraine medications
- High blood pressure medications
- Oxytocin
- Vasopressin
- Diuretic medications
FOOD OR SUPPLEMENT INTERACTIONS
None known.
NUTRIENT DEPLETION/IMBALANCE
None known.