ORAL DECONGESTANTS
Pharmacological sinsuitis treatment
How do they work?
While their vasoconstriction effect is less than those of topical use, they act on both the nasal mucosa and the paranasal sinuses and do not produce any rebound effect. They are indicated when decongestants are needed for periods of more than one week, but their adverse effects must be taken into account.
- Phenylephrine: α1 adrenergic agonist found in many medicinal products that are recommended for colds.
- Pseudoephedrine: α1 adrenergic agonist and to a lesser extent β-receptor agonist.
It can be found in medicinal products as a single active substance or mixed with other substances indicated for colds.
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Phenylpropanolamine: Seldom used.What should be recommended for their proper use?:Medicinal products that include acetyl salicylic acid should be taken after meals with a sufficient amount of water.What situations may give rise to problems related to these medicinal products?
- There may be a worsening in the conditions of diabetic and hypertensive patients with glaucoma, heart diseases and hyperthyroidism.
- Warn the patient about driving and the use of machinery since these drugs may cause drowsiness
- Special vigilance should be employed with the elderly.
- Adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, dryness of mouth, nervousness, insomnia, tachycardia, high blood pressure, dyspnoea and urticary and exanthematic reactions.
Do these drugs interact with other medicinal products?Avoid the consumption of alcohol during treatment, as it boosts the sedative effect.