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Oxymetazoline nasal spray relieves sinus pressure

The spray, a nasal decongestant that narrows the nasal passage blood vessels, relieves sinus pressure and congestion, and nasal discomfort due to hay fever, allergies and colds. However, the patients under 6 years of age should not use the spray without prescription. Supervision is required in case the patients belong to the 6-12 age group.

How to use it
  • The spray should not be administered more than twice in 24 hours.
  • Read the prescription and / or instructions on the label of the spray. If the instructions are not clear to you, do consult the physician or the pharmacist.
  • The amount of spray used should neither be more than the quantity prescribed by the physician nor less. If you do not follow the physician’s recommendations for the spray quantity and duration, sinus pressure and other symptoms may exacerbate.
  • Stop using the spray after three days. If symptoms do fade, consult the physician.
  • Liquid / solution of oxymetazoline is sprayed into the patient’s nose.
  • Do not gulp the spray. Just use it for the nose.
  • Wash the spray dispenser tip nicely after every use. The same dispenser should not be used by more than one patient to avoid spread of the infection.
  • If you are allergic to oxymetazoline, inform your physician.
  • Since some medicines may interact with the spray, tell your physician about the medicines you are taking for any other ailment. The expectant and breast feeding ladies should not use the spray without consulting the physician.
Side effects
The spray has some side effects too. For instance, the spray may cause
  • burning,
  • dizziness,
  • dryness within the nose,
  • headache,
  • increase in nasal discharge,
  • nausea,
  • nervousness,
  • sleep problems,
  • sneezing and
  • stinging.
Sometimes the spray may increase or decrease the heartbeat. In such situations, see the physician at the earliest.
Spray brands
The spray is sold under different brand names, including Afrin® Nasal Spray, Dristan® Nasal Spray, Nostrilla® Nasal Spray and Zicam® Nasal Spray.
What is oxymetazoline?
The synthetic adrenergic agonist acts directly and stimulates alpha one and two adrenergic receptors. The vasoconstrictor is also used for the eye drops that treat redness due to contact lens, colds or swimming. The systemic circulation absorbs the agonist. Since the agonist stimulates the receptors present in the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), the nasal passages’ arterioles constrict and dry the mucous membrane.