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Overview
Oxymetazoline is a nasal decongestant, opthalmologic agent that is FDA approved for the treatment of nasal congestion, ocular irritation in conjunctivitis. Common adverse reactions include headache, insomnia, feeling nervous, rebound nasal congestion, dry nasal mucosa , nasal stinging/burning, sneezing.
shrinks swollen nasal membranes so you can breathe more freely
Conjunctivitis, Ocular irritation
Dosing Information
For CONJUNCTIVITIS, the usual adult dose of oxymetazoline for adults and children 6 years old or greater is 1 to 2 drops of 0.025% ophthalmic solution instilled into the affected eye(s) every 6 hours.
Contact lens wear during ophthalmic use is not recommended
Nasal congestion
Dosing Information
For RHINITIS, the usual intranasal dose of oxymetazoline in adults and children 6 years old or greater is 2 to 3 drops or sprays of 0.05% solution in each nostril twice a day for up to 3 days
Off-Label Use and Dosage (Adult)
Guideline-Supported Use
There is limited information regarding Off-Label Guideline-Supported Use of Oxymetazoline in adult patients.
Non–Guideline-Supported Use
There is limited information regarding Off-Label Non–Guideline-Supported Use of Oxymetazoline in adult patients.
Pediatric Indications and Dosage
FDA-Labeled Indications and Dosage (Pediatric)
Conjunctivitis, Ocular irritation
Nasal congestion
Dosing Information
For RHINITIS, the usual dose of oxymetazoline in children 2 to 5 years old is 2 to 3 drops of a 0.025% solution in each nostril twice a day for up to 3 days. Drops are preferred to spray dosage forms since dosage can be more easily controlled with the former.
Use should be limited to less than 5 days to minimize occurrence of rebound congestion.
Off-Label Use and Dosage (Pediatric)
Guideline-Supported Use
There is limited information regarding Off-Label Guideline-Supported Use of Oxymetazoline in pediatric patients.
Non–Guideline-Supported Use
There is limited information regarding Off-Label Non–Guideline-Supported Use of Oxymetazoline in pediatric patients.
Contraindications
There is limited information regarding Oxymetazoline Contraindications in the drug label.
Warnings
Ask a doctor before use if you have
heart disease
high blood pressure
diabetes
thyroid disease
trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland
When using this product
do not use more than directed
do not use for more than 3 days. Use only as directed. Frequent or prolonged use may cause nasal congestion to recur or worsen.
temporary discomfort such as burning, stinging, sneezing or an increase in nasal discharge may occur
use of this container by more than one person may spread infection
Stop use and ask a doctor if
symptoms persist
If pregnant or breast-feeding,
ask a health professional before use.
Keep out of reach of children.
If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away. (1-800-222-1222)
Adverse Reactions
Clinical Trials Experience
There is limited information regarding Clinical Trial Experience of Oxymetazoline in the drug label.
Postmarketing Experience
There is limited information regarding Postmarketing Experience of Oxymetazoline in the drug label.
Drug Interactions
There is limited information regarding Oxymetazoline Drug Interactions in the drug label.
adults and children 6 to under 12 years of age (with adult supervision): 2 or 3 sprays in each nostril not more often than every 10 to 12 hours. Do not exceed 2 doses in any 24-hour period.
children under 6 years of age: ask a doctor
To spray, squeeze bottle quickly and firmly. Do not tilt head backward while spraying. Wipe nozzle clean after use. Replace cap tightly to maintain child resistance.
Precautions with Alcohol
Alcohol-Oxymetazoline interaction has not been established. Talk to your doctor about the effects of taking alcohol with this medication.
Brand Names
Afrin,
4-Way Long Lasting,
Neo-Synephrine 12 Hour,
Vicks Sinex 12 Hour,
Visine L.R.,
Nasacon,
Sinarest Nasal,
Duramist Plus.