Uses of Oxymetazoline

Oxymetazoline is used to relieve eye redness and discomfort caused due to allergic or irritant conditions. It is also to treat nasal congestion, itching and discomfort caused due to common cold, sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses) or allergic rhinitis (an allergic condition).

Therapeutic Category

Oxymetazoline: Ophthalmic Antihistamines and Nasal Decongestants (sympathomimetic agents)

How Oxymetazoline works

Oxymetazoline works by narrowing down the blood vessels supplying the eyes. This helps swollen blood vessels of the eyes to return to its normal size which reduces eye redness and discomfort.

Oxymetazoline opens and clears the nasal passages. It works by narrowing down the blood vessels supplying the nasal passage. This helps swollen blood vessels of the nasal tract to return to its normal size which allows the air to pass through the nostrils more freely. It also reduces excessive nasal secretions and provides temporary relief from nasal inflammation, swelling and discomfort.

Common side effects of Oxymetazoline

• eye pain or irritation
• pupils becomes larger or smaller
• rebound congestion
• increased eye pressure
• dry nose
• nose discomfort
• headache
• nausea
• irritation or burning sensation after application

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience severe allergic reactions (such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and/or throat which can lead to difficulty in breathing or swallowing)
• If you experience restlessness, hallucination, and problems in sleeping
• If you experience severe itching of the skin, with red rash or raised spots on the skin

Health Tips for Oxymetazoline

• Wash your eyes with plain cold water. Place an ice pack on your eye to ease the irritation. Avoid straining your eyes by looking at mobile phones, laptops, or television. Wear protective eyeglasses while going outdoors
• Rest and relax. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids such as water or electrolytes
• Applying a pain-relieving balm on your forehead can be beneficial
• Do not consume excessive alcohol, as it could aggravate your headache
• To keep your nasal passages moist, consider using a saline nasal spray or rinsing your nasal passages with a saline solution. This can help prevent dryness and aid in clearing mucus