Oxymetazoline

Oxymetazoline is a sympathomimetic agent that is used in medicine as an alpha-adrenomimetic. This means that it acts on the receptors of the alpha-adrenergic system, causing constriction of blood vessels and reducing swelling of the mucous membrane.

Oxymetazoline is mainly used topically in the form of drops or sprays for the nose or eyes to relieve symptoms of nasal congestion caused by runny nose or allergic rhinitis, as well as to reduce swelling of the nasal mucosa in other respiratory diseases. It may also be used in the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis to relieve swelling and redness of the eyes.

It is important to remember that oxymetazoline is intended only for symptomatic treatment, alleviating the manifestations but not treating the cause of the disease. In addition, it should not be used for a longer period of time than recommended, as this may lead to the development of tolerance and weaken the effectiveness of the drug, as well as side effects. It is recommended that you consult your doctor before using oxymetazoline, especially if you have other medical conditions or medications you are taking.

Indications Oxymetazoline

1. Runny nose: Oxymetazoline is often used to relieve nasal congestion caused by a runny nose or other respiratory illnesses such as influenza or acute respiratory infections.
2. Allergic rhinitis: The drug is also effective in allergic rhinitis due to allergies to pollen, dust, animal droppings and other allergens.
3. Allergicconjunctivitis: In cases of allergic conjunctivitis (allergic inflammation of the conjunctiva), oxymetazoline may be used to relieve swelling and redness of the eyes.
4. Middle otitis media: Some forms of oxymetazoline may be used to reduce swelling of the ear mucosa in middle otitis media.
5. Parenteral use: Oxymetazoline is sometimes used as a vasoconstrictor when injected into the eye or in the treatment of bleeding.

Release form

1. Nasal drops:

   • Usually presented in bottles with a dispenser.
   • It is recommended to administer the drops into each nostril according to the instructions on the package or doctor's recommendations.
   • Usually used no more than 2-3 times a day to avoid developing tolerance.

2. Nasal sprays:

   • They are also bottles with a dispenser, providing a more even distribution of the product in the nasal passages.
   • Like drops, it is recommended to use according to the instructions on the package or as directed by your doctor, usually no more than 2-3 times a day.

3. Eye drops:

   • Sometimes oxymetazoline is used to relieve swelling of the eye mucosa in allergic conjunctivitis.
   • Dosage and frequency of use may vary depending on package directions or doctor's recommendations.

Pharmacodynamics

1. Vasoconstriction: Oxymetazoline is an adrenomimetic that acts as an α1-adrenoreceptor agonist. After topical application of oxymetazoline, the vascular response is manifested by constriction of capillaries and arterioles, resulting in decreased swelling and hyperemia of the nasal mucosa.
2. Reducing edema of the nasal mucosa: Due to vasoconstriction oxymetazoline reduces swelling of the mucosa, which facilitates breathing and reduces nasal congestion in runny nose, rhinitis and sinusitis.
3. Prolonged action: Oxymetazoline has a relatively long duration of action, which allows you to reduce the frequency of use to 12 hours or even longer.
4. Minimal systemic exposure: When applied topically, oxymetazoline is practically not absorbed into the systemic bloodstream, which reduces possible systemic side effects.

Pharmacokinetics

Oxymetazoline is an aminephrine-type sympathomimetic used as a decongestant. Once applied topically (e.g. In nasal drops or sprays), it constricts blood vessels and reduces swelling of the nasal mucosa, improving breathing.

The pharmacokinetics of oxymetazoline may vary depending on route of administration, dosage and individual patient characteristics. In most cases where oxymetazoline is used topically (e.g. In nasal preparations), systemic absorption is low. As a rule, it is rapidly metabolized in the liver and excreted from the body, mainly through the kidneys.

Dosing and administration

1. For adults and children over 6 years of age:

   • It is usually recommended that 2-3 drops (or 1-2 sprays) of oxymetazoline be administered into each nostril.
   • It is usually applied no more frequently than every 10 to 12 hours.

2. For children ages 2 to 6 years old:

   • For drops: it is usually recommended to administer 1-2 drops into each nostril.
   • For spray: 1 spray into each nostril.

3. For children under 2 years of age:

   • The use of oxymetazoline in children under 2 years of age should be supervised by a doctor.

Use Oxymetazoline during pregnancy

It is important to consult your doctor before using oxymetazoline during pregnancy. Oxymetazoline is a medication that is commonly used to relieve nasal congestion and reduce mucus production in runny nose caused by respiratory infections or allergies. However, without proper consultation with a doctor, the use of this medicine during pregnancy may be undesirable.

Some studies indicate that topical use of low-dose oxymetazoline in the form of nasal drops is probably safe during pregnancy. However, systemic exposure or prolonged use of oxymetazoline may be associated with risks to fetal development, so use in such cases should be under medical supervision.

Contraindications

1. Hypersensitivity: People with known hypersensitivity to oxymetazoline or any other component of the drug should not use it.
2. Bradycardia: The use of oxymetazoline may be undesirable in patients with bradycardia (excessively slow heartbeat).
3. Hypertension: Oxymetazoline should be used with caution in patients with hypertension (high blood pressure).
4. Sick children: In children under 6 years of age, oxymetazoline should be used only under medical supervision. For infants and children, it is recommended to use formulas designed specifically for children.
5. Pregnancy and lactation: Use of oxymetazoline during pregnancy or lactation should be under the supervision of a physician.
6. Heart disease: Oxymetazoline should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease such as ischemic heart disease or arrhythmias.
7. Thyroid disease: In patients with hyperthyroidism (increased thyroid function), oxymetazoline should be used with caution because of possible increased side effects.

Side effects Oxymetazoline

1. Mucous membrane dryness: Oxymetazoline may cause dryness of the mucous membranes of the nose, throat and eyes, which may lead to a feeling of discomfort.
2. Reactive mucosal edema: Prolonged or excessive use of oxymetazoline may lead to reactive edema of the nasal mucosa, which will aggravate the stuffiness and necessitate further use of the drug.
3. Withdrawal runny nose: After discontinuation of oxymetazoline use, a temporary runny nose may develop due to reactive mucosal edema.
4. Burning or tingling sensation: Some people may experience a burning or tingling sensation in the nose after using oxymetazoline.
5. Increase in blood pressure: Oxymetazoline may temporarily increase blood pressure in some people, especially those with hypertension.
6. Headache: Some patients may experience headache after using oxymetazoline.
7. Drowsiness or insomnia: Oxymetazoline may cause drowsiness in some people, while in others it may cause insomnia or restless sleep.
8. Tachycardia: In some cases oxymetazoline may cause palpitations.

Overdose

1. Severe vasoconstriction of the mucosal vessels, which can lead to severe swelling and difficulty breathing.
2. Increased blood pressure.
3. Heart palpitations (tachycardia) and arrhythmias.
4. Dizziness and headache.
5. Nervousness and restlessness.
6. Sleep disturbance.
7. Tremors and tremors.
8. Seizures.

Interactions with other drugs

Oxymetazoline is generally used topically for vasoconstriction and relief of nasal congestion. Information on interactions with other drugs is usually limited because systemic absorption of oxymetazoline after topical application is low. However, concomitant use of oxymetazoline with other drugs, especially sympathomimetics or agents that increase blood pressure, may result in enhancement of their effects on the cardiovascular system.

Storage conditions

1. Storage Temperature: Generally, oxymetazoline should be stored at room temperature, 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Avoid storing the drug at temperatures below 15°C or above 30°C.
2. Humidity: Store oxymetazoline in a dry place protected from moisture. Avoid storing the drug in humid conditions.
3. Light: Keep oxymetazoline in its original package or container protected from direct sunlight. Light may adversely affect the stability of the drug.
4. Children and pets: Keep the drug safely out of the reach of children and pets.
5. Shelf life: It is important to follow the shelf life of oxymetazoline, which is indicated on the package or bottle. Do not use the medicine after this expiry date.