Oxymetazoline 0.05 %

Category- Allopathy

Medicine Highlights

Oxymetazoline Uses 

Oxymetazoline is a nasal decongestant medicine used to relieve nasal blockage and swelling. It is useful for the following indications: 

1. Nasal congestion caused by the common cold, flu, or sinus infections 
2. Swelling in the nasal passages due to allergic rhinitis (hay fever) or sinus inflammation 
3. Pressure or discomfort due to Sinus 

Directions for use

1. Gently blow your nose. 
2. Wash your hands. 
3. Tilt your head back and put the prescribed drops into each nostril. 
4. Keep your head tilted for a few seconds. 
5. Close the bottle tightly after use and wash your hands. 

Oxymetazoline side effects 

More Common  

1. Mild burning or stinging in the nose 
2. Dryness or irritation of the nasal passages 
3. Sneezing after using the drops 

Less Common

1. Nasal bleeding 
2. Headache or dizziness 
3. Rapid heartbeat or increased blood pressure (especially in sensitive individuals) 
4. Allergic reactions like rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing  

How Oxymetazoline works 

Oxymetazoline works by narrowing the blood vessels inside your nose. When the blood vessels shrink, it reduces swelling and congestion, making it easier to breathe through your nose. The effect is usually quick, helping to relieve stuffy or blocked noses caused by colds, allergies, or sinus problems. 

Safety Measures and Warning 

Allergy/hypersensitivity

If you are allergic to oxymetazoline or any ingredients in the drops, using it can cause swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing. 

Cardiovascular problems

Oxymetazoline can raise blood pressure or affect the heart, so it should be avoided unless your doctor allows it. 

Thyroid problems

It may increase heart rate or blood pressure, which can be risky for thyroid conditions. 

Diabetes

It may affect blood sugar control in some cases, so consult your doctor. 

Children under 6 years

Safety in young children is not well established, so use only if prescribed. 

Oxymetazoline Interaction with Food Product

Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking before or after taking the drug, as they can alter its effect and cause drowsiness or sedation. 

Oxymetazoline Interaction with Other Medicines

Avoid taking oxymetazoline with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal: 

Oxymetazoline Chemical Structure

IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name

3-(4,5-Dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-ylmethyl)-2,4-dimethyl-6-tert-butylphenol 

Intake routine/cycle

Daily dose

Take oxymetazoline exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor. 

Missed Dose

If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage. 

Overdose

It is recommended not to take oxymetazoline drops than prescribed by your doctor. Overdose of oxymetazoline can cause severe nasal irritation, nosebleeds, dizziness, headache, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, nausea, or vomiting; seek medical attention immediately if this happens. 

Storage

1. Store the medicine at room temperature 
2. Keep away from sunlight and moisture 
3. Keep out of reach of children 

Oxymetazoline Summary 

Oxymetazoline is a nasal decongestant used to relieve nasal congestion and stuffiness caused by colds, flu, sinus infections, or allergies. It works by shrinking the blood vessels in your nose, which reduces swelling and makes it easier to breathe. Common side effects include mild burning, stinging, dryness, or sneezing, while rare side effects may include nosebleeds, headache, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or allergic reactions.  People with high blood pressure, heart problems, thyroid issues, diabetes, allergies to the medicine, or young children should avoid it unless prescribed by a doctor. Avoid use for over 3–5 days to prevent rebound congestion. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and avoid exceeding the recommended dose. 

FAQ’s

What are the common side effects of oxymetazoline nasal drops? 

You may experience mild burning or stinging in the nose, dryness, irritation, or sneezing. These are usually temporary.  

What are the uses of oxymetazoline? 

Oxymetazoline is used to relieve nasal congestion and stuffiness caused by colds, flu, sinus infections, or allergies. It helps reduce swelling in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe through your nose and temporarily relieves sinus pressure or discomfort. 

What is the mechanism of action of oxymetazoline? 

Oxymetazoline shrinks the blood vessels inside your nose, which reduces swelling and congestion. This makes it easier to breathe through a blocked or stuffy nose caused by colds, allergies, or sinus infections. 

Reference 

1. PubChem. Oxymetazoline [Internet]. pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Available from 
2. Oxymetazoline [Internet]. go.drugbank.com. Available from 
3. Oxymetazoline (Nasal Route) Description and Brand Names – Mayo Clinic [Internet]. www.mayoclinic.org. Available from 
4. Cleveland Clinic. Oxymetazoline nasal spray [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic. Available from 

Pranathi Chintaluri

Pranathi is a final year Pharm D student at Chalapathi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences. She loves learning and applying her knowledge in pharmacy and has a passion for writing, which allows her to express ideas clearly and creatively. She enjoys combining her technical skills with her love for writing and communication to make a meaningful impact. Currently she is working on a research paper about “Consanguineous marriages and its impact on children’s health” which will be published by the end of 2025.