PRODUCT DETAILS

Composition

• Xylometazoline hydrochloride 0.1% w/v
• Usually contains excipients such as:
• Benzalkonium chloride (preservative)
• In some variants: sorbitol or moisturising agents

Use / Indication

• Fast relief of blocked or stuffy nose
• Common cold and flu
• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
• Sinusitis
• Nasal congestion due to upper respiratory infections

It works by constricting blood vessels in the nose, reducing swelling and improving airflow.

Direction of Use

• Adults and children over 12 years
• Usual dose: 2–3 drops in each nostril
• Use up to 2–3 times daily
• Do not use for more than 5–7 days continuously
• Tilt head back when applying drops

Side Effects

• Nasal dryness or irritation
• Burning or stinging sensation in the nose
• Sneezing
• Headache
• Nausea (rare)
• Increased heart rate or palpitations (rare)
• Rebound congestion if overused (blocked nose returns worse)

Long-term or excessive use can cause dependence and worsening congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa).

Warning

• Do not use for more than a few days (max ~5–7 days)
• Avoid in:
• Severe hypertension
• Heart disease
• Glaucoma
• After certain nasal surgeries
• Overuse can damage nasal lining and worsen breathing problems

Interaction

• MAO inhibitors (risk of dangerous blood pressure rise)
• Tricyclic antidepressants (may increase cardiovascular effects)
• Other sympathomimetic drugs (additive side effects)

Caution

• Not for long-term daily use (risk of rebound congestion and dependency)
• Use cautiously in:
• Elderly patients
• People with high blood pressure or thyroid disease
• If blocked nose persists beyond a week, underlying cause should be checked instead of continuing the spray