PRODUCT DETAILS

Composition

• Xylometazoline hydrochloride 0.05% w/v
• Sterile aqueous nasal solution
• Excipients may include:
• Benzalkonium chloride (preservative)
• Sodium chloride and buffering agents

(Child formulation is a lower strength decongestant than adult Otrivin.)

Use / Indication

• Relief of blocked nose (nasal congestion) in children
• Common cold and flu
• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
• Sinus congestion
• Helps children breathe more easily during upper respiratory infections

Direction of Use

• For children 6–12 years only (not for infants)
• Usual dose: 1–2 drops in each nostril
• Frequency: up to 1–2 times daily
• Maximum: no more than 2 doses in 24 hours
• Use for short-term only (max 5–7 days)
• Administer under adult supervision

Side Effects

• Nasal dryness
• Burning or stinging sensation in the nose
• Sneezing
• Headache
• Nausea (occasionally)
• Nasal irritation

Rare but possible with overuse:

• Fast heartbeat
• Restlessness or irritability
• Rebound congestion (worsening blocked nose after prolonged use)

Warning

• Do not use in children under 6 years
• Do not use for more than 5–7 days
• Overuse may cause rebound congestion (worsening blockage)
• Avoid in children with:
• Heart disease
• Severe hypertension
• Thyroid disorders
• Glaucoma
• Stop and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen

Interaction

• MAO inhibitors (risk of dangerous blood pressure rise)
• Tricyclic antidepressants (may increase cardiovascular effects)
• Other decongestants (additive side effects)
• Beta-blockers (reduced effectiveness or BP effects)

Caution

• Always use minimum effective dose
• Do not share dropper between users
• Avoid prolonged use (can damage nasal lining)
• If nasal blockage persists beyond a few days, underlying cause should be checked
• Use saline drops if long-term nasal hydration is needed instead of decongestants