Drug
Oxymetazoline
Uses
This medication is used for temporary relief of congestion in the nose caused by various conditions including the common cold, sinusitis, hay fever, and allergies. It works by narrowing the blood vessels in the nose area, reducing swelling and congestion.
Other Uses
This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
This drug may also be used to relieve "plugged ears" and to reduce swelling in the nose before certain surgeries or procedures.
How to Use This Medication
Use this medication in the nose as directed. Follow all directions on the product package, or use as directed by your doctor. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
To apply nasal drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your nose or any other surface. If needed, have another person place the drops in your nose.
Gently blow your nose before using this drug. Tilt your head back while sitting on a chair or lying down. Hold the dropper over the affected nostril and apply the directed number of drops. Keep your head tilted for a few minutes. Repeat these steps with the other nostril if needed. Do not swallow the medication if it drips into the throat.
This medication provides only temporary relief. Do not use more medication or use it more often or for longer than directed because doing so may increase the risk of side effects. Also, do not use this medication for more than 3 days because doing so may cause a condition called rebound congestion. Symptoms of rebound congestion include long-term redness and swelling inside the nose and increased runny nose. If this occurs, stop using this medication and consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Tell your doctor if your condition gets worse or lasts after 3 days.