Description
Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride Nasal Solution IP 0.05% w/v is a fast-acting nasal decongestant that provides relief from nasal stuffiness due to colds, allergies, and sinus infections. It works by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing swelling and mucus. It offers relief within minutes and typically lasts up to 12 hours.
Mechanism of Action:
Oxymetazoline acts as a selective α₁-adrenergic receptor agonist and partial α₂ agonist. It causes vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) in the nasal mucosa, which leads to reduced swelling, inflammation, and mucus production. This provides rapid and effective relief from nasal congestion.
The onset of action is typically within 5–10 minutes, and effects can last up to 10–12 hours.
Uses:
- Nasal congestion due to:
- Common cold
- Sinusitis
- Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Non-allergic rhinitis
- Eustachian tube dysfunction (for relief of ear pressure)
- Sometimes used pre-operatively to reduce nasal mucosal swelling