Otrivine Metered Dose Sinusitis Spray

Health and Nutrition > Medicines > O



How does it work?

Xylometazoline belongs to a group of medicines called the sympathomimetics. It works by stimulating alpha adrenergic receptors in certain areas of the body. Xylometazoline acts on the alpha receptors in the walls of blood vessels causing them to narrow. This results in less blood travelling through the vessels which, in turn, decreases the amount of fluid pushed out into the nasal lining. This reduces mucus secretion and relieves the symptoms of nasal congestion in conditions such as allergies and colds. Xylometazoline is given as nasal drops or spray. This allows the medicine to act directly where it is needed and so reducing the likelihood of side-effects in other parts of the body.

What is it used for?

- Nasal congestion

Warning!

- Avoid prolonged use.
- The effect of this medicine will decrease if used repeatedly over a period of time. In addition, a return of nasal congestion (rebound congestion) may occur on stopping treatment if the medicine was used for too long.

Use with caution in

- Coronary artery disease
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Hyperthyroidism
- Infants under 3 months of age

Not to be used in

- Known sensitivity or allergy to any ingredient
- People who have taken monoamine-oxidase inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) in the last 14 days
- Removal or destruction of the pituitary gland in the brain (hypophysectomy)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.