Vicks sinex decongestant nasal spray

How does it work?

Vicks sinex decongestant nasal spray contains the active ingredient oxymetazoline, which is a type of medicine called a decongestant.

When this medicine is sprayed into the nose, the oxymetazoline works by acting on alpha receptors that are found in the walls of blood vessels in the linings of the nasal passages and sinuses. It causes these blood vessels to contract and narrow, thereby decreasing blood flow into the linings of the nose and sinuses. This reduces swelling and the feeling of congestion. It also reduces the production of mucus, helping to relieve a blocked nose.

The nasal spray helps relieve congestion in a few minutes and the effect of the medicine lasts for about eight hours. One to two sprays should be used in each nostril every six to eight hours as necessary, for up to a week.

As the medicine causes the blood vessels in the nose to contract, it minimises the amount of medicine that is absorbed into the bloodstream from the nose. This means that the nasal spray has a relatively local effect in the nose and is unlikely to have side effects on other parts of the body.

What is it used for?

Nasal congestion, for example due to colds, sinusitis or nasal allergies such as hayfever.

Warning!

This medicine is for nasal use only and should not be taken by mouth.

Avoid getting the spray in the eyes.

You should not use this medicine continuously for longer than seven days. This is because the medicine can become less effective if used excessively. In addition, nasal congestion may come back (rebound congestion) when you stop using the medicine if you use it for too long.

Use with caution in

Coronary heart disease

High blood pressure

Overactive thyroid gland

Diabetes mellitus

Glaucoma

Enlarged prostate gland (prostatic hypertrophy).

Not to be used in

Children under six years of age.

People who have taken a monoamine-oxidase inhibitor antidepressant (MAOI) in the last 14 days.

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.

The safety of this medicine for use during pregnancy has not been established. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant.

It is not known if this medicine passes into breast milk. You should seek medical advice from your doctor before using this medicine if you are breastfeeding.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Nasal irritation

Sneezing

Dry mouth and throat

Rebound congestion after prolonged use (see warning above).

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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