Afrin 0.05% Nasal Drop

Description

Indications
Afrin is used to relieve nasal congestion associated with conditions such as acute or chronic rhinitis, the common cold, sinusitis, upper respiratory allergies, epistaxis (nosebleeds), and hay fever. It also acts as a nasal decongestant in the management of otitis media.
Use this medicine according to the advice of a registered physician.

Pharmacology
Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride is an imidazoline derivative sympathomimetic amine. As a direct agonist at α-adrenoceptors, it does not affect β-adrenoceptors. When applied topically to the nasal mucosa, it induces rapid and prolonged vasoconstriction of the blood vessels. This reduces blood flow, decreases mucosal swelling, and improves airway function and sinus drainage.

Dosage

• Oxymetazoline Nasal Spray
  Adults and children (6 years and older): 2 to 3 sprays in each nostril twice daily for 3-5 days.
  Elderly patients: No dosage reduction is necessary for nasal administration.
  Children under 6 years: Not recommended for use in children under 6 years of age.

• Oxymetazoline Nasal Drops
  Adults & children (6 years and older): 2-3 drops of 0.05% nasal drops in each nostril twice daily, in the morning and evening.
  Children (2-5 years): 2-3 drops of 0.025% nasal drops in each nostril twice daily, in the morning and evening.
  Use this medicine according to the advice of a registered physician.

Administration

• How to Use the Nasal Spray

  1. Shake the bottle gently and remove the dust cover.
  2. Hold the spray with your forefinger and middle finger on either side of the nozzle and your thumb underneath the bottle. Press down until a fine mist is released. If using for the first time or after prolonged inactivity (more than a week), pump the applicator several times until a fine mist emerges.
  3. Gently blow your nose to clear your nostrils.
  4. Close one nostril, insert the applicator into the open nostril, tilt your head slightly forward, and keep the spray upright. Breathe in through your nose, and while doing so, press the applicator firmly to release the spray.
  5. Breathe out through your mouth.
  6. Repeat the process for the other nostril.

• Cleaning the Nasal Spray
  Clean the nasal spray once a week as follows:

  1. Remove the dust cover.
  2. Gently pull off the nasal applicator.
  3. Wash the applicator and dust cover in warm water.
  4. Shake off excess water and let them air dry in a normal place. Do not apply extra heat.
  5. Reattach the applicator and dust cover after drying.

Use this medicine according to the advice of a registered physician.

Interactions
Afrin should not be used by patients currently taking MAO inhibitors or those who have stopped using them within the past 14 days.

Contraindications
This product is contraindicated in patients with cardiovascular diseases, hyperthyroidism, prostatic enlargement, angle-closure glaucoma, or hypersensitivity to any of its components.

Side Effects
Some users may experience occasional irritation, dryness of the mouth and throat, or temporary discomfort such as burning, stinging, sneezing, or increased nasal discharge.

Pregnancy & Lactation
The safety of Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride Nasal Spray during pregnancy and lactation has not been established. However, it is generally not considered hazardous during these periods.

Precautions & Warnings
Avoid contact with the eyes. Do not use the spray for more than seven days without medical advice. Prolonged or frequent use may worsen nasal congestion.

Overdose Effects
Overdose may cause local irritation and rebound congestion. Treatment should be symptomatic.

Therapeutic Class
Nasal Anti-histamines, Nasal Decongestants & Other Nasal Preparations

Storage Conditions
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Keep out of reach of children.