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Xylometazoline
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About xylometazoline
| Type of medicine | Nasal decongestant |
| Used for | Nasal congestion (a blocked nose) |
| Also called | Otradrops® Otraspray® Otrivine® Sudafed Non-Drowsy Decongestant® Tixycolds® |
| Available as | Nasal drops Nasal spray |
Xylometazoline causes the small blood vessels of the nose to become narrower resulting in a decrease in congestion. The effect of xylometazoline can last for several hours.
Before using xylometazoline
Before using xylometazoline make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you are taking any medicines to treat depression.
- If you are currently taking any cough and cold medicines.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
- If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
- Xylometazoline adult nasal drops and nasal spray are not recommended for children under 12 years.
- Child nasal drops are available for use in children aged 2 to 12 years - consult your pharmacist or healthcare professional before use in children under 6 years.
- Child nasal drops should not be used in children under 2 years of age.
How to use xylometazoline
Nasal drops
- Blow your nose gently.
- Tilt your head back as far as is comfortable.
- Apply two to three drops into each nostril (one or two drops in children aged 2 to12 years).
- Keep your head tilted back for a few moments to allow the drops to spread through the nose.
- Rinse the dropper with hot water and dry with a clean tissue.
- Replace the cap immediately after use.
- In adults and children over 12 years, repeat this procedure two to three times daily as needed, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
- In children aged 2 to 12 years, this can be repeated once or twice daily as needed. No more than two doses should be given in any 24 hours.
- Blow your nose gently.
- Shake the container and remove the cap.
- Tilt your head back and insert the nozzle of the spray into the nostril, taking care to keep the canister upright.
- Push down firmly on the canister to administer one spray into the nostril.
- Repeat for the other nostril.
- Wipe the nozzle with a clean tissue and replace the cap immediately after use.
- In adults and children over 12 years, repeat this procedure two to three times daily as needed, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Xylometazoline nasal preparations should not be used for more than 7 days in a row.
- Do not use more of this medicine than recommended by your doctor or pharmacist. This may cause your nose to become more stuffy and also increases the risk of side effects.
- To avoid the spread of infection, nasal preparations should only be used by one person.
Can xylometazoline cause problems
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.
| Side-effects | What can I do if I experience this |
| Nausea | Eat little and often. Stick to simple foods such as dry toast. |
| Headache | Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If headache continues speak with your doctor. |
Other side-effects may include irritation inside the nose and increased congestion after prolonged use. If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store xylometazoline
- Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- British National Formulary; 55th Edition (March 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
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