DECONGESTANTS

Decongestants are the drugs that reduce congestion of nasal passages, which in turn open
clogged nasal passages and enhances drainages of the sinuses.
e.g phenylephrine, oxymetazoline etc.
Mechanism of Action
Mucus membrane decongestants are α1 agonists, which produce localized vasoconstriction on
the small blood vessels of the nasal membrane. Reduce congestion in nasal passages.
Clinical uses:
Used in congestion associated with rhinitis, hay fever, allergic rhinitis and to a lesser extent
common cold.
Drugs can be administered nasally or orally for longer duration of action.
Classification:

1. Short acting decongestants administered topically – phenylepherne, phenylpropanolamine
2. Long acting decongestants administered orally – ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, naphazoline
3. Long acting topical decongestants
   o Xylometazoline
   o oxymetazoline
   
   Side effects:
4. Rebound nasal congestion
5. Ischemic changes in mucus membranes
6. Nasal burning, stinging, dryness
7. Tachycardia, arrhythmia, nervousness, restlessness, insomnia, blurred vision
   Contraindications
8. Hypertension, severe coronary artery disease