Acatar is a drug used in family medicine to reduce the effects of swelling of the nasal mucosa, i.e. its obstruction caused by, for example, an allergy. The preparation affects the respiratory system, reduces nasal discharge and mucosa congestion. Acatar is available as an aerosol and can be dispensed without a prescription.
Abide (US Pharmacia)
| form, dose, packaging | availability category | the active substance |
| aerozol do nosa 0,5 mg/g (0,05%) (15 ml, 30 ml) | OTC (over-the-counter) | oksymetazolina (oxymetazoline) |
Indications for use of the drug Acatar
The active substance of Acatar is oxymetazoline, a sympathomimetic and an imidazole derivative. The spray is recommended in periods of nasal obstruction caused by swelling of the mucosa in colds, flu, paranasal sinusitis, allergic rhinitis and in the course of other allergic diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Acatar is also given in the acute phases of chronic rhinitis.
Dosage of Acatar:
- Adults and children after 12 years of age: 2-3 doses in each nostril twice a day.
- Children 6-12 years of age: 1 dose in each nostril twice a day.
Acatar and contraindications and warnings
Contraindication to the use of the Acatar aerosol are: hypersensitivity to any component of the preparation and closing-angle glaucoma.
Acatar – warnings:
- Do not use simultaneously with MAO inhibitors due to the possibility of an increase in blood pressure.
- The use of the drug simultaneously with tricyclic antidepressants may increase the vasoconstrictor effect.
- Use caution in people diagnosed with heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, an overactive thyroid gland, or an enlarged prostate.
- Chronic runny nose can be treated only during exacerbation periods.
- Discontinued treatment can be resumed at any time, the dosage must be adhered to.
- The packaging should be used by one person.
- Use of the preparation during pregnancy only after consulting a doctor and only if absolutely necessary (no studies regarding the safety of the drug in pregnancy).
- The preparation should not be used during breastfeeding.
- People driving motor vehicles should be especially careful as the drug may have side effects that may impair the ability to concentrate.
Acatar – interactions:
Concomitant use of the drug with MAO inhibitors may lead to an increase in blood pressure. Interactions with other drugs do not occur due to the minimal absorption of the preparation into the systemic circulation.
Acatar – side effects:
Long-term use of the drug can cause dryness and burning sensation in the nasal cavity, swelling and congestion of the nasal mucosa. Rare: headache and dizziness, insomnia, palpitations. These symptoms disappear spontaneously within 12 hours of administration of the preparation.