Nasal drops – indications, contraindications, addiction, alternatives [WE EXPLAIN]

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Nasal drops are preparations used to treat nasal obstruction of various etiologies, most often infectious or allergic. The excessive use of nasal drops runs the risk of developing drug dependence. The solution to this problem may be alternatives to nasal drops, i.e. decongestants, but without certain active substances.

Nasal drops – indications

The use of nasal drops is a proven way to relieve the symptoms of rhinitis manifested, among others, by blockage of air flow through one or both nostrils, itching or runny nose. Problems with a stuffy nose also apply to infections of the paranasal sinuses, so also in this case, appropriate nasal drops are used symptomatically. Some preparations are recommended in the case of nasal polyps, inflammation of the Eustachian tube or otitis media.

Note that most drugs in the form of nasal drops (especially over-the-counter ones) is designed to relieve the symptoms of rhinitis, but not to combat the root causes. Therefore, it is important to recognize the source of the problem. Sometimes it is not associated with colds or allergies to pollen and dust mites. Ingredients of food products, work-related irritants, the use of certain medications, and hormonal causes can also cause irritation of the mucosa.

The feeling of stuffy nose can also be caused by idiopathic rhinitis (caused by dilation of the blood vessels in the nasal cavity), atrophic rhinitis or a curved nasal septum.

Nasal drops – contraindications

Before using the nasal drops, each patient should read the leaflet, rules of use and contraindications to the use of the preparation. First of all, you should pay attention to the ingredients that may trigger an allergic reaction in us. Contraindications may include certain inflammatory conditions, e.g. atrophic rhinitis, glaucoma, as well as pregnancy and breastfeeding. Contraindications also include hypertension, diabetes, coronary artery disease, hyperthyroidism and prostate enlargement.

Particular care should be taken in the case of nasal drops for children. Regular rhinitis medications are intended for adults, and sometimes also for children 12 years of age or younger. There are also special sprays for children on the market – they contain ingredients with a mild effect and facilitate application.

Nasal preparations – drops, sprays, sprays

Medicines in various forms are used to relieve inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Before applying nasal preparations we should clean our nose as much as possible. Classic drops should be applied to the side of the nose by placing the applicator shallowly in each nostril, and then slowly drawing air through the nose. It is recommended that you tilt your head back strongly (sitting, standing or on your back) when applying the nasal drops. In the case of packages with a dispenser in the form spray The position with the head tilted forward will also work well. People with a curve septum can also try the sideways lying position.

It should be remembered that long-term improper use of nasal preparations may cause nose bleeding and, in some cases, even perforation of the nasal septum. Incorrect application of the preparation may also cause the drug substance to reach the esophagus and stomach, which in turn will adversely affect the effectiveness of the treatment and cause side effects. Remember that any drops that run down your throat should be coughed up.

Nasal drops – when to use them?

Indications for the use of nasal drops depend on the type of product we reach for. Most over-the-counter nasal drops are intended for short-term use (no longer than 3-5 days) for symptomatic treatment of the following conditions:

1. nasal congestion;
2. nasal discharge;
3. itching in the nasal cavity;
4. nasal dryness caused by dry air;
5. inflammation of the nasal mucosa and paranasal sinuses in the course of colds or flu;
6. obstruction problems due to allergies.

It is worth adding that the nasal mucosa provides the right conditions for the proper absorption of medicinal substances, which in turn makes it possible to administer drugs that affect the entire human body, e.g. anti-migraine, hormonal or analgesic drugs.

Nasal drops addiction

Many people abuse nose drops which should only be used for short periods. The problem arises in the case of over-the-counter preparations, which contain active substances such as xylometazoline hydrochloride (Otrivin, Sudafed XyloSpray, Xylogel, Xylometazolin WZF or Xylorin). Another imidazoline derivative, i.e., has a similar effect to xylometazoline oxymetazoline present in preparations such as Acatar, Afrin, Nasivin or Oxalin.

The use of xylometazoline hydrochloride should be limited to 5-10 days. The doses recommended by the manufacturer should be followed. If a patient who uses the nasal drops does not follow these instructions, it may lead to a the mucosa will get used to the xylometazoline. Drug-induced inflammation may also appear. This means that despite the cured cold, the patient may suffer from symptoms typical of rhinitis, which will encourage him to continue using the drops. Unfortunately, this may be a symptom of the addiction of the mucosa to the preparation – if we take it, we feel relieved, and if we discontinue it, the feeling of stuffy nose will reappear.

You can deal with addiction by changing nasal drops with xylometazoline for another preparation. It is worth starting the whole process with gradually reducing the dose of the drug that causes addiction. In order to alleviate the symptoms of dry mucosa, it is recommended to use moisturizers, e.g. sea water, inhalation with essential oils, home air humidifiers.

It is important for the health of the patient to discontinue the xylometazoline drops. Too long, especially many years of use of the preparation creates the risk of irreversible changes in the nasal mucosa. Damage and bleeding can occur and there is even a risk of developing mucosal necrosis.

If we are unable to wean the drops, consult an otolaryngologist as soon as possible, who will probably prescribe nasal glucocorticosteroids (or if not effective – orally) or antihistamines.

How to clear the nose without drops?

Nasal drops with medicinal active substances can be replaced with milder preparations with a decongestant effect. An alternative to nasal drops may be:

1. sea ​​water for the nose – moisturizes, helps in cleansing and clearing the nose, as well as reducing mucosa swelling; you can buy it as a spray or as an inhalation solution;
2. nasal salt solutions of various concentrations – they are used for irrigation, they allow you to get rid of nasal secretions;
3. essential oils for inhalation against runny nose – they clean, have bactericidal and antiviral properties.

Consult your doctor if you have chronic problems with rhinitis or sinus infections.

Nasal drops with steroids

There are preparations with steroids available on the market, which can be purchased with a prescription. Substances such as mometasone furoate (e.g. Metmin, Nasonex, Pronasal), fluticasone furoate (e.g. Avamys) or fluticasone propionate (e.g. Fanipos, Flixonase) are recommended for the treatment of allergic rhinitis. It should be noted here that these preparations hardly penetrate the blood and, under the supervision of a doctor, can be used safely even for a long period of time. As for over-the-counter nasal corticosteroids (eg Momester Nasal), they should be used according to the information provided in this leaflet.

Nasal drops – what to look for

It should be emphasized at the very beginning that for hygiene reasons, a given package of drops may only be used by one person. It should also be remembered that in the case of nasal drops with an atomizer, before the first use, you should press the dosing pump several times until the first dose appears at the nozzle outlet. Sometimes this procedure needs to be repeated if the drug has not been used for a while.

It should also not be forgotten that children must not be given nasal drops intended for adults.

Nasal drops – side effects

Depending on the preparation used, the side effects caused by the given drops may be different. The most frequently mentioned are: temporary burning, stinging, dry nose, runny nose and sneezing. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

If our doctor has recommended the use of a given drug, it should be remembered that he has assessed that the benefits of using the preparation are greater than the risk of side effects. Many people who use nasal drops do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you experience any of these unlikely, but serious side effects: slow / fast heartbeat, dizziness, nausea, headache, mental / mood changes, trouble sleeping, tremor, unusual sweating, particular weakness.

A very serious allergic reaction to nasal drops is rare. However, if we notice any signs of a severe allergic reaction, including: rash, itching / swelling (especially of the face, tongue or throat), severe dizziness, difficulty breathing, see your doctor immediately.

It should be added that this is not a complete list of possible side effects. If we notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible.

Read also:

1. Nasal septum surgery – description of the procedure and convalescence
2. Acute rhinitis in infants and young children
3. Effective medications for allergies. Tablets, nasal drops or infusions?

Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health. Do you need a medical consultation or an e-prescription? Go to halodoctor.pl, where you will get online help – quickly, safely and without leaving your home. Now you can use e-consultation also free of charge under the National Health Fund.