Decongestants are medications that provide brief relief for a stuffed or blocked nose. These can help alleviate the symptoms of conditions such as flu, common cold, hay fever, sinusitis and other allergic reactions.
The medication works by reducing the swelling of the blood vessels in the nose that opens up the airways.
What are the types of decongestants?
Decongestants are available as:
- Tablets or capsules
- Nasal sprays
- Liquid or syrup
- Flavored powder dissolved in hot water
There are some products that contain decongestant medication but many are sold as “all-in-one” remedies that include decongestants, pain medications and/or antihistamines.
Most variants are available over-the-counter from pharmacies without requiring a prescription.
Who can use the medications?
Many can utilize decongestants safely but they are not suitable for everybody. It should not be used by the following without consulting a doctor first:
- Infants and children
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women
- Diabetics
- Individuals who are using other medications
- Individuals who have high blood pressure, enlarged prostate or an overactive thyroid gland
- Those who have kidney, liver or heart issues
- Individuals with glaucoma
Proper use of decongestants
Most decongestants must only be used 3-4 times in a day. It is vital to check the packaging instructions that is included with the medication on the dosage and how often it should be taken. If uncertain, consult a doctor.
The decongestant nasal sprays should not be used for more than a week at a time since prolonged use can worsen the stuffiness. A doctor should be consulted if the symptoms do not improve after time.
Potential side effects
Decongestants do not usually have side effects and if there are any, they are usually mild such as the following:
- Irritation of the nasal lining
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Feeling sick
- Rash
- Feeling agitated or restless
- Difficulty sleeping
- Uncontrollable shaking or tremors
- Rapid and/or erratic heartbeat
- Strong heartbeats or palpitations
- Difficulty passing urine among men
Remember that these side effects must settle after using the medication. As for serious side effects such as anaphylaxis and hallucinations, they are considered rare.
Drug interactions
A doctor should be consulted first before using decongestants if other medications are used. Take note that decongestants can increase or decrease the effect of other medications.