Precautions
If significant systemic absorption of oxymetazoline occurs, concomitant use of tricyclic antidepressants, maprotiline, or MAOIs, may potentiate the pressor effects of oxymetazoline.
Since no clinical data on exposed pregnancies are available with oxymetazoline, the safe use of oxymetazoline during pregnancy has not been established. Oxymetazoline is not to be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
To help prevent contamination from nasal secretions, rinse spray tips in hot water after each use. No more than one person should use the same nasal spray or pump.
Supplied
Each pump bottle contains: oxymetazoline HCl USP 0.05% in aqueous solution. Nonmedicinal ingredients: benzalkonium chloride, edetate disodium, monopropylene glycol, purified water, sodium phosphate monobasic monohydrate and pH adjusted with hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide. Conventional metered pump sprays of 25 mL. Store between 15 and 30°C.
Pharmacology
The sympathomimetic action of oxymetazoline hydrochloride constricts the arteriolar network within the nasal mucosa producing a prolonged decongestant effect.
Contraindications
Narrow angle glaucoma, rhinitis sicca. Concurrent therapy with MAOIs. Hypersensitivity to any component. Sensitivity to even small doses of adrenergic substances as manifested by sleeplessness, dizziness, lightheadedness, weakness, tremulousness, or cardiac arrhythmias. Do not use for irrigation or displacement after sinus operations in which the dura may have been entered.
Adverse Effects
CLARITIN Allergic Congestion Relief is generally well tolerated; side effects are usually mild and transient and include burning, stinging or increased nasal discharge. The following adverse effects may occur with topical nasal decongestants: dryness of the nasal mucosa, sneezing, palpitations, headache, lightheadedness, insomnia. Prolonged or excessive use may cause rebound congestion.
Indications
The symptomatic relief of congestion of the nasopharyngeal mucous membranes in a variety of allergic disorders of the upper respiratory tract, including acute rhinitis and nasopharyngitis; acute and chronic sinusitis; acute and chronic vasomotor rhinitis; perennial allergic rhinitis and seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever).
Dosage
Adults and children over 12 years of age: Spray 2 or 3 times into each nostril twice a day every 12 hours. With the head upright, place the spray nozzle in the nostril without completely occluding the nostril. During each administration, the patient should bend his head slightly forward and squeeze the bottle quickly and firmly to spray the recommended number of sprays in each nostril. If symptoms persist after 3 days, consult a physician. Prolonged or excessive use may cause an increase in nasal congestion.
Overdose
For management of a suspected drug overdose, CPhA recommends that you contact your regional Poison Control Centre. See the eCPS Directories section for a list of Poison Control Centres.
