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Allergy Relief / Allergy Medicine / Decongestants
Decongestants
Decongestants
Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), naphazoline (4-Way Fast-Acting Nasal Spray), and oxymetazoline (Afrin Nasal Spray) are examples of decongestants.
- How decongestants work: These drugs decrease nasal congestion by causing blood vessel constriction (narrowing) and reduced blood flow to the nasal passage.
- Who should not use these medications: These medications should not be used in those who are allergic to them. They may cause unwanted side effects in individuals with the following conditions:
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Poorly controlled high blood pressure
- Coronary artery disease (hardening of the arteries)
- Use: Use nasal sprays as directed for temporary relief only (no longer than 3-5 days). Prolonged use can cause worsening congestion.
- Drug or food interactions:
- Avoid within 2 weeks of taking MAOIs (for example, isocarboxazid [Marplan], pargyline [Eutonyl], procarbazine [Matulane], and tranylcypromine [Parnate]).
- Use caution with herbal drug preparations that also increase blood pressure, such as ephedra (Ma Huang).
- Illicit drugs (such as cocaine) may also cause increased blood pressure.
- Side effects: Do not use decongestant nasal sprays for more than 3-5 days. Use beyond 3-5 days causes swelling in the nasal passages and aggravates allergic symptoms. Oral decongestants may increase blood pressure, cause or aggravate existing heart rhythm abnormalities, and/or cause wakefulness and difficulty falling asleep.
From http://www.webmd.com/allergies/guide/decongestants
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DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this site is for educational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for personal care by a licensed physician. Please see your physician for diagnosis and treatment of any concerning symptoms or medical condition.
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