OxyFast

Indications

Oxymetazoline is a nasal decongestant. Nose drops and sprays are used for short-term relief of a blocked or stuffy nose caused by colds, flu, sinusitis and hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Doctors may also use it to help open the nasal passages before some ear, nose and throat procedures.

How It Works

It narrows the small, swollen blood vessels in the lining of the nose. This reduces swelling and mucus, making it easier to breathe through the nose. Relief usually starts within minutes and lasts up to 12 hours.

Dosage and Administration

Adults and children over 12 years (0.05% solution): 2 to 3 drops or 1 to 2 sprays in each nostril every 10 to 12 hours. Do not use more than 2 times in 24 hours. Children 6 to 12 years: use the children's strength (usually 0.025%) only as directed on the label or by a doctor. Children under 6 years: only as prescribed, with the strength made for young children; it is not recommended for infants unless a doctor advises it. Do not use for more than 3 days in a row unless a doctor tells you to. Blow your nose gently before use, and do not share the bottle with others.

Interactions

Avoid using it with, or within 14 days of stopping, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as Phenelzine or Selegiline, as blood pressure may rise sharply. Tricyclic antidepressants such as Amitriptyline, other decongestants such as Pseudoephedrine or Phenylephrine, and some blood pressure medicines may interact if large amounts are absorbed.

Contraindications

• Allergy to oxymetazoline or any ingredient.
• Dry, crusty inflammation of the nose (rhinitis sicca).
• After surgery through the nose to the pituitary gland, or other surgery exposing the brain lining.
• Narrow-angle glaucoma.
• Children younger than the age stated on the product.

Side Effects

Temporary burning, stinging, dryness of the nose, sneezing or a runny nose may occur. Using it for longer than recommended can cause rebound congestion (the nose becomes more blocked when the medicine wears off), which can lead to long-term dependence on the spray. Rarely, headache, a fast heartbeat, raised blood pressure, nervousness or trouble sleeping occur. Get urgent medical help if you have chest pain, a very fast or irregular heartbeat, a severe headache, or signs of a severe allergic reaction, or if a child swallows the liquid or shows drowsiness, slow breathing or unusual paleness.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless a doctor advises it. If needed, use the lowest dose for the shortest time.

Precautions and Warnings

Tell your doctor or pharmacist before use if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, an overactive thyroid, diabetes, an enlarged prostate or difficulty passing urine. Do not use more often or for longer than directed. If symptoms last more than 3 days, or you have a high fever or thick coloured discharge with facial pain, see a doctor. Keep the tip of the bottle clean.

Overdose

Using too much may cause a fast heartbeat, raised blood pressure, headache and restlessness. In young children, even a small swallowed amount can cause drowsiness, slow breathing, low body temperature and coma. Seek emergency medical help immediately.

Therapeutic Class

Nasal decongestant (sympathomimetic, alpha-adrenergic agonist).

Storage

Store below 30°C, away from light and out of the reach of children. Do not freeze. Use within the period stated on the label after opening.