Rhinozol

Indications

Xylometazoline is a nasal decongestant. It gives quick relief from a blocked or stuffy nose caused by colds, flu, sinusitis and allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Some sprays combine it with Sodium Cromoglicate to treat both the blockage and the allergy.

How It Works

It narrows the swollen blood vessels in the lining of the nose. This shrinks the swelling and opens the nasal passages, usually within a few minutes, and the effect lasts for several hours.

Dosage and Administration

• Adults and children 12 years and over (0.1%): 1 or 2 drops, or 1 spray, in each nostril up to 3 times a day.
• Children 6 to 11 years (0.05% paediatric strength): 1 or 2 drops in each nostril once or twice a day.
• Children under 6 years: only if a doctor advises it.

Blow the nose gently first. Do not use for more than 7 days in a row, because longer use can make the blockage come back worse. Leave at least 8 hours between doses where possible.

Interactions

Do not use it if you are taking, or have taken in the last 14 days, an MAO inhibitor antidepressant such as Moclobemide or Phenelzine, as blood pressure can rise sharply. Tricyclic antidepressants such as Amitriptyline, and other decongestants taken by mouth such as Pseudoephedrine or Phenylephrine, can add to its effects on the heart and blood pressure.

Contraindications

• Allergy to xylometazoline or any ingredient.
• After surgery done through the nose to reach the brain or pituitary gland.
• Narrow-angle glaucoma.
• Dry, crusted inflammation of the nose lining (rhinitis sicca).

Side Effects

Common: burning or stinging in the nose, dryness, sneezing, headache and mild nosebleeds. Using it for too long can cause rebound blockage. Rarely: fast heartbeat, raised blood pressure, nausea, and restlessness or poor sleep in children.

Get urgent medical help if you have chest pain, a pounding or irregular heartbeat, a severe headache, or signs of allergy such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing. In a child, get help at once for unusual sleepiness, slow breathing or paleness.

Pregnancy and Lactation

It is not recommended during pregnancy unless a doctor advises it, because it can affect blood vessels. During breastfeeding, use it only if a doctor or pharmacist agrees, at the lowest dose for the shortest time.

Precautions and Warnings

Use with care and ask a doctor first if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, diabetes or an enlarged prostate. Do not use for more than 7 days. Each bottle should be used by one person only, to avoid spreading infection; wipe the tip after use. Keep to the right strength for a child's age.

Overdose

Using too much, or a child swallowing the drops, can cause drowsiness, slow or fast heartbeat, slow breathing, low body temperature, sweating and, in severe cases, coma. Young children are especially at risk. Seek emergency medical help straight away.

Therapeutic Class

Nasal decongestant (alpha-adrenergic agonist).

Storage

Store below 30°C, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the cap closed and use within the time stated on the label after opening.