Question

Discuss decongestants including the difference between nasal and systemic decongestants. Include the action, administration/route, side effects, and drug interactions/considerations.  

Write an NCLEX style question on either type of medication discussed. Include the answer and rationale.  

Answer 1

DECONGESTANTS

Definition:-substance or drugs that used to relieve mucous congestion of the upper respiratory tract.

Eg Intranasal corticosteroids

The types of decongestants are

1.Nasal decongestants

2.Systwmic decongestants

NASAL DECONGESTANTS

Nasal decongestants are type of drugs used to relieve congestion in nose. (upper respiratory tract).

eg. Afrin, sudafed, silfedrin

*Action- It stimulates the alpha adrenergic receptors to constrict dilated artery within nasal mucosa.

*Administration-Ising a nasal spray gently insert the bottle tip into the nostril and breath deeply through that nose as you squeeze the bottle.

*Route - Nasal spray-insufflated through nose.

*side effects-Burning

Stinging

Sneezing

Dryness

Palpitation

High blood pressure

*Interaction-It may interact with Anti histamines applied to skin, blood pressure medications, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers.

SYSTEMIC DECONGESTANTS

Decongestants can be absorbed from the nose through inhalation produce systemic effect to central nervous system.

eg. Contac D, Nexafed, phenylephrine

*Action-It acts by Adrenergic stimulants results in vascular constriction.

*Administration and Route-Through Nasal Inhalation

*Side effects-Burning, Stinging, Sneezing, Seizures, Anxiety, Duzxiness, Tremors.

*Drug interaction- interact with Anti Histamines.