Question

G.H. is a 53 yr old male who is preparing to fly across the country for a conference. he presents to his health care provider with nasal stuffinuwss. he states “i hate to fly when my nose is this way, it just makes ghe trup all that much longer.”

CASE STUDY W 1- Respiratory NT 1034 Drug Classification G.H. is a 53 yr old male who is preparing to fly across the country for a conference. He presents to his health care provider with nasal stuffiness. He states "I hate to fly when my nose is this way, it just makes the trip all that much longer". A decongestant, oxymetazoline (Afrin) is ordered. 1. What is the purpose of Afrin and how does it work? 2. What is the standard dosage for this medication? 3. What is rebound congestion? 4. What other side effects might be expected, and how can they be prevented? 5. Are there any other options for a decongestant?

Answer 1

Oxymetazoline(Afrin)
1, Afrin used to relieve congestion of the nose temporary caused by allergies and the common cold. It works by narrowing the blood vessels in the nose and reduce the swelling and congestion.
2, Standard dose includes 2 to 3 sprays in each nose per day. It should not exceed more than every 10 to 12 hours.
3, Rebound congestion is a nasal spray addiction. It worsens the nasal congestion condition due to nasal decongestant sprays like Afrin. The nasal passage will develop a dependence for this nasal spray with this 3 days period. so that only we should not use this nasal sprays not more than 3 days.
4, Side effects include burning sensation, nose dryness, runny nose, sneezing. consult a physician if there is any slow or fast heartbeat, nausea, headache, dizziness, mood changes, tremors, trouble sleeping, weakness, and excess sweating.
It can be prevented by taking the correct dose of medications as directed by the physician. Avoid overdose. Tell the doctor if there are any allergies with some other medicine. Inform the doctor if there is any health problem like heart disease, thyroid issues, diabetes, urinary problems. children and pregant women need supervision when taking this medication. Inform the doctor if you notice any abnormality with the initial dose itself. Learn about side effects and be aware of medication use.
5, There are different decongestant sprays available for stuffy nose. saline nasal spray, steroid nasal spray, antihistamine nasal spray also available as an alternate decongestant. It can be used safely to prevent the problem. If you want to use nasal sprays(decongestant) for more than 6 months consult the doctor before.