There are different types of decongestant medications available. Each has slightly different ingredients, and each may produce different side effects. A clinical trial investigated the efficacy of phenylephrine in treating congestion in people with allergic rhinitis.
The study found that phenylephrine was no more effective than a placebo. An earlier study from found no significant difference between a single dose of phenylephrine vs. The study also showed that phenylephrine has no significant effect on other symptoms of common colds or URIs. Phenylephrine may cause additional issues for people with some medical conditions, and those taking certain prescription medications. Pseudoephedrine is a nasal decongestant available as a standalone product or as part of a multidrug combination.
In , the Food and Drug Administration FDA placed restrictions on the sale of pseudoephedrine due to its illegal use in the making of methamphetamine. The regulation:. An older study from found that pseudoephedrine was significantly more effective at alleviating nasal congestion than a placebo. People with the following conditions should talk to their doctor before taking any medication that contains pseudoephedrine:.
These medications may reduce the risk of cardiovascular effects that doctors associate with oral decongestants. To reduce the risk of rebound congestion, a person can use decongestant nasal sprays for only a few days at a time. Intranasal corticosteroids are medications that reduce swelling and excess mucus production in the nasal passages that result from inflammation, often allergic.
These medications are available as a nasal spray that people can apply directly inside the nostrils. Though typically safe for short term use, long term use can increase the risk of the following side effects:. Although antihistamines are not a decongestant, they can help to alleviate nasal congestion resulting from allergies. Antihistamines are available in various forms. Some cause drowsiness, whereas others are nondrowsy. Though generally safe for adults, parents and caregivers should talk to a doctor before giving antihistamines to children.
A person should always ensure that they read medication labels carefully to avoid taking too much of a particular one. A person who experiences nasal congestion due to allergies may benefit from taking an antihistamine or nasal corticosteroid. Otherwise, there is insufficient evidence to show that other types of decongestants are effective in alleviating nasal congestion.
Other brands that include oxymetazoline include:. Do not take decongestants if you have any of the following:.
Do not give decongestants to children under 6 years old. You should always talk to your healthcare provider about any medications you are currently taking and the possible interactions that can occur with introducing a decongestant or any medication, for that matter , even if it is available over the counter. Most decongestants are safe to use three to four times a day, but extended-release formulations are used once or twice a day.
Follow the advice of your healthcare provider and read label instructions in order to ensure safe and accurate dosing. Your healthcare provider and pharmacist can help you determine which drugs can be safely combined. Nasal sprays work faster than oral decongestants.
However, be aware that using them for longer than recommended can actually make your congestion worse. Decongestants may cause mild side effects. Some possible side effects of oral and nasal decongestants include:. Side effects that are specific to nasal sprays include:. More serious side effects that should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately include:.
Note that stroke and intracranial bleeding may also occur with decongestant use. Caffeine may enhance the stimulant effect and worsen side effects related to stimulants, such as nervousness and trouble sleeping. Looking to avoid getting the flu? Our free guide has everything you need to stay healthy this season.
Sign up and get yours today. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care. Treating acute sinusitis. Updated October 18, The role of infection and antibiotics in chronic rhinosinusitis. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol.
Updated February 15, They are only for short term use. Do not use them for longer than 7 days. If you use them for longer than this, a rebound more severe congestion of your nose can happen. Decongestants are not suitable for everyone. You should ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice if you have:. Intranasal decongestants containing oxymetazoline and xylometazoline should not be used in children aged less than two years old. There are other treatments that are safer to use. Last Updated: March 19, This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone.
Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject. Antihistamine medications help relieve or prevent allergy symptoms. Learn more about first-generation and second-generation antihistamines.
Sinusitis is when the lining of your sinuses are inflamed. Due to the swelling, mucus that travels from your…. Visit The Symptom Checker. Read More. What are OTC decongestants?
Is pseudoephedrine safe? Why is it sold behind the counter? Additional restrictions include: Limit on the amount you can purchase each month. You must show photo identification when purchasing the medicine.
Stores must record and keep personal information about customers who buy the medicine. Path to improved health How do decongestants work? How can I safely take OTC decongestants? Taking more than the recommended amount can be dangerous. Multiple medicines may have similar active ingredients that add up to be too much medicine.
How can I safely store OTC decongestants? Things to consider Like any medicine, decongestants can sometimes cause side effects.
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