Decongestants provide effective, short-term relief
for nasal congestion, whether as a symptom of a cold or influenza, sinusitis, an allergy, rhinitis or hay fever. Congestion causes a swelling of the tissues and blood vessels that line the nasal
passageway and sinuses, causing the nose to become blocked.
Decongestants work by reducing the swelling of the small blood vessels thus opening up the airways. The active ingredient of most decongestants available in the UK is either pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine - these usually become effective within half an hour. They can be purchased over the counter and are available in tablet or capsule form, as liquids, dissolvable powders, nasal drops or nasal sprays.
Be aware that whilst some products contain only the decongestant, others may also contain an analgesic such as ibuprofen or paracetamol to help reduce temperature and relieve aches and pains, or an antihistamine to reduce sneezing and dry up nasal secretions.
Decongestants are suitable for many people but should not be given to children under six years old and should only be given to children aged 6-12 years on the advice of a pharmacist or Doctor. They should be avoided, except on medical advice, by diabetics, those with high blood pressure, glaucoma, overactive thyroid, enlarged prostate or people with liver, kidney, heart or circulation problems. They have not been proven to be safe during pregnancy or breast-feeding.
Decongestants should only be used three or four times a day and generally for no longer than a week as this may cause rebound congestion, making stuffiness worse. Side effects are uncommon but may include headache or nausea.
Decongestant nasal drops and sprays may occasionally irritate the nasal lining, causing dryness or burning and oral or dry mouth. Often there will be no side effects at all and severe allergic reactions are extremely rare.
Decongestants can interact with other medications, such as a group of antidepressants called monoamine oxidase inhibitors which can be very dangerous, so always take care to ensure the medication is safe for you.
Decongestants work by reducing the swelling of the small blood vessels thus opening up the airways. The active ingredient of most decongestants available in the UK is either pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine - these usually become effective within half an hour. They can be purchased over the counter and are available in tablet or capsule form, as liquids, dissolvable powders, nasal drops or nasal sprays.
Be aware that whilst some products contain only the decongestant, others may also contain an analgesic such as ibuprofen or paracetamol to help reduce temperature and relieve aches and pains, or an antihistamine to reduce sneezing and dry up nasal secretions.
Decongestants are suitable for many people but should not be given to children under six years old and should only be given to children aged 6-12 years on the advice of a pharmacist or Doctor. They should be avoided, except on medical advice, by diabetics, those with high blood pressure, glaucoma, overactive thyroid, enlarged prostate or people with liver, kidney, heart or circulation problems. They have not been proven to be safe during pregnancy or breast-feeding.
Decongestants should only be used three or four times a day and generally for no longer than a week as this may cause rebound congestion, making stuffiness worse. Side effects are uncommon but may include headache or nausea.
Decongestant nasal drops and sprays may occasionally irritate the nasal lining, causing dryness or burning and oral or dry mouth. Often there will be no side effects at all and severe allergic reactions are extremely rare.
Decongestants can interact with other medications, such as a group of antidepressants called monoamine oxidase inhibitors which can be very dangerous, so always take care to ensure the medication is safe for you.
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