2023-07-13 09:30:00
You’ve probably had that annoying feeling of stuffy nose, which is caused by nasal congestion.
Faced with this symptom, which can be caused by allergies, flu and colds, many people turn to nasal decongestants in search of relief. However, this type of medicine requires some care and attention when using it.
And to help you understand how they work, the pharmaceutical forms, the contraindications, if it is harmful to health, among other information, keep following the article!
Table of Contents — In this article, you’ll find:
What is it for and when is it indicated?How it works?dosage formsAfter all, is nasal decongestant harmful? Vetch?Which nasal decongestant is not harmful?ContraindicationsRebound effect of nasal decongestantPrices and where to buy
What is it for and when is it indicated?
The nasal decongestant serves to relieve that stuffy nose feeling, called nasal congestion, in order to facilitate breathing.
They are mainly indicated for flu, colds, sinusitis and nasal allergies, conditions that cause, among other symptoms, congestion.
How it works?
Nasal decongestants have vasoconstricting agents, such as pseudoephedrine, phenoxazoline, phenylephrine and naphazoline, which cause contraction of blood vessels in the nasal mucosa. This reduces swelling and mucus production, thereby improving the patient’s breathing.
dosage forms
There are several forms of nasal decongestants. Among the main ones we can mention:
Spray
This is one of the most commonly used forms and consists of a liquid solution that is applied directly into the nostrils using a spray device. They provide quick relief from nasal congestion.
Pills/Capsules
Pills and capsules are taken by mouth and usually work on the body as a whole to reduce inflammation and nasal congestion.
Topical or decongestant balm
This class usually comes in the form of an ointment or gel with ingredients such as menthol, camphor and other agents that cause a cooling sensation and help relieve nasal congestion. Typically, they can also be rubbed on the back, chest, neck, or inhaled.
After all, is nasal decongestant harmful? Vetch?
The nasal decongestant brings temporary relief, but if used in the long term it can harm and cause unwanted side effects.
This is because its active principles can end up going into the bloodstream and reaching the cardiovascular system, offering the patient a risk of manifesting conditions such as hypertension, tachycardia, urinary retention, headaches, dizziness, insomnia, and arrhythmia.
In addition to overloading the heart, overuse of these medications can also lead to a phenomenon known as rhinitis medication, in which the nasal lining becomes dependent on medication to maintain patency.
Therefore, it is advisable to follow the instructions for use correctly and consult a health professional before starting to use any nasal decongestant.
Read more: Nasal wash: when it is indicated, how to do it and care
Which nasal decongestant is not harmful?
If used incorrectly and without a prescription, all nasal decongestants can be harmful.
However, a saline rinse is another option to help relieve nasal congestion and keep the nostrils hydrated.
Lactating and pregnant women can use?
Nursing mothers and pregnant women should be careful when using nasal decongestants and should always consult their doctors before taking any type of this medication. Only health professionals are able to assess the clinical condition of each woman in order to prescribe the appropriate drug.
It is important to consider the potential risks and benefits before using any medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding to ensure the safety of mother and baby.
Contraindications
Nasal decongestants are generally contraindicated in children under 6 years of age and also for people with health conditions such as:
Rebound effect of nasal decongestant
The rebound effect of nasal decongestants occurs when these medications are used for a long time or excessively.
Although initially they relieve the feeling of a stuffy nose, over time the congestion returns and the person feels the need to use the nasal decongestant again, with increasingly shorter intervals.
Such a habit can lead to the loss of the natural ability to expand and contract blood vessels, which makes the patient dependent on the medicine to be able to breathe smoothly.
Prices and where to buy
A Consultation Medicines, the largest medication marketplace in Brazil, is the best option for those who want to find medications at the best prices. On the platform, it is possible to compare the offers and access the package inserts of the medicines in an easy-to-understand language.
Check below the main nasal decongestants available in CR:
Rinosoro (spray), a partir de R$ 26,75 (100mL)*;Allegra D. (coated pills), from BRL 52.49 (120mg or 240mg)*;Vick Vaporub (topic) from BRL 10.90 (pot with 30g, 50g or 100g)*.
*Prices consulted in June 2023.
Nasal decongestant is a medicine used to relieve nasal congestion, reducing the swelling of nasal tissues and facilitating breathing.
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References
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