Decongestant .. by Dr Duryab Jamil

1. Dr. Duryab Jamil
Decongestant ..

2. Decongestant ..
decongestant, or nasal decongestant, is a type of pharmaceutical drug that
is used to relieve nasal congestion in the upper respiratory tract. The active
ingredient in most decongestants is either pseudoephedrine or
phenylephrine (the latter of which has disputed effectiveness). Intranasal
corticosteroids can also be used as decongestants and antihistamines can
be used to alleviate runny nose, nasal itch, and sneezing ..

3. Regular use of decongestants for long periods should be avoided
because mucosal ciliary function is impaired: atrophic rhinitis and
anosmia (loss of the sense of smell) can occur due to persistent
vasoconstriction.
Decongestants can be absorbed from the nose via an inhaler and
produce systemic effects, mainly central nervous system stimulation
and rise in blood pressure. These drugs should be used cautiously in
hypertensives and in those receiving monoamine oxidase inhibitors
(MAOIs), as they can cause hypertensive crisis.
Expectorants such as guaifenesin are a related type of drug which help
to clear mucus ..

4. The mechanism by which decongestants produce their action is
activation of postjunctional alpha-adrenergic receptors found on
precapillary and postcapillary blood vessels of the nasal mucosa. Such
vasoconstriction decreases blood flow through the nasal mucosa and
results in shrinkage of this tissue ..
Mechanism of action ..

5. Common decongestants
include:
Afrin, Dristan, Vicks Sinex
(oxymetazoline)
Sudafed PE, Suphedrin PE
(phenylephrine)
Silfedrine, Sudafed, Suphedrin
(pseudoephedrine)

6. Some products that may interact with this drug are:
antihistamines applied to the skin (such as
diphenhydramine cream, ointment, spray), blood
pressure medications (especially guanethidine,
methyldopa, beta blockers such as atenolol, or calcium
channel blockers such as nifedipine) ..

7. Side effects of decongestants
feeling sleepy (look for non-drowsy medicines)
irritation of the lining of your nose.
headaches.
feeling or being sick.
a dry mouth.
feeling restless or agitated.
a rash.

8. How to use Decongestant oral
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. If you are
self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If you have
any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication may be taken with food if stomach upset occurs. Drink
plenty of fluids unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure
the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a
household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. If your
liquid form is a suspension, shake the bottle well before each dose.

9. Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets or capsules. Doing so can
release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do
not split extended-release tablets unless they have a score line and your
doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet
without crushing or chewing.
If you are using chewable tablets, chew each tablet thoroughly before
swallowing.
If you are using a product made to dissolve in the mouth (tablets/strips),
dry your hands before handling the medication. Place each dose on the
tongue and allow to dissolve completely, then swallow it with saliva or
with water.

10. Dosage is based on the product you are taking and your age, medical
condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take
this medication more often than directed without your doctor's approval.
Improper use (abuse) of this medication may result in serious harm (such as
hallucinations, seizure, death).
If your doctor directs you to take this medication daily, take it regularly to
get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same
time(s) each day.
Tell your doctor if your condition persists for more than 1 week, if it
worsens, or if it occurs with fever, rash, or persistent headache. These may
be symptoms of a serious medical problem and should be checked by a
doctor.

11. A few herbal treatments, especially menthol and
eucalyptus oil, can also help ease a stuffy nose.
Menthol, a derivative of peppermint oil, can be
found in inhaled balms and rubs for congestion ..
NATURAL DECONGESTANT

12. Decongestant nasal sprays (DNSs) provide immediate relief by
shrinking swollen blood vessels in your nasal passages. This
reduces the inflammation and helps you breathe easier. DNSs
are supposed to be used for a maximum of three days. If you
use them longer than that, they can cause rebound congestion.
What does nasal decongestant do?

13. Is it safe to take for a long time?
Decongestants should only be used
for a short time, usually less than 10
days. If you take them for longer,
you're more likely to get side
effects. Only take pseudoephedrine
for longer than 10 days if a doctor
has said it's OK ..

14. The longer you use a spray
decongestant, the more likely you
are to get the rebound phenomenon.
It can lead to chronic sinusitis and
other serious, long-term problems.
Give your doctor a call if you're
having any of these issues: It's all in
your nose.

15. While keeping your head upright, place
the spray tip into the open nostril. Spray
the medication into the open nostril as
you breathe in through your nose. Sniff
hard a few times to be sure the
medication reaches deep into the nose.
Repeat these steps for the other nostril
if needed.
How to use Nasal decongestant spray?

16. your nose and sinuses are stuffed up, a
decongestant may help. You can use it alone
or combine it with an antihistamine.
Remember, though, it can increase your heart
rate and may cause anxiety or make it hard to
fall asleep.

17. Antihistamine/Decongestant Combos
A.R.M
acrivastine/pseudoephedrine.
Actifed Cold and Allergy.
Alavert Allergy & Sinus D.
Alavert D-12.
Allegra D.
Allegra-D 12 Hour Allergy & Congestion.
Allegra-D 24 Hour Allergy & Congestion.

18. Who cannot take decongestants?
Some people should avoid taking decongestants. This
includes people who have:
Heart problems.
High blood pressure.
Kidney problems.
Diabetes.
Glaucoma.
An overactive thyroid gland.
Prostate problems.
Depression and are taking an MAOI antidepressant.

19. Thank you ..