Xylometazoline is indicated in:

• Nasal congestion in colds, rhinitis, sinusitis, and headache
• Tubal block and serous otitis media associated with nasal congestion

Xylometazoline is a sympathomimetic agent with strong alpha-adrenergic activity intended for nasal use. It constricts nasal blood vessels, thereby reducing congestion of the nasal mucosa and surrounding pharyngeal regions. This helps patients with colds breathe more easily through the nose. The effect begins within minutes and lasts for several hours.

Nasal congestion occurs due to conditions such as rhinosinusitis, allergic rhinitis, or non-allergic rhinitis, leading to swelling of venous sinusoids in the nasal mucosa. Activation of alpha-adrenergic receptors causes vasoconstriction of nasal blood vessels and restores nasal airflow. In the human nasal mucosa, alpha-adrenergic receptors are highly expressed and play a key role in vasoconstriction. Xylometazoline acts as a selective agonist at these receptors, improving nasal airflow during both inspiration and expiration. Compared with oxymetazoline, xylometazoline has a slightly faster onset of action but similar duration. Relief of associated earache and sore throat has also been observed, likely due to improved nasal breathing and reduced mouth breathing, which prevents throat dryness and irritation.

Nasal Drop

• Adults: 0.1%: 2 or 3 drops in each nostril two to three times daily. 0.1% should not be used for children under the age of 12 years.
• Children 6 to 12 years of age: 0.05%: 2 or 3 drops in each nostril two or three times daily.
• Children less than 6 years of age: 0.05%: 1 drop in each nostril two or three times daily.
• Infants less than 3 months: Not to be used in infants less than 3 months.

Nasal Spray

• Children from 2–12 years old: 0.05%: 1 spray per nostril not more often than three times per day.
• Adults and adolescents (over 12 years of age): 0.1%: 1 spray into each nostril, 1 to 3 times daily as needed. Do not exceed 3 applications daily into each nostril. Or, as directed by the registered physician.

No drug interactions have been reported with Xylometazoline.

Xylometazoline nasal drops are contraindicated in patients with a history of transsphenoidal hypophysectomy or surgery exposing the dura mater. It is also contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to Xylometazoline. Each bottle should be used by only one person to avoid cross-infection. Prolonged use for more than seven consecutive days is not recommended.

Occasionally reported side effects include:

• Burning sensation in the nose and throat
• Local irritation
• Nausea
• Dryness of nasal mucosa

Pregnancy category C. Xylometazoline should not be used during pregnancy. Use during breastfeeding should only be done under medical supervision.

Xylometazoline 0.1% nasal drops for adults should not be used in children below 12 years. It should not be used for prolonged periods in chronic rhinitis. Long-term use may cause rebound congestion and drug-induced rhinitis.

Nasal antihistamine preparations

Protect from light. For hygiene reasons, do not use the bottle for more than 28 days after opening.