A nasal vasoconstricting decongestant drug which acts by binding to the same receptors as adrenaline. It is applied as a spray or as drops into the nose to ease inflammation and congestion of the nasal passageways. It binds alpha-adrenergic receptors to activate the adrenal system which causes systemic vasoconstriction, thereby easing nasal congestion.
Indication
It is used for treating nasal congestion and minor inflammation due to allergies or colds.
Pharmacology
Xylometazoline is a direct acting sympathomimetic adrenergic alpha-agonist used to induce systemic vasoconstriction, thereby decreasing nasal congestion. The sympathomimetic action of xylometazoline constricts the smaller arterioles of the nasal passages, producing a prolonged (8-12 hours) decongesting effect.
References
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Haenisch B, Walstab J, Herberhold S, Bootz F, Tschaikin M, Ramseger R, Bonisch H: Alpha-adrenoceptor agonistic activity of oxymetazoline and xylometazoline. Fundam Clin Pharmacol. 2009 Dec 17.
[Pubmed]
