Decongestants Understanding the Usage and
Effectiveness of Over-the-Counter Nasal Relief Medicines

Uses and Types



Decongestants are commonly used over-the-counter medicines that help provide
relief from nasal congestion caused by illnesses like the common cold or
seasonal allergies. They work by constricting blood vessels in the nasal
passages, which helps drainage and allows more air to pass through. The two
most common types are oral that come as tablets, capsules, or liquids and nasal
sprays.



Oral Decongestants
are longer-lasting and provide relief for 4-12 hours but take 30-60 minutes to
take full effect. Popular oral contain active ingredients like pseudoephedrine,
phenylephrine, and oxymetazoline. Nasal sprays work much faster within 5-10
minutes but only provide temporary relief for 2-3 hours. Common nasal sprays
contain oxymetazoline and phenylephrine.



Mechanism of Action and Effectiveness



They work by constricting swollen blood vessels in the nasal passages during
congestion. This constriction of blood vessels decreases inflammation and fluid
buildup, opening up the nasal airways. Oral types are absorbed into the
bloodstream and carried to congested nasal tissues to cause vasoconstriction.
Nasal sprays work topically by direct application of the medication to the
nasal lining.



Multiple clinical studies have found it to be moderately effective at reducing
nasal congestion symptoms. A 2019 meta-analysis showed oral reduced congestion
slightly more than placebo pills. However, the effects are usually temporary,
and prolonged use is not recommended due to risk of rebound congestion. Nasal
sprays can effectively clear nasal passages within minutes but should not be
used for more than 3 days to prevent tolerance.

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