Xylometazoline Drops

• Type: Nasal or ophthalmic decongestant (depending on formulation)

• Main Use: Relieves nasal congestion (blocked nose) or eye redness caused by irritation or allergies.

How It Works

• Xylometazoline is an alpha-adrenergic agonist (sympathomimetic).

• It causes vasoconstriction (narrows blood vessels) in the nasal mucosa or eye’s surface blood vessels.

• This reduces swelling, redness, and congestion, allowing easier breathing or clearing eye redness.

Common Uses

Nasal Drops/Spray:

• Common cold or sinusitis (to relieve stuffy nose)

• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)

• Nasal congestion after surgery

Eye Drops:

• Red eyes due to minor irritation, smoke, dust, or allergies

• Redness from mild conjunctival congestion

Advantages

• Works quickly (usually within minutes)

• Provides relief for several hours

• Helps open nasal passages, improving breathing and comfort

Possible Side Effects

• Temporary burning or stinging after application

• Dryness of the nasal passages or eyes

• Rebound congestion (if used too long — nose may become more blocked after stopping)

• Rare: increased heart rate, headache, nervousness (if absorbed systemically)

Precautions

• Should not be used for more than 5–7 days in a row (risk of rebound congestion or rhinitis medicamentosa).

• Use with caution in people with high blood pressure, heart disease, thyroid problems, or glaucoma.

• For children, only use the recommended strength and dose, as overdose can be dangerous.

• Avoid touching the dropper tip to keep it sterile.