Decongestant
Decongestants are a type of medicine that are used to relieve nasal congestion in the upper respiratory tract. The active ingredient in decongestants is usually either pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine.
Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]
Decongestants work by constricting the blood vessels in the nose, which reduces the amount of blood flow to the area. This in turn reduces swelling and congestion.
Types of Decongestants[edit | edit source]
There are two main types of decongestants: oral decongestants and nasal decongestants.
Oral Decongestants[edit | edit source]
Oral decongestants are taken by mouth and are typically used to treat symptoms of a cold, allergies, or a sinus infection. They are available over-the-counter and by prescription.
Nasal Decongestants[edit | edit source]
Nasal decongestants are applied directly to the nasal passages. They are typically used to treat symptoms of a cold, allergies, or a sinus infection. They are available over-the-counter and by prescription.
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Like all medicines, decongestants can cause side effects. These can include:
Precautions[edit | edit source]
Decongestants should not be used by people with certain health conditions, including:
See Also[edit | edit source]
Decongestant Resources | |
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD