Otrivin Nasal Drops for Runny Nose: Effect

Brief overview

  • Active substance: xylometazoline hydrochloride
  • Indication: Rhinitis, sinusitis, tubal middle ear catarrh with rhinitis
  • Prescription required: No
  • Provider: GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare GmbH & Co. KG

Otriven rhinitis nasal drops during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

The manufacturer recommends that women not use Otriven Rhinitis Nasal Drops during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Always discuss the use of medication during pregnancy and breastfeeding with your gynecologist first.

Effect

The nasal drops have a decongestant effect on the nasal mucosa. For this purpose, the active substance xylometazoline contained in them binds to the alpha receptors. These are certain docking sites on the blood vessels of the nasal mucosa. When xylometazoline binds to them, the blood vessels constrict and the swollen nasal mucosa swells. As a result, the nose no longer feels blocked and it is easier to breathe through the nose again.

Like other medicines, Otriven nasal drops can sometimes cause dangerous side effects, although not everybody gets them to the same extent.

Common side effects include:

  • Nausea
  • Sneezing or nasal discomfort, such as a dry or burning nasal mucosa
  • Headache

Sometimes patients also notice the following side effects:

  • nosebleeds
  • a more blocked nose after the effect of Otriven Rhinitis Nasal Drops wears off

Rarely suffer from during use:

  • increased blood pressure
  • heart palpitations
  • rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)

In very rare cases, the following side effects occur:

  • allergic reactions: Affected persons have swelling of the skin and mucous membranes, skin rashes, or complain of itching
  • irregular heartbeat
  • sleep problems and restlessness
  • fatigue, including feeling sleepy or drowsy
  • poor vision for a short time

If you develop side effects (including any not listed here or in the package leaflet), you should talk to a doctor or pharmacist. You can learn more about possible side effects from the package leaflet and from your doctor or pharmacist.

When do Otriven Rhinitis Nasal Drops help?

Otriven rhinitis nasal drops are used to treat swollen nasal mucous membranes in adults and children aged twelve and over, such as those caused by the common cold, vasomotor rhinitis or allergic rhinitis.

It is also used to treat sinusitis and tubal middle ear catarrh associated with the common cold.

Frequently asked questions about Otriven rhinitis nasal drops

How often should Otriven Rhinitis Nasal Drops be taken?

Otriven Rhinitis Nasal Drops can be taken up to three times a day if needed.

Why not take Otriven Rhinitis Nasal Drops for more than 7 days?

How long does it take for Otriven Rhinitis Nasal Drops to work?

The effect of Otriven Rhinitis Nasal Drops usually starts after five to ten minutes.

What happens if I use too much Otriven Rhinitis Nasal Drops?

If Otriven Nasal Drops are overdosed, patients may suffer from hallucinations, convulsions or feel anxious. Sometimes they react sleepy, listless, have fever and get worse air. There is also a risk of respiratory arrest and coma.

How long can Otriven Rhinitis Nasal Drops be taken?

Otriven Rhinitis Nasal Drops can be used for a maximum of one week.