Products
Oxymetazoline cream was approved in the United States in 2017 (Rhofade, 1%). Oxymetazoline is also available as a nasal spray at a lower concentration (Nasivin); see Oxymetazoline.
Structure and properties
Oxymetazoline (C16H24N2O, Mr = 260.4 g/mol) is present in drugs as oxymetazoline hydrochloride, a white crystalline powder that is readily soluble in water. It is an imidazoline derivative.
Effects
Oxymetazoline has sympathomimetic, vasoconstrictor, and anti-inflammatory properties. The effects are due to agonism at the α1A-adrenoceptor. Oxymetazoline is primarily a vasoconstrictor, but anti-inflammation also appears to be involved in the effect.
Indications
For the external treatment of rosacea.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The cream is applied once a day.
Contraindications
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include local skin reactions such as dermatitis, exacerbation of existing inflammatory lesions, itching, redness, and pain.