Side effects | Otrives

Side effects

As with other drugs, Otriven® can also cause adverse drug reactions. The most common side effect is an increasing swelling of the nasal mucosa after the active ingredient has subsided. Occasional side effects include Sneezing, nosebleeds, blood pressure increase, palpitations, heart palpitations, skin rash or itching.

More rarely, headaches, insomnia or fatigue occur after using Otriven®. Also worth mentioning are adverse drug reactions, which occur very rarely: Hallucinations or cramps are very rare in children. Burning or dryness of the nasal mucosa may occur if used too long, frequently or in high doses.

The nasal mucosa may also swell more. The appearance occurs with the so-called rhinitis medicamentosa. Increased use of medication triggers these symptoms.

If the drug is not discontinued after the onset of these symptoms, permanent damage (bark formation) to the nasal mucosa may occur after continued use. The clinical picture is also known as rhinitis sicca. If side effects occur, these should be reported to the doctor.

The doctor decides on the countermeasures that should be taken. If side effects occur suddenly or develop strongly, such as an excessive rise in blood pressure, severe headaches or a hypersensitivity reaction, you should inform a doctor immediately. Quick action is important to avoid any serious consequences.

Interactions

The attending physician should be aware of any medication that has been taken currently or recently. Caution is advised when taking Otriven® and mood-altering drugs such as MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants, as well as blood pressure-increasing drugs, at the same time. This can lead to a serious increase in blood pressure.

Overdose

The clinical picture of xylometazoline hydrochloride poisoning is varied. Phases of activation may overlap with phases of inhibition of the central nervous system. Especially in children, excessive doses may lead to convulsions, coma, slow pulse or respiratory arrest.

Rapidly occurring high blood pressure is in turn quickly replaced by a drop in blood pressure. Other signs of overdose are hallucinations, anxiety, agitation, pupil constriction (myosis), pupil dilation (mydirasis), fever, sweating, paleness, nausea or vomiting, heart rhythm disturbances. In case of poisoning with Otriven®, a doctor must be informed immediately. Treatment as soon as possible and monitoring in hospital are necessary.