DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Tetrahydrozoline nasal spray/drops

July 17, 2018

Tetrahydrozoline nasal spray/drops

What is this medicine?

TETRAHYDROZOLINE (tet-ra-hye-DROZ-oh-leen) is a decongestant. It is used to relieve a stuffy nose from allergies, colds, or sinus problems.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for use in the nose. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not use more often than directed. Make sure that you are using your nose spray or drops correctly.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While the nose spray may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years and the nose drops may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • fast, irregular heartbeat

  • feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

  • swelling inside the nose

  • tremors

  • unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • burning, stinging, dryness inside the nose

  • headache

  • trouble sleeping

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • diabetes

  • heart disease or hypertension

  • thyroid disease

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to tetrahydrozoline, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. Do not use this medicine for more than 3 days. Overuse will cause nasal congestion to come back or get worse.

Do not share this bottle with anyone else.

Updated:  

July 17, 2018