Medications for Sinus Drainage

Sinus drainage occurs when the sinuses create additional mucus to deal with allergies, pollutants and colds. This congestion builds up and thickens, creating a runny nose and sinus pressure.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of sinus drainage include pressure and swelling of the sinus cavities, which are located above the cheekbones and behind the eyes. Other symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing and post-nasal drip.

Relief

• Relief for sinus drainage comes in many forms; however, the most common are over-the-counter medications. Over-the-counter medications treat the congestion, pain and swelling associated with sinus drainage.

Non-Medicated Nasal Spray

• Non-medicated saline nasal sprays have been determined to be the safest sinus drainage remedy available. It is nothing more than salt water that is offered in a container that makes it possible to get the solution into the sinus cavities. The saline flushes the excess secretions out of the sinuses, which prevents infection and provides relief from the pressure.

Medicated Nasal Spray

• Medicated nasal sprays offer the most immediate results. The medication in the spray reduces the swelling in the lining of the nasal cavity and dries up the excess secretions.

Antihistamine

• Oral medications belonging to the antihistamine group, such as diphenhydramine and chlorpheniramine, reduce sinus drainage by reducing the amount of mucus in the sinuses. These medications actually help runny nose symptoms.

Decongestants

• Decongestants help to relieve sinus congestion and pressure by reducing the amount of blood that flows. However, these medications do not help with runny nose symptoms.