What Are the Side Effects of Oxymetazoline?

Oxymetazoline is a type of medication that is commonly available over the counter under a variety of brand names. Despite its effectiveness at relieving nasal congestion, oxymetazoline poses a risk for side effects in some patients.

Types of Common Side Effects

• The most common side effects of oxymetazoline are burning, dryness and stinging in your nose, increased nasal discharge and sneezing, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Time Frame

• The side effects of oxymetazoline are usually temporary and gradually diminish as your body becomes accustomed to the drug, reports Drugs.com.

Warning

• Despite the fact that it is available without a prescription, oxymetazoline is dangerous if taken more often than every 12 hours or at a dosage higher than recommended. Symptoms of an overdose of oxymetazoline include blurred vision, irregular heartbeat, drowsiness, hypertension, nervousness, trembling and weakness.

Risks

• Some patients develop serious allergic reactions to oxymetazoline, causing hives, difficulty breathing and swelling of the lips, face and extremities. Oxymetazoline also poses a slight risk for seizures or hallucinations.

Considerations

• Children are at a greater risk for side effects from oxymetazoline than other patients. If you have a history of type 2 diabetes, an enlarged prostate, glaucoma, heart disease, hypertension or hyperthyroidism, it may not be safe for you to take oxymetazoline, according to the Mayo Clinic.