Oxymetazoline
Oxymetazoline is a topical alpha-adrenergic agonist that works by causing vasoconstriction of blood vessels. It is primarily used to temporarily relieve nasal congestion from colds, allergies, or sinus issues, and is also found in some eye drop formulations for redness relief.
Oxymetazoline is a topical vasoconstrictor used to temporarily relieve nasal and eye congestion.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D11AX22
- RxNorm
- 3264
- Generic
- Oxymetazoline
- Class
- atc-d11
- Brands
- Sinufrin Plus, Qlearquil Nasal Decongestant, Kovanaze, Rhofade, Afrin, Allerest 12 Hour Nasal Spray, Duramist Plus, Four-Way, Neo-Synephrine 12 Hour, Nostrilla, Sinex Long-Acting, Upneeq, Zicam Sinus Relief, Dristan 12-Hour Nasal Spray, Sudafed OM
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 6
- Onset (min)
- 10
- Duration (h)
- 12
- Routes
- nasal, ophthalmic, topical
- Forms
- nasal spray, nasal solution, ophthalmic solution, topical cream
- Regions
- United States, European Union, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia
- Monitoring
- blood pressure, heart rate, rebound congestion
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Temporary relief of nasal congestion due to colds, allergies, or sinusitis; also used in ophthalmic solutions for eye redness and sometimes prescribed topically for facial redness associated with rosacea.
Acts as a direct alpha-adrenergic agonist that stimulates vasoconstriction of blood vessels in the nasal mucosa or conjunctiva, reducing swelling and congestion.
Should not be used for more than 3-5 consecutive days to avoid rebound congestion or dependency. Avoid use in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, cardiovascular disease, or uncontrolled hypertension. May cause local irritation or dryness.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy