Xylometazoline
Xylometazoline is a topical nasal decongestant that provides temporary relief from nasal congestion caused by colds, allergies, or sinus inflammation. It works by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing swelling and allowing easier breathing through the nose.
Xylometazoline is a nasal decongestant spray or drops that relieves stuffy nose by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- R01AA09
- RxNorm
- unknown
- Generic
- Xylometazoline
- Class
- atc-r01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 2
- Onset (min)
- 5
- Duration (h)
- 8
- Routes
- ophthalmic, nasal, oral
- Forms
- nasal spray, nasal drops, eye drops, oral tablets
- Regions
- Europe, Australia, Asia, New Zealand, South Africa
- Monitoring
- blood pressure
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.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 2-3 drops or 1-2 sprays per nostril
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 8-10 hours as needed, max 3 doses daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 1-2 drops or 1 spray per nostril (0.025% solution)
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 8-10 hours as needed, max 3 doses daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 1-2 drops or 1 spray per nostril
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 8-10 hours as needed, max 3 doses daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
limit use to short-term only if absolutely necessary
monitor blood pressure and fetal wellbeing
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid
do not use while breastfeeding as it may pass into breast milk
observe infant for irritability or sleep disturbances
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
infants under 2do not use
contraindicated in infants under 2 years due to risk of severe toxicity including bradycardia and respiratory depression
emergency medical attention if exposed
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
children 2 12use lower concentration only
use only under medical supervision and for limited duration maximum 3 days
monitor for signs of systemic absorption
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderly 65 plususe lowest effective dose
use with caution due to increased sensitivity to vasoconstrictive effects monitor for cardiovascular effects
monitor blood pressure and heart rate
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild moderatestandard dose
use with caution as topical but minimal systemic absorption
no specific monitoring required
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild moderatestandard dose
use with caution due to potential for systemic absorption in impaired liver function
observe for any systemic effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information
Drug class
Drug class information
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses
Mechanism of action
Pharmacological action
Relief of nasal congestion associated with the common cold, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, and other upper respiratory conditions. Also used to reduce swelling before medical examinations of the nasal passages.
Xylometazoline is an alpha-adrenergic agonist that causes vasoconstriction (narrowing) of blood vessels in the nasal mucosa when applied topically. This reduces blood flow to the swollen nasal tissues, decreasing congestion and opening the airways.
For short-term use only (typically 3-5 days maximum) to avoid rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa). Avoid contact with eyes. Not recommended for children under 6 years old without medical advice. Use cautiously in patients with hypertension, heart disease, or thyroid disorders. Discontinue if symptoms worsen or no improvement occurs after 3 days of use.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
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 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy