Nasal drops

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Nasal drops are a dosage form for liquid preparations for use in the nose. The liquid is introduced into the nose with a suction pipette, single-dose pipette or a dosing pump.

Nasal drops are used in the local therapy of colds and in the regeneration treatment and care of the nasal mucous membrane. Some preparations are specially designed for babies and toddlers, as nasal sprays are not suitable for this age group.

Decongestant nasal drops

Sympathomimetics , which have a vasoconstrictor effect, are used to decongest the nasal mucosa . They are suitable for short-term therapy (no longer than seven days, no more than three times a day). If this period is exceeded, a rebound effect can occur. This effect can lead to chronic use of nasal drops; Undersupply of the nasal mucosa and its damage are the result ( drug rhinitis ). Nasal drops are available in different dosages depending on the patient's age. The most common active ingredients in Germany are xylometazoline and oxymetazoline . Some preparations contain preservatives .

Regenerating and nourishing nose drops

Various substances and preparations are used for the regeneration and care of the nasal mucosa.

  • Hyaluronic acid is an endogenous substance that is able to bind water strongly. Nasal drops containing hyaluronic acid are used to keep the nasal mucous membrane moist.
  • Solutions with table salt in physiological ( isotonic ) concentration also serve to moisten the nasal mucosa. They also help a "blocked nose" to free nasal mucus, which frees nasal breathing again. Instead of table salt, sea or mineral salt is also used. In rare cases, minor irritation symptoms such as burning and tingling in the nose and headaches may occur as side effects; there is no habituation like with excessive use of sympathomimetics. The drops can also be used on babies.
  • Nasal drops containing essential oils activate the cold receptors, which gives a feeling of refreshment; in addition, they are easy to disinfect. They are not suitable for babies and toddlers, but mostly only for children from 3 years.
  • Vitamin A and vitamin E are said to have a healing and regenerative effect on the damaged nasal mucosa and the ciliated epithelium .

Individual evidence

  1. ^ A b Ernst Mutschler : Mutschler drug effects: textbook of pharmacology and toxicology , Deutscher Apotheker Verlag Stuttgart, 2008, ISBN 978-3-8047-1952-1 .
  2. a b Gebler / Kindl: Pharmacy for Practice Deutscher Apotheker Verlag Stuttgart, 2013, ISBN 978-3-7692-4790-9 .
  3. Manufacturer information on hysan.de , (accessed October 27, 2013).
  4. Manufacturer information on emser.de , (accessed October 27, 2013).