Vasoconstrictor Drops: A Trap of Addiction

Vasoconstrictor drops: friend or foe? 4 unexpected facts about the habit that is difficult to get rid of

Vasoconstrictor drops for the nose are one of the most popular and accessible ways to cope with nasal congestion. They are easy to find in any pharmacy, and many have become accustomed to using the remedy at the first signs of a runny nose.

However, in reality, these drops are a real trap for health.

How do vasoconstrictor drops work?

Their mechanism of action is based on the narrowing of the blood vessels of the nasal mucosa. The main active ingredients are adrenomimetics (for example, oxymetazoline, xylometazoline, naphazoline).

When we instill such means into the nose, they cause the vessels to contract, which reduces the swelling of the tissues and frees the airways. The effect occurs quickly - we feel relief within a few minutes.

The main problem is that vasoconstrictor drops eliminate only the symptom (stuffiness), but do not treat its cause. Moreover, their prolonged use can lead to undesirable consequences, of which many are not even aware.

Why does dependence arise?

It is of a physiological nature and is associated with the fact that regular use of these preparations disrupts the natural tone of the vessels.

Here's how it happens:

1. With frequent application of drops, the vessels in the nose get used to the action of the active substance and stop reacting to ordinary irritants.
2. The nasal mucosa begins to need regular stimulation to maintain normal blood flow. As a result, as soon as the action of the drops stops, the vessels expand again, causing even greater congestion - this phenomenon is called «rebound edema» (or drug-induced rhinitis).
3. A vicious circle arises: a person uses drops again to remove congestion, but with each subsequent use, the effect becomes shorter, and the dependence becomes stronger.

Fact 1. Dependence can occur as early as 3-5 days

Doctors warn that with a cold, vasoconstrictor preparations should not be used for more than 5 days. If congestion does not pass, this is a reason to consult a doctor, not to continue self-treatment.

Fact 2. Vasoconstrictor drops have a negative impact on the heart and blood vessels

Penetrating into the bloodstream, active substances can lead to undesirable consequences, such as increased blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and even headaches.

Fact 3. For children, vasoconstrictor drops can be dangerous

In young children, the nasal mucosa is more sensitive, and the body reacts more quickly to the action of preparations. The use of vasoconstrictor drops can cause serious side effects, up to respiratory depression and disruption of cardiac activity.

Fact 4. There are alternative ways to combat nasal congestion

For example, rinsing the nose with saline solutions, humidifying the air in the room (optimal values 40-60%), inhaling with herbs and essential oils, and using antihistamines (strictly according to the doctor's prescription).

Tips for those who have already developed a dependence on vasoconstrictor drops

1. Gradually reduce the dosage. Instead of abruptly stopping the use of drops, try to gradually reduce the dose and frequency of application.
2. Restore the nasal mucosa with hyaluronic acid preparations. The Olifrin spray with a natural composition is compatible with vasoconstrictor drops, helps to gently get rid of dependence, but does not cause it itself. Leading ENT specialists consider this original preparation to be the number 1 remedy for healing the nasal mucosa. It regenerates altered tissues, moisturizes the nasal cavity, preventing the appearance of congestion.
3. Consult a doctor. He may offer alternative treatment methods, such as prescribing corticosteroid sprays, which can help restore the function of the nasal mucosa and reduce swelling.