What is Otrivin used for?
Otrivin is used as a local vasoconstrictor for nasal decongestion. Its active substance, xylometazoline, is an arylalkyl imidazoline. Otrivin, which is intended for use in the nose, constricts the nasal blood vessels, thereby decongesting the mucosa of the nose and neighbouring regions of the pharynx. Otrivin thus makes it easier to breathe through the nose when suffering from a cold or chill.

The effect of Otrivin sets in within a few minutes and persists for up to 12 hours. Otrivin is well tolerated and it does not impair the function of the ciliated epithilium even when the the mucous membranes are sensitive. Otrivin is unlikely to cause reactive hyperaemia.

Otrivin is indicated for colds of various types, and to aid drainage of secretions in sinus conditions. In otitis media, Otrivin is an adjuvant to decongest the nasopharyngeal mucosa. Otrivin is also used to facilitate rhinoscopy.

Following the local application of Otrivin, the plasma concentration of the active substance is too low to be detected with current analytical method.
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When must Otrivin not be used?
Like other vasoconstrictors, Otrivin should not be used after a trans-sphenoidal hypophysectomy (nor after transnasal or transoral surgery in which the dura mater has been exposed), nor should it be used in case of dry rhinitis, acute angle glaucoma, or known hypersensitivity to the substances contained in the product.
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What precautions are required when using Otrivin?
Like all products belonging to the same class of active substances, Otrivin should be used with caution in patients suffering from hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and hyperthyroidism, in cases of excessive reactions to sympathomimetic agents, evidenced by insomnia, dizziness, etc.

As with other local vasoconstrictors, continuous and prolonged treatment of more than one week with Otrivin, e.g. in chronic rhinitis, is not advisable without medical advice: such treatment could induce congestion by a rebound effect.

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Can Otrivin be used during pregnancy or when breast feeding?
Considering its vasoconstrictive properties, as a precaution, Otrivin should be avoided during pregnancy. It should be used while breast feeding only if prescribed by a doctor. Studies in women or in animals are not available. Consequently, the medicine should be administered only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
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What undesirable side effects can Otrivin have?
There is rarely an occurrence of undesirable side effects. Nonetheles, the following rare side effects have been reported: a burning sensation in the nose and throat, local irritation, nausea, headaches and dryness of the nasal mucosa, as well as very rare cases of skin rash.
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Dosage:
Nasal drops 0.5‰ for infants and small children up to 6 years of age:
Usually, 1 to 2 drops of 0.5‰ solution, 1 to 2 times a day into each nostril, are sufficient. Do not exceed 3 applications a day.

Nasal drops 1‰ and nasal spray for adults and children over 6 years of age:
2 to 3 drops of 1‰ solution or spray into each nostril per application; 3 to 4 applications a day are usually sufficient.

Note:
Once the bottle pack is opened, the contents should be used for up to 1 month only.


Overdosage:
No cases of overdosage in adults have yet been reported. In rare instances of accidental poisoning in children, the clinical picture was dominated by the following symptoms: accelerated or irregular pulse, increased blood pressure and sometimes clouding of consciousness. If necessary, symptomatic treatment under medical supervision is indicated.
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Drug Interaction:
If used as recommended, systemic effects are negligible. However, some systemic effects of Otrivin may be enhanced if tricyclic or tetracyclic antidepressants are taken at the same time, especially in case of overdosage.
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Remarks:
Protect from heat. Store below 30 C.
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Packaging:
0.1% drops: bottle of 15 ml.
0.05% drops: bottle 15 ml.
0.1% menthol drops: bottle of 10 ml.
0.1% spray: bottle of 10 ml.
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