Dimetapp 12 Hour Nasal Spray

Generic Name: Oxymetazoline hydrochloride
Product Name: Dimetapp 12 Hour Nasal Spray

Indication

Dimetapp 12 hour spray is used to clear the nose and nasal passages when they are blocked due to a cold, allergy, the flu or other respiratory conditions. Dimetapp Nasal Spray may be given for another reason. If you have are unsure why you were given the nasal spray, please consult your doctor.

Action

Dimetapp 12 Hour Nasal Spray works to reduce the size of the blood vessels in your nose. This helps to decrease the swelling of the lining of your nose and reduce the production of mucous. This effectively reduces the congestion you feel.

Dose advice

• In adults and children over 5 years old: 2-3 sprays into each nostril. Repeat twice a day once in the morning and once at night.
• The use of the nasal spray for longer than 5 consecutive days may worsen your condition as your nose gets used to the medication. If you require longer treatment use the nasal spray for 5 days followed by a break for at least two days and then resume treatment.
• Do not share your nasal spray.

The correct method on how to use your nasal spray is as follows:

1. Nasal sprays are most effective after a warm shower or clearing (blowing) of the nose
2. The spray needs to be primed – this means spray into air until one spray has been released
3. Stand up looking at your feet
4. Place the nasal spray into one nostril pointing in the direction of your ear. Block the other nostril with your finger.
5. Spray one puff into your nose and inhale gently through your nose
6. Repeat this action 2-3 times then repeat in second nostril

If you have any queries about the correct way to use the nasal spray, please ask your doctor.

Schedule

Schedule 2

Common side effects

All medicines have side effects. Most commonly the side effects are minor, however, some can be more serious. Benefits of using Dimetapp 12 Hour Nasal Spray will often outweigh the side effects. Common side effects are those which occur in more than 1% of patients given Dimetapp 12 Hour Nasal Spray. These include:

• Local irritation such as burning or stinging
• Rebound congestion
• Sneezing
• Dry mouth and/or throat

Uncommon side effects

Uncommon side effects occur in less than 1% of patients. These include:

• Hypertension
• Tremors
• Insomnia
• Dizziness
• CNS effects
• Nausea
• Anxiety
• Headache

Consult your doctor if you experience any of the above symptoms, or any other unusual or abnormal symptoms that concern you.

References

1. Australian Medicines Handbook. Bonefos. [Monograph Online] AMH Pty Ltd 2007. [cited January 11, 2008] http://www.amh.net.au
2. Dimetapp 12 Hour Nasal Spray. MIMS Online [online]. 2003 [cited January 11 2008]. Available from:URL: http://mims.hcn.net.au.dbgw.lis.curtin.edu.au/ifmx-nsapi/mims-data/?MIval=2MIMS_abbr_pi&product_code=1405&product_name=Dimetapp+12+Hour+Nasal+Spray

For further information talk to your doctor.