AFRIN 0.025% PAEDIATRIC Nasal Drops

What is AFRIN 0.025% PAEDIATRIC

AFRIN 0.025% Paediatric Nasal Drops is a medicated nasal spray formulated specifically for children. Its active ingredient is Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride, a topical decongestant used to relieve nasal congestion caused by colds, allergies, or sinus infections. It works by shrinking swollen nasal mucous membranes, allowing easier breathing through the nose.

Key points about AFRIN 0.025% Paediatric Nasal Drops include:

• Intended use: Primarily for children to relieve nasal congestion safely and effectively.
• Formulation: The 0.025% concentration is lower than adult formulations, making it safer for pediatric use.
• Symptom relief: Provides fast relief from nasal blockage, helping improve airflow and comfort.
• Non-systemic: Acts locally in the nasal passages with minimal systemic absorption.
• Indications: Commonly used for nasal congestion associated with cold, flu, allergies, or sinusitis in children.
• Over-the-counter availability: Often available without a prescription, but should be used with care and under guidance for children.
• Duration of use: Recommended for short-term use (generally not more than 3 consecutive days) to avoid rebound congestion.

How to use AFRIN 0.025% PAEDIATRIC

Proper administration of AFRIN 0.025% Paediatric Nasal Drops is crucial for safety and effectiveness. Here are guidelines and tips:

• Preparation: Before use, gently blow the child’s nose to clear nasal passages if possible.
• Positioning: Have the child tilt their head slightly backward or lie down with the head tilted back to allow the drops to reach deep into the nasal passages.
• Dosage per administration: Typically, 1 to 2 drops in each nostril are sufficient. Avoid exceeding recommended doses.
• Application frequency: Use the drops up to 2-3 times daily, with at least 8 hours between doses.
• Avoid contamination: Do not touch the tip of the dropper to the nostrils or any surface to prevent contamination.
• Duration of treatment: Use only for 3 consecutive days unless otherwise advised by a healthcare professional to prevent rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa).
• Consultation: If symptoms persist beyond 3 days or worsen, seek medical advice.
• Storage during use: Keep the bottle tightly closed and store as recommended (see storage section).

Mode of Action AFRIN 0.025% PAEDIATRIC

The active compound in AFRIN 0.025% Paediatric Nasal Drops is Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride, a selective alpha-adrenergic receptor agonist. Its mechanism of action involves the following:

• Alpha-adrenergic receptor stimulation: Oxymetazoline selectively stimulates alpha-1 adrenergic receptors located in the smooth muscle of nasal blood vessels.
• Vasoconstriction: Activation of these receptors causes constriction of dilated blood vessels in the nasal mucosa, reducing blood flow to the swollen areas.
• Reduction of swelling: Vasoconstriction decreases the swelling of nasal mucous membranes, which leads to the opening of nasal passages.
• Improved airflow: By shrinking swollen tissues, the drug relieves nasal congestion and improves airflow, making breathing easier.
• Local effect: The drug acts locally on nasal tissue with minimal systemic absorption, thus limiting systemic side effects when used as directed.
• Onset and duration: The effect usually begins within minutes and lasts for up to 10-12 hours, providing fast and lasting relief.

AFRIN 0.025% PAEDIATRIC Interactions AFRIN 0.025% PAEDIATRIC

Though AFRIN is primarily a topical agent with minimal systemic absorption, it can still interact with certain drugs or medical conditions. Important interactions to consider include:

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Concurrent use can increase the risk of hypertension due to potentiation of sympathomimetic effects.
• Other sympathomimetic drugs: Combining with systemic decongestants or stimulants may enhance cardiovascular side effects such as increased blood pressure or heart rate.
• Beta-blockers: May reduce the effectiveness of beta-blockers when vasoconstrictors are used concurrently.
• Tricyclic antidepressants and other antihypertensives: Use with caution as these may interact and lead to unpredictable blood pressure changes.
• Children with cardiovascular disease: May be more sensitive to systemic effects; use only under medical supervision.
• Other nasal products: Using multiple nasal sprays simultaneously may increase the risk of local irritation or systemic effects.

Always inform healthcare providers about all medications and supplements the child is taking before starting AFRIN nasal drops.

Dosage of AFRIN 0.025% PAEDIATRIC

The dosage of AFRIN 0.025% Paediatric Nasal Drops should be carefully followed to maximize benefits and minimize risks:

• Recommended dose: Generally, 1 to 2 drops per nostril are sufficient for children.
• Frequency: Administer up to 2 to 3 times per day.
• Duration of therapy: Do not exceed 3 consecutive days of use to avoid rebound congestion.
• Adjustments: Dosage may vary based on age and severity of congestion; always follow pediatrician recommendations.
• Overuse risks: Excessive or prolonged use can lead to rhinitis medicamentosa (rebound nasal congestion), dependency, and mucosal damage.
• Administration tips: Use only the prescribed amount; avoid doubling doses if a dose is missed.
• Consultation: If congestion persists beyond 3 days, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Possible side effects of AFRIN 0.025% PAEDIATRIC

While generally safe when used as directed, AFRIN 0.025% Paediatric Nasal Drops may cause some side effects, including:

• Local irritation: Burning, stinging, dryness, or sneezing after application.
• Nasal dryness or crusting: Prolonged use may cause dryness or crust formation in nasal passages.
• Rebound congestion: Use longer than 3 days may lead to worsening congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa).
• Rare systemic effects: Headache, dizziness, increased blood pressure, or palpitations, especially if used excessively or in sensitive individuals.
• Allergic reactions: Though rare, hypersensitivity reactions like rash, itching, or swelling may occur.
• Sleep disturbances: Occasionally reported, possibly due to systemic sympathomimetic effects.
• Children’s sensitivity: Pediatric patients may be more sensitive to side effects; monitor closely for unusual symptoms.

In case of severe side effects or allergic reactions, seek immediate medical attention.

AFRIN 0.025% PAEDIATRIC Contraindications AFRIN 0.025% PAEDIATRIC

AFRIN 0.025% Paediatric Nasal Drops should not be used in the following situations:

• Hypersensitivity: Known allergy or hypersensitivity to Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride or any other component of the formulation.
• Nasal trauma or surgery: Recent nasal surgery, trauma, or severe nasal inflammation may contraindicate use.
• Severe hypertension or cardiovascular disease: Use with caution or avoid due to potential systemic sympathomimetic effects.
• Infants under 6 years: Safety has not been established for children below a certain age; use only under strict medical supervision.
• Use with MAO inhibitors: Concurrent use contraindicated due to risk of hypertensive crisis.
• Chronic nasal congestion: If congestion is persistent or associated with underlying conditions like nasal polyps, consult a healthcare provider before use.

Storage of AFRIN 0.025% PAEDIATRIC

Proper storage ensures the efficacy and safety of AFRIN 0.025% Paediatric Nasal Drops:

• Temperature: Store at room temperature, ideally between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F).
• Light protection: Keep the bottle away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent degradation of the active ingredient.
• Moisture: Store in a dry place to avoid contamination or spoilage.
• Cap tightness: Always tightly close the bottle after each use to maintain sterility and prevent evaporation.
• Keep out of reach: Ensure that the medicine is kept out of reach of children to avoid accidental misuse or overdose.
• Expiration: Do not use beyond the expiration date indicated on the packaging.
• Disposal: Properly dispose of unused or expired medication according to local regulations or pharmacy guidance.