What is naphazoline?
Nasal naphazoline, or naphazoline hydrochloride, is a generic drug and anactive metabolite of sympathomimetic character, means that it is a stimulating agonist for the receptors of the sympathetic nervous system.
It is achieved in the presentation of ophthalmic solution in drops of 0.5 mg approximately, with the ophthalmic route of administration. Naphazolin doses range from 1 drop to 2 drops, every 3 to 4 hours a day.
Note: A medical study highlights the following information:“Naphazolin hydrochloride (2-(1-naphthymmethyl)-2-imidazoline monohydrochloride) is a potent alpha-adrenergic sympathomimetic agent. It is a vasoconstrictor with a rapid and prolonged action.” (1)
What is naphazoline for?
Naphazolin drops are used to create a vasoconstriction effect, which is whathelps increase or decrease blood flow, which can be favorable for irritated eyes. Specifically prescribed for:
1. Nasal congestion
Also called rhinorrhea, nasal congestion occurs due to inflammation in the the blood vessels surrounding the nasal smooth muscles , which can create excess phlegm, mucus, or secretions from them.
It has various causes, mainly due to allergies, the common cold, itching and irritation or inflammation due to contact with bacteria and viruses on the nasal walls.
To highlight: Naphazoline is responsible for making a constriction in the blood vessels, to reduce the thickening of the nasal walls and allow more blood or air to pass through (which would eliminate inflammation).
2. Eye irritation and allergic conjunctivitis
This type of irritation is popularly known as red eyes, which are not only the result of a specific disease, but also allergic reactions (such as seasonal rhinitis), dry eyes due to lack of tear production or sunlight damage.
On the other hand, eye irritation is also caused by conjunctivitis, which in turn is caused by external allergens such as mites, pollen or mold and can vary by season. It is an inflammation whose symptoms are congestion and nasal irritation or itching.
You should know: Ocular redness decreases with naphazoline, which inhibits increased blood flow (or greater dilation in blood vessels), since it is the biological way in which eye irritation is caused.
Naphazoline Side Effects
Naphazoline has certain reactions, which are common in the sympathetic nervous system and in the Central Nervous System, which can be uncomfortable during its first stage. Side effects of naphazoline include:
- Dizziness and headache.
- sweating.
- Nervousness.
- Vertigo.
- Fatigue.
Important: A study related to the drug mentions the following information: ” Consult your doctor if any of these effects persist or intensify : blurred vision and dilated pupils . ” (two)
contraindications of naphazoline
Naphazoline Can have unwanted reactions for certain patients or people with a delicate medical history, therefore it should not be administered in the following conditions:
- Hypersensitivity to the active metabolite.
- Patients with narrow-angle glaucoma.
- Hypertension.
- Diabetes mellitus.
- Sinusitis.
Key Findings
- Naphazoline is a rapidly absorbed medication and Active Principle with action on the sympathetic nervous system.
- Its use can be prescribed for seasonal allergies or conjunctivitis.
- Naphazoline may cause headache, dizziness, nervousness, and sweating as side effects .
- The use of naphazoline is not recommended for patients with cardiovascular disease or sinusitis.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.