Ephedrine Nasal Drops

Ephedrine Nasal Drops
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How It Works

Ephedrine in nasal drops helps by narrowing the enlarged blood vessels in the nose, which are often caused by sinus infections, upper respiratory illnesses, or allergies. This action helps improve airflow through the nasal passages.

 

Indications

Used to relieve nasal congestion due to sinus infections, upper respiratory illnesses, or allergic reactions.

 

Contraindications

Ephedrine nasal drops should not be used by individuals with a history of nasal or sinus surgeries. Special care should be taken in patients with heart conditions like cardiomyopathy, irregular heartbeats, ischemic heart disease, or other medical issues like hyperthyroidism, angle-closure glaucoma, or urinary retention.

 

Side Effects

Some possible side effects include nasal stuffiness, damage to the nasal lining, nosebleeds, dryness, discomfort, or a burning feeling in the nose.

 

Types

The nasal drops are available in 0.5% and 1% concentrations.

 

Dosage

Adult dosage:

1-2 drops in each nostril as required, up to 4 drops daily (maximum duration: 7 days).

Children dosage:

For children aged 12 and older: Same as adult dosage.

How to use:

  • Clear your nose by blowing it first.

  • Gently tilt your head back, twist the nasal dropper, and instill the medication.

  • Stay in this position for a few seconds to allow the drops to spread across the nose.

 

Safety

Pregnancy:

Ephedrine nasal drops are classified as FDA Category C (animal studies have shown harm to the fetus, but no well-controlled human studies exist). Therefore, potential benefits and risks must be carefully considered, and the medication should only be used during pregnancy if necessary.

 

Drug Interactions

Sympathomimetics

Medications with sympathomimetic effects, like phenylpropanolamine and pseudoephedrine, should be used with caution, as combining them with ephedrine nasal drops may increase the risk of side effects.

Theophylline

Using theophylline alongside ephedrine nasal drops can increase the chances of experiencing nausea, insomnia, and nervousness.

 

Looking for more information about other drugs? Click here!

 

Writer : dr Apri Haryono Hafid
Editor :
  • dr Hanifa Rahma
Last Updated : Monday, 11 August 2025 | 22:53

Badan Pengawas Obat dan Makanan. Dekongestan nasal topikal. Available from: https://pionas.pom.go.id/ioni/bab-12-telinga-hidung-dan-tenggorok/122-obat-yang-bekerja-pada-hidung/1222-dekongestan-nasal 

Mims Indonesia. Epedhrine. Retrieved 12 January 2022, from: https://www.mims.com/indonesia/drug/info/ephedrine?mtype=generic 

 

Patient Info. Ephedrine for nasal congestion. Retrieved 12 January 2022, from: https://patient.info/medicine/ephedrine-for-nasal-congestion