Otrivin is a brand product that contains Xylometazoline, which is a class of medication called sympathomimetics. It works by constricting blood vessels, particularly in the nose, to open up the nostrils. It is therefore used to treat nasal congestion. Otrivin works very quickly due to its formulation and can last for up to 10 hours.
Otrivin is available as nasal sprays and nasal drops. Otrivin 0.1% is indicated for adults/children above 6 years of age, while Otrivin 0.05% is indicated for children between 2-6 years of age.
For adults and children above 6 years of age
Nasal spray 0.1%: spray 1 puff to each nostril 3-4 times a day.
Nasal drops 0.1%: apply 2-3 drops to each nostril 3-4 times a day.
For children between 2-6 years of age
Nasal spray 0.05%: spray 1 puff to each nostril 1-2 times a day. Do not exceed three times a day.
Nasal drops 0.05%: apply 1-2 drops to each nostril 1-2 times a day. Do not exceed three times a day.
Common side effects of Otrivin include dry nose and nasal discomfort.
Common dosing schedule:
For nasal spray, spray 1 puff to each nostril 3-4 times a day. For nasal drops, apply 2-3 drops to each nostril 3-4 times a day.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Otrivin may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Otrivin is an over-the-counter medicine and can be purchased without a prescription from any retail outlet in Hong Kong. This includes grocery stores, convenience stores, medicine shops, and pharmacies. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Otrivin in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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