Ephedrine Hydrochloride 0.5% Nasal Drops

How it works

Ephedrine stimulates alpha-adrenergic receptors on nasal mucosal blood vessels, causing vasoconstriction that reduces mucosal swelling and congestion.

Prescribing in practice

• Use should be limited to a few days only, as prolonged topical decongestant use causes rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa).
• Use cautiously in patients with hypertension, hyperthyroidism, ischaemic heart disease or diabetes given the sympathomimetic effects.
• Avoid concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors because of the risk of a hypertensive reaction.

Monitoring

No specific laboratory monitoring is needed; review if congestion persists or rebound symptoms develop after short-term use.

Counselling the patient

• Use only for a few days at a time to avoid worsening, rebound stuffiness.
• Do not share the dropper bottle with others to prevent cross-infection.
• Tell the pharmacist if you take medicines for blood pressure, the heart or depression.

Evidence & guidelines

Topical decongestants give effective short-term symptomatic relief of nasal congestion but are not recommended for prolonged use, consistent with standard UK prescribing references.