Topical decongestants in otorhinolaryngologist practice

The problem of long-term and uncontrolled use of decongestants remains one of the most relevant problems of modern otorhinolaryngology. To date vasoconstrictors are the most actively used drugs for the treatment of acute and chronic rhinitis, as well as other diseases accompanied by nasal congestion. Most of the topical decongestants are selective α2-adrenergic agonists that act on postsynaptic α2-adrenergic receptors, which perform the main function in the implementation of sympathetic stimuli in the nasal cavity. Sympathomimetic drugs in addition to the main vasoconstrictor effect also have their own anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Topical decongestants are included in the treatment guidelines for acute and chronic rhinitis, rhinosinusitis, allergic rhinitis, acute and chronic otitis media, eustachitis. The recommended duration of decongestants is usually limited to 5–7 days. Longer use of this drug class can lead to paresis of the nasal mucosa vessels or an allergic reaction, to the development of rhinitis medicamentosa. Side effects that occur with the use of topical decongestants are divided into 2 groups: local symptoms and general toxic reactions. However, with strict adherence to the recommended dosing regimen of topical decongestants, to the method of use and to the duration of use, undesirable side effects are rare. The group of vasoconstrictor drugs received a new development as a result of the combination of decongestants with other drugs, which lead to the reducing local side effects and the elimination of not only nasal congestion, but also other symptoms of the common cold.