AboutBarbara Judge Expertise Outpatient pharmacy and general health. I have recently completed a Pharmceutical Care Certificate Program offered by Purdue University (Spring 1999 completion). I have personal experience dealing with terminally ill persons and their needs, as well as their families` needs. I graduated in 1984 from Pharmacy School and have been a Licensed Pharmacist since then. I have 18 years retail pharmacy experience. Prior to my pharmacy training I have 3 years hospital experience as a Nurse`s Aide.
Question Hi,
Until I ran across the nasal sprays that contains oxymetazoline hydrochloride such as Afrin and generic formulas, I was plagued by almost complete nasal congestion, particularly at night. Of course the advisory is to not use such products more than a couple of days. Unrealistic, in light of the instant relief. The alternatives, such as saline solutions or menthol inhalers are something close to scams for all the good they do. Even prescription drugs I've tried over the years--I've forgotten the names--have not worked.
To your knowledge, in the past say 3 years, have any NEW drugs with any effect on sinus congestion made it through FDA? This is my specific and only question. I'm not going to waste my time again to go through all the tests and appointments if nothing new has been approved that I can go straight to and try it out.
Carl
Answer There are two new prescription nasal sprays for allergies and nasal congestion. One is a new drug called ciclesonide, brand name Omnaris. The second is fluticasone, brand name Veramyst. Fluticasone has been marketed in a slightly different form under the brand name Flonase. The dosing parameters are different between Veramyst and Flonase due to the difference in chemical make-up of the inactive portion of the drug molecule in solution.
It is also important for you to realize that while Afrin and other similar over the counter nasal decongestants may work the reason you are having persistent problems is because they cause rebound congestion if used for more than a few days. Afrin et all actually cause the problem they started out treating.
I would advise you to talk to your doctor about options to stop using Afrin or similar products on a regular basis.
