Xylometazoline (XMZ)

Xylometazoline is a drug which is used as a topical nasal decongestant. It is applied directly into the nose, either as a spray or as drops. The drug works by constricting the blood vessels in the nose. The decongestant effect is due to constriction of large veins in the nose which swell up during the inflammation of any infection or allergy of the nose. The smaller arteries are also constricted and this causes the colour of the nasal epithelium to be visibly paler after dosage. Xylometazoline is an imidazole derivative which is designed to mimic the molecular shape of adrenaline. It binds to alpha-adrenergic receptors in the nasal mucosa. Due to its sympathomimetic effects, it should not be used by people with high blood pressure, or other heart problems. Extended usage of xylometazoline can result in decreased effectiveness or a build up of tolerance against the drug.