Tetrahydrozoline nasal Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 9, 2023.

Applies to tetrahydrozoline nasal: nasal solution.

Serious side effects

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Chest pain or pressure, a fast heartbeat, or passing out.
A heartbeat that does not feel normal.
Shakiness.
Very bad headache.
Very bad dizziness.
Pale skin.
Sweating a lot.
Feeling sleepy.
Feeling very tired or weak.
Not able to sleep.

Other side effects

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

Sneezing.
Burning.
Stinging.
Dry nose.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to tetrahydrozoline nasal: nasal solution, nasal spray.

Respiratory

Rhinitis medicamentosa (RM) is attributed to chronic swelling of the nasal mucosa resulting in redness, swelling, and rhinitis. RM has been reported after too frequent, prolonged, or excessive doses. Treatment consists of gradual or abrupt withdrawal of therapy and substituting an orally administered decongestant in the interim (if indicated and appropriate).^[Ref]

Respiratory side effects have included rhinitis medicamentosa (rebound nasal congestion), transient burning, stinging, or dryness of the mucosa, and sneezing.^[Ref]

Nervous system

Nervous system side effects have included headache, weakness, drowsiness, tremors, light-headedness, insomnia, and sweating. Overdosage has resulted in drowsiness in adults.^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular side effects have included palpitations. Overdosage has resulted in hypertension, bradycardia, rebound hypotension, and a shock-like syndrome.^[Ref]