Oxymetazoline Ophthalmic Side Effects
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 22, 2025.
Applies to oxymetazoline ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution.
It is very important that your eye doctor (ophthalmologist) check your or your child's progress at regular visits to make sure this medicine is working properly. Blood tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.
This medicine may cause blood vessel problems, including changes in your or your child's blood pressure. Your or your child's blood pressure might get too high or too low while using this medicine. This may cause headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, or blurred vision. You might need to measure your or your child's blood pressure at home. If you think your or your child's blood pressure is too high or too low, call your doctor right away.
This medicine may increase your or your child's risk of having an eye problem called angle-closure glaucoma. Check with your doctor right away if you or your child have eye pain, blurred vision, or other changes in vision.
Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or non-prescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.
Serious side effects
Along with its needed effects, oxymetazoline ophthalmic may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking oxymetazoline ophthalmic:
Less common side effects
- blurred vision
- painful irritation of the clear front part of the eye
- redness of the white part of the eyes or the inside of the eyelids
Other side effects
Some side effects of oxymetazoline ophthalmic may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
Less common side effects
- dry eye
- headache
- pain at the instillation site
See also:
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Further information
Oxymetazoline ophthalmic side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.
