Decongestant
Decongestant
A Decongestant (/diːkənˈdʒɛstənt/) is a type of pharmaceutical drug that is used to relieve nasal congestion in the upper respiratory tract. The active ingredient in decongestants is usually either pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine.
Etymology
The term "decongestant" is derived from the Latin words "de" meaning "from" or "out of" and "congestus" meaning "to gather together" or "accumulate". This refers to the drug's ability to reduce the accumulation of fluids in the nasal passages.
Usage
Decongestants are primarily used to treat the symptoms of nasal congestion due to a cold or allergy. They work by constricting the blood vessels in the nasal passages, thereby reducing swelling and mucus production.
Types of Decongestants
There are two main types of decongestants: oral decongestants and nasal decongestants. Oral decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, are taken by mouth. Nasal decongestants, such as oxymetazoline and xylometazoline, are applied directly to the nasal passages.
Side Effects
Common side effects of decongestants include restlessness, insomnia, and increased heart rate. In rare cases, decongestants can cause high blood pressure and irregular heart rhythms.
Related Terms
- Antihistamine: A type of drug that is often used in combination with decongestants to treat the symptoms of allergies.
- Expectorant: A type of drug that is used to loosen mucus in the lungs and make it easier to cough up.
- Bronchodilator: A type of drug that is used to relax and open the airways in the lungs.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Decongestant
- Wikipedia's article - Decongestant
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