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Compare Oxymetazoline vs. Phenylephrine

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

  • Oxymetazoline (Afrin)
    Phenylephrine eye drops
  • Oxymetazoline (Afrin)
    Phenylephrine eye drops

  • Summary of Oxymetazoline vs. Phenylephrine

    Summary for Alpha adrenergic receptor agonist

    Oxymetazoline (Afrin) is a nasal decongestant spray. More specifically, it's an alpha-1 receptor agonist. Oxymetazoline (Afrin) is sprayed into the nostrils up to twice daily to help relieve stuffy noses. But you should avoid using it for longer than 3 days in a row because doing so can raise the risk for rebound congestion. There are oxymetazoline products for children and adults that differ in dosage, so read the label on your specific product to make sure it's appropriate for you. Some side effects of this medication might include mild burning or stinging in the nose.

    Summary for Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Prescription only

    Phenylephrine eye drops are used to dilate (widen) pupils for eye exams or certain eye procedures. Side effects include temporary burning or stinging in the eye, blurry vision, and possibly raise your blood pressure. Let your provider know if your pregnant or breastfeeding because you might need to use a different medication.

  • Indications of Oxymetazoline vs. Phenylephrine

    Indications for
    •Short-term relief of nasal and sinus congestion and pressure
    Indications for
    •Dilate (widen) pupils

  • Pros and Cons of Oxymetazoline vs. Phenylephrine

    Pros and Const for Alpha adrenergic receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Starts working within minutes and lasts for up to 12 hours
    •Typically fewer side effects than oral decongestants
    •Children's product can be used by those as young as 2 years old (check product labeling)
    •Available over the counter and as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Some nasal spray might drip out of nose, which can be messy
    •Can't use longer than 3 days due to rebound congestion
    •Might not be a good choice for people with high blood pressure
    •Not recommended during pregnancy
    Pros and Const for Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Can be used in adults and children
    •Starts working quickly (within 15 minutes)
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    Cons
    •Can cause eye pain and stinging
    •Dilating effects can last for up to 7 hours (or longer)
    •The 10% strength can raise blood pressure in people with certain heart or thyroid problems

  • Common Side Effects of Oxymetazoline vs. Phenylephrine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Burning in the nose
    •Stinging in the nose
    •Rebound nasal congestion (if using longer than 3 days)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Temporary stinging or burning in your eye
    •Temporary blurry vision
    •Sensitivity to light

  • Warnings of Oxymetazoline vs. Phenylephrine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Rebound congestion
    •Might not be safe for people with certain medical conditions
    •For use in the nose only
    Common Side Effects for
    •For use in the eyes only
    •Heart problems
    •High blood pressure
    •Rebound pupil constriction

  • Prices with our coupons for Oxymetazoline vs. Phenylephrine

    Learn more about Oxymetazoline
    Learn more about Phenylephrine eye drops

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