Cold, Flu & Infections

Home |Health Centers |Cold, Flu & Infections |Cold & Infections Medications

Decongestants

- Summary
- About decongestants
- Types and differences
- Conditions treated
- Conditions of concern
- Potential side effects
- Drug or other interactions
- Symptoms of overdose
- Pregnancy use issues
- Child use issues
- Elderly use issues
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
David Slotnick, M.D.

Test Your Knowledge
-	Cold & Infections Medications Quiz
Quizzes A-Z

Symptoms of overdose with decongestants

Symptoms of overdose can be similar to the medication’s side effects, but are usually more severe. A severe overdose can result in a coma or death. Patients exhibiting any of these symptoms should contact their physician immediately:

Extreme fatigue
Sweating
Dizziness
Slow heartbeat

When decongestant nasal sprays are used more frequently or longer than recommended (usually more than three to five days), rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa) can result. This condition usually consists of nasal swelling and congestion, which are often the same symptoms the nasal spray was being used to treat. Once symptoms appear, they will often not subside even after nasal spray use is discontinued. For this reason, using nasal spray decongestants longer than directed can lead to a type of dependency. Individuals using nasal spray decongestants should be careful to follow the directions on the package and should use the sprays only when necessary.

Prev Page | page 8 of 11 | Next Page

Review Date: 06-13-2007

Related Health Topics

Video

More >

Scientists May Be Close to Developing a Single Universal Flu Shot
Robert Bazell (NBC Nightly News) reports on how soon treating the flu...

One Flu Vaccine For Everyone May Be Just Around the Corner
Researchers have engineered antibodies that protect against many...

New AIDS Drug
A new drug called Isentress may cut off HIV replication in infected patients.

Flu Shot FAQ
Should you get a flu shot? Doctors answer your questions.

Dr. Snyderman on Kids' Flu Shots
Dr. Nancy Snyderman talks with TODAY's Meredith Vieira about the new...

Should parents give their kids cold medicine?
People on the street share their thoughts.

Advice from Dr. Nancy Snyderman

Helpful tips and information on weight loss

Get answers from an expert

Living with Ulcerative Colitis

Get your symptoms under control

Follow tips from our expert

Copyright (c) 2000-2009 iVillage Inc. All rights reserved. The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.