Otrivin Pediatric Nasal Drops (generic name is xylometazoline) is used for temporary relief of nasal congestion that may be caused by conditions such as cold or flu, sinus problems, and allergies. It may also be used to relief congestion in the ears or other conditions as determined by your practitioner.
It acts by constricting the blood vessels within the nose, which causes less swelling and congestion.
Serious side effects of azelastine may include wheezing, tightness in your chest, heart palpitations or pounding and trouble breathing. If you experience any of these serious side effects, you should stop using azelastine and call your doctor right away. Mild side effects of azelastine may include dry mouth, sore throat, burning in your nose, bloody nose, headache, drowsiness or dizziness, bitter taste in your mouth, nausea, cough, sneezing and red eyes. If you have any questions or concerns about the side effects of azelastine, you should talk to your doctor.
Basic decongestants like pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) or home remedies such as menthol products can provide relief from a stuffy nose or head. Keep a supply of the plain old little red Sudafed pills (generic pseudoephedrine) in your medicine cabinet. Also try the old-fashioned remedy of VapoRub. A dab of that on your neck and chest goes a long way toward clearing your head. A new product to try is Sudacare Shower Soothers. They are large tablets that you pop onto the floor of your shower, then as the water hits it, you are enveloped in a steam shower of menthol that works wonders on clearing your sinuses.
Cool mist humidifiers -- with or without any menthol product added -- can make a huge difference during the winter when your house is dried out from using the heater. Don't underestimate the relief these old-fashioned remedies can provide.
Zyrtec-D should be stored in the original packaging in an area that is out of the reach of children. It should also be kept in a cool and dry place.