Inhaler Nasal Decongestant Stick

1) What are the ingredients that can be found inside the inhaler nasal decongestant stick?

Inhaler nasal decongestant stick contains menthol, camphor, Siberian pine needle oil and methyl salicylate. 

Functions of each of the ingredients

Menthol: Provides cooling sensation for stuffy nose. (Active ingredients-provide relief for stuffy nose)

Camphor: Relieves itchness during allergy. (Active ingredients)

Siberian pine needle: Refreshes the air. (Active ingredients)

Methyl salicylate: It is an inactive ingredient (do not provide any relief for stuffy nose).

2) What is the inhaler nasal decongestant stick for?

It is used to temporarily ease breathing and relieve stuffy nose, either caused by cold or allergy, by inhaling the vapours into each nostril.

3) Who are the recommended users of the inhaler decongestant stick?

Only for adults and children 6 years and over. It is not recommended for children below 6 years old.

4) How do we use the inhaler nasal decongestant stick?

Use the inhaler nasal decongestant stick as many times as needed. 

Step 1   : Unscrew the cap of the inhaler stick.

Step 2   : Insert well into a nostril and hold the other nostril closed.

Step 3   : Inhale deeply to make breathing feel clear and cool.

5) Is the inhaler nasal decongestant stick addictive?

Menthol may not be as addictive as nicotine. It is an active ingredient which provides cool and fresh sensation. Some evidences have shown that it can act as a local anaesthetic (numb the particular area to relieve pain). However, the cooling and numbing sensation of menthol may lead to physical dependence for menthol-lovers to continue using the menthol-containing inhaler. Besides that, some users claimed to have worsening nasal congestant when discontinuing the inhaler, which lead to dependence.

In short, until today, it has very limited evidence that demonstrate the menthol in inhalers may possibly lead to addiction among users. Nonetheless, users may be dependent on the menthol-containing inhaler to attain the desired breathing-ease effect.

6) How do we store the inhaler nasal decongestant inhaler?

It is preferably to store it at room temperature, in a cool and dry place. Do not store above 25°c.

7) What are the other precautions that I should be aware with?

Ø  If the symptoms do not improve, worsen or persist, consult your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible.

Ø  If nasal discomfort occurs, stop using the inhaler stick and consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Ø  Do not use the inhaler stick after its expiry date or if you are known to be allergic to any of its ingredients.

Author:

Loh Pui Yee

BPharm (Hons) (IMU)

Editors:

Chang Jen Nee

BPharm (Hons) (IMU)

Jordy Wong Der Yuan

BPharm (Hons) (IMU)