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More from Natrol

Other strengths and forms by Drug International Unani Ltd.

Indications & Uses

Pharmacology

Nasal congestion arises from several causes, including rhinosinusitis and allergic or non-allergic rhinitis, all of which lead to swelling of the venous sinusoids that line the nasal mucosa. Activating alpha adrenergic receptors constricts the blood vessels of the nasal mucosa and restores nasal airflow. Because alpha1A and alpha2B adrenoceptors are the most abundant in the human nasal mucosa, they likely play the greatest role in this constriction. Xylometazoline acts as a more selective agonist at alpha2B adrenoceptors, while also showing affinity for alpha1A, alpha2A, alpha2C, alpha1B, and alpha1D adrenoceptors. It reduces nasal resistance during both inspiration and expiration and increases nasal airflow volume. Compared with oxymetazoline, another imidazoline nasal decongestant, xylometazoline tends to act slightly faster, though the two have a similar duration of effect. One study found that people with nasal congestion also experienced relief from earache and sore throat after using the medication, in addition to nasal decongestion. Researchers speculate that oxymetazoline produces this effect by constricting the blood vessels of the nasal mucosa, which contains the venous sinuses; the resulting decongestion allows breathing through the nose again, easing the sore throat that mouth breathing causes by drying and irritating the throat.

Dosage Reference

Reference Information Only

Dosages shown are general references from official sources. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized dosing.

Adults:

Nasal drops containing xylometazoline are used for adults at a strength of 0.1%. Adults put 2 or 3 drops in each nostril two to three times a day. The 0.1% strength should not be used in children under 12. For children aged 6 to 12, the 0.05% strength is used, with 2 or 3 drops in each nostril two or three times a day. Children under 6 get the 0.05% strength too, but only 1 drop in each nostril, two or three times a day. Drops should not be given to infants under 3 months at all.

Xylometazoline nasal spray is given at a strength of 0.05% to children aged 2 to 12. They get 1 spray per nostril, and no more than three times a day. Adults and adolescents over 12 use the 0.1% strength, 1 spray into each nostril, 1 to 3 times a day as needed. Never use more than 3 applications a day into each nostril. Otherwise, follow the directions of the registered physician.

Side Effects

The following side effects have occasionally been reported: a burning sensation in the nose and throat, local irritation, nausea, and dryness of the nasal lining.

Cautions & Contraindications

Warnings & Precautions

Antazol nasal drops for adults (0.1%) are not recommended for children under 12 years of age. They should not be used for an extended period in patients with chronic rhinitis, as prolonged use may lead to rebound congestion and drug-induced rhinitis.

Contraindications

Xylometazoline nasal drops should not be used by anyone who is hypersensitive to xylometazoline, or by anyone who has undergone transsphenoidal hypophysectomy or other surgery that exposed the dura mater. Each bottle should be used by only one person, as sharing it can spread infection between users. Patients should also be advised against using nasal decongestants for more than seven days in a row.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Xylometazoline is in pregnancy category C. It should not be used during pregnancy. If you are breastfeeding, use Otrivin only when a doctor has told you to.

⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Storage

Keep the Xylometazoline Hydrochloride bottle away from light. Once you open it, don't use it for more than 28 days, as this keeps it hygienic.

Common questions about Natrol 0.05%

What is Natrol 0.05% Nasal Spray?

Natrol 0.05% Nasal Spray is a medicine that contains Xylometazoline Hydrochloride. It is made by Drug International Unani Ltd. It belongs to the Nasal Anti-histamine preparations group of medicines.

What is Natrol used for?

Natrol is used for: Allergic Rhinitis, Sinusitis, Headache, Otitis Media.

What are the side effects of Natrol?

The following side effects have occasionally been reported: a burning sensation in the nose and throat, local irritation, nausea, and dryness of the nasal lining.

Can I take Natrol during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Xylometazoline is in pregnancy category C. It should not be used during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

How should I store Natrol?

Keep the Xylometazoline Hydrochloride bottle away from light. Once you open it, don't use it for more than 28 days, as this keeps it hygienic.

Do I need a prescription for Natrol?

Natrol is a prescription (Rx) medicine. Take it as your doctor advises.

Last updated: 20 Aug 2026