What are common side effects of alpha-adrenergic agonist agents used as decongestants?

What are common side effects of alpha-adrenergic agonist agents used as decongestants?

• A. Drowsiness
• B. Urinary retention
• C. Vasoconstriction, elevated blood pressure, rebound congestion, and tremor
• D. Tachycardia

Answer: (C)

Alpha-adrenergic agonists used as decongestants work by stimulating alpha-1 receptors on nasal blood vessels, causing vasoconstriction that shrinks swollen mucosa and opens the nasal passages. Because some of the drug can enter the systemic circulation, this vasoconstrictive effect can extend beyond the nose, leading to elevated blood pressure and potential tremor from sympathetic stimulation. If these agents are used for too long, the nasal tissues can rebound and swell again when the drug wears off, causing rebound congestion. Drowsiness is not typical for these decongestants (that’s more common with sedating antihistamines), and urinary retention isn’t a classic side effect of alpha-adrenergic agonists. So the most representative common side effects are vasoconstriction, elevated blood pressure, rebound congestion, and tremor.

Alpha-adrenergic agonists used as decongestants work by stimulating alpha-1 receptors on nasal blood vessels, causing vasoconstriction that shrinks swollen mucosa and opens the nasal passages. Because some of the drug can enter the systemic circulation, this vasoconstrictive effect can extend beyond the nose, leading to elevated blood pressure and potential tremor from sympathetic stimulation. If these agents are used for too long, the nasal tissues can rebound and swell again when the drug wears off, causing rebound congestion. Drowsiness is not typical for these decongestants (that’s more common with sedating antihistamines), and urinary retention isn’t a classic side effect of alpha-adrenergic agonists. So the most representative common side effects are vasoconstriction, elevated blood pressure, rebound congestion, and tremor.