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The Sound of Evolution
Oxymetazoline
Mechanism of action:
Oxymetazoline is an imidazoline derivative. Oxymetazoline activates alpha1 adrenoreceptors on vascular smooth muscle in the nasal mucosa and conjunctiva. Through Gq proteins, it increases IP3/DAG levels, leading to the rise of cytosolic calcium and activation of protein kinase C, which results in contraction of vascular smooth muscle.
Reference(s):
1. Tobias JD et al. (2014). Oxymetazoline (Afrin®): maybe there is more that we need to know. Paediatr Anaesth.
2. Sisk AL et al. (1992). Vasoconstrictors in local anesthesia for dentistry. Anesth Prog.
3. Watanabe H et al. (2003). Oxymetazoline nasal spray three times daily for four weeks in normal subjects is not associated with rebound congestion or tachyphylaxis. Rhinology.
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