Description:

Nostamine Eye/Nose Drops (also known as Nostamine Eye & Nasal Sterile Solution) is a combination topical medication used for the symptomatic relief of allergic conditions affecting the eyes and nose. It provides rapid decongestion of nasal mucosa and conjunctiva, relieving nasal congestion, redness, itching, watery eyes, and irritation from allergies, hay fever, common cold, rhinitis, sinusitis, or environmental irritants (e.g., dust, pollen, smoke). The naphazoline component acts as a potent vasoconstrictor to reduce swelling and redness quickly, while chlorpheniramine provides antihistamine effects to block histamine-mediated allergy symptoms. It is widely available in Ghanaian pharmacies (e.g., in Accra at Vafy Pharmacy, Caplet Cares, Beybee Pharmacy, Sally Pharmacies, Bloom Pharmacy, Trafalgar Gate Pharma) as an affordable option for allergy and cold-related eye/nasal relief.

Prescription:

Over-the-counter (OTC) in many regions, including Ghana for short-term use. No prescription required for adults in most cases, but consult a doctor or pharmacist before use, especially for children, prolonged use (>3-5 days), or if symptoms are severe/persistent (may mask underlying issues).

Therapeutic Category:

Vasoconstrictor + Antihistamine Combination (Topical Ophthalmic/Nasal Decongestant and Antiallergic Agent; for symptomatic relief of allergic rhinitis/conjunctivitis and nasal/ocular congestion.

Active Ingredients/Composition:

Each 1 ml contains:

• Naphazoline hydrochloride – 0.5 mg (0.05%) – sympathomimetic vasoconstrictor for rapid decongestion.
• Chlorpheniramine maleate – 0.5 mg (0.05%) – H1-antihistamine for allergy symptom relief. Other ingredients (excipients): Benzalkonium chloride (preservative), sodium citrate dihydrate, boric acid, disodium edetate, sodium hydroxide/hydrochloric acid (for pH adjustment), water for injection (sterile solution).

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant:

• Nostamine Eye/Nose Drops (standard sterile solution, commonly 10ml or 15ml dropper bottle). Related variants: Similar combination products (e.g., other naphazoline + chlorpheniramine generics); no major branded variants noted for Nostamine itself (consistent 0.05%/0.05% strength).

Consume Type:

Topical – Eye/Nose Drops (sterile solution; instilled into eyes or nostrils; not for oral use).

Directions/Usage:

Shake well if needed; use only as directed.

• For eyes: 1-2 drops in each affected eye, 3-4 times daily or as needed (for allergic conjunctivitis, redness, itching).
• For nose: 1-2 drops in each nostril, 2-4 times daily or as needed (for rhinitis, congestion). Do not exceed 5-7 days continuous use (risk of rebound congestion/vasoconstrictor tolerance). Wash hands before use; avoid touching dropper tip to eye/nose to prevent contamination. For children, consult a doctor (not recommended under certain ages without advice).

Common Side Effects:

Common (usually mild/transient):

• Temporary stinging, burning, or irritation on instillation (eyes/nose).
• Blurred vision (short-term).
• Dryness or rebound congestion/redness (with prolonged use).
• Mild headache or drowsiness (from antihistamine). Rare/serious (seek help): Severe irritation, increased redness/swelling, eye pain, vision changes, or systemic effects (e.g., increased blood pressure from absorption).

Package Type:

Plastic dropper bottle (typically 10ml or 15ml) with nozzle/cap; often in a carton with patient information leaflet.

Storage Advice:

Store at room temperature (below 25-30°C) in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not freeze. Discard 4 weeks after opening or if solution changes color/cloudy.

Safety Advice:

• For topical use only; avoid if allergic to naphazoline, chlorpheniramine, or preservatives (e.g., benzalkonium).
• Caution in glaucoma (narrow-angle), hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid issues, or prostate enlargement (vasoconstrictor effects).
• Not for long-term use (> few days) without doctor advice—risk of rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa) or tolerance.
• Remove contact lenses before use; wait 15 minutes before reinserting.
• Consult doctor if pregnant/breastfeeding, for children, or if symptoms worsen/persist.
• If eye pain, vision loss, or severe symptoms occur, seek immediate medical care.

Product Substitutes:

Similar naphazoline + chlorpheniramine or equivalent eye/nose drops in Ghana include:

• Generics with naphazoline + antihistamine (e.g., other imported combos).
• Alternatives: Naphazoline-only (e.g., Clear Eyes generics), Antazoline + xylometazoline (e.g., Otrivin-Antistin), or separate products like chlorpheniramine tablets + saline/nasal decongestants.
• For allergies: Olopatadine drops (Patanol generics) or oral antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine). Consult a pharmacist in Accra (e.g., Vafy Pharmacy, Caplet Cares) for availability and best match.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

EIPICO (Egyptian International Pharmaceutical Industries Co.; main producer). Marketed/distributed in Ghana by local importers/pharmacies (e.g., Vafy Pharmacy & Mart, Caplet Cares, Beybee Pharmacy, Sally Pharmacies, Bloom Pharmacy, Trafalgar Gate Pharma).

Country of Origin:

Egypt.