ArticleCureus2025
Utilization Pattern and Related Knowledge of Nasal Decongestants Among the General Population in the Al-Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia.
Article in Cureus, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 1 paper.
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Who cites it
1 citing paper in PubMed.
- Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward xylometazoline nasal spray use among adults in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional survey.Frontiers in pharmacology · 2026Article
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7 authors.
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Abstract
backgroundNasal congestion, a common symptom of various upper respiratory conditions, is often treated with nasal decongestants, which are effective vasoconstrictors used to relieve blockage in conditions like allergic rhinitis, rhinosinusitis, and nasal polyps. However, frequent use of these decongestants can lead to both local and systemic side effects.
methodsThis cross-sectional study used an online, self-administered questionnaire to collect data from our population as regard on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Inclusion criteria encompassed all consenting individuals aged 10 years and older residing in the Al-Qassim region. Respondents who failed to complete the questionnaire or were not residents of the region were excluded. The structured questionnaire included the participants' demographic information, usage patterns, and knowledge of nasal decongestants. Participants' information was gathered via an online survey that had already been created. Data collected were analyzed using SPSS version 27 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, US).
resultsOf the 421 participants, 295 (70.1%) reported prior use of nasal decongestants, with 195 (66.1%) using them for less than five days and 144 (48.8%) reporting twice-daily use. The most common reasons for use were nasal obstruction (128 (43.3%)), rhinosinusitis (68 (23.1%)), and common cold (61 (20.7%)). While 166 (56.3%) used decongestants based on a physician's recommendation, 120 (40.7%) received no guidance. Pharmacies were the primary source of purchase (211 (71.5%)), and 159 (54.0%) reported using one bottle per month or less. Symptom relief was reported by 265 (89.8%), whereas 33 (11.2%) experienced physician-diagnosed complications. Regarding knowledge, 279 (66.3%) were aware that nasal decongestants relieve congestion, but only 83 (19.7%) recognized the risk of rebound congestion. Although 285 (67.7%) understood that these medications treat symptoms rather than causes, misconceptions regarding pediatric safety and contraindications were prevalent. Overall, 251 (59.6%) had moderate knowledge. A statistically significant association was observed between monthly income and knowledge level (p = 0.018), indicating poorer awareness among lower-income individuals.
conclusionDespite noting a high prevalence of the use of nasal decongestants in the Al-Qassim region, the study also reveals a lack of public awareness regarding their safe use, potential adverse effects, and appropriate usage, particularly among lower-income groups. These findings highlight the need for targeted educational interventions to promote safe and effective use.
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