US Medical Term · medications
Decongestant
Descongestionante
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Decongestant |
| Spanish (Español) | Descongestionante |
| Chinese (中文) | 去充血劑 |
| Korean (한국어) | 충혈완화제 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Thuốc thông mũi |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Decongestant |
| Portuguese (Português) | Descongestionante |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | ยาแก้คัดจมูก |
| Japanese (日本語) | 鼻充血除去薬 |
What it means
Decongestants are medications that relieve nasal and sinus congestion by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and mucus. They are commonly used for colds, allergies, and sinusitis. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and phenylephrine are the most common. Pseudoephedrine is kept behind the pharmacy counter due to regulations. Nasal spray decongestants (like oxymetazoline) work quickly but should not be used for more than three consecutive days, as overuse can cause rebound congestion. Decongestants can raise blood pressure and heart rate — people with hypertension, heart disease, or thyroid problems should consult their doctor before use.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
Is this a decongestant and is it safe if I have high blood pressure?
¿Este es un descongestionante y es seguro si tengo presión arterial alta?
Can I use a nasal decongestant spray for more than three days?
¿Puedo usar un spray descongestionante nasal por más de tres días?
Do I need to show ID to buy pseudoephedrine at the pharmacy?
¿Necesito mostrar identificación para comprar pseudoefedrina en la farmacia?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026