The Russian newspaper Izvestia reported that vasoconstrictor drops and sprays can cause addiction after just a few days, and prolonged use can lead to serious tissue damage.

According to the Russian newspaper, ophthalmologist Dr. Karina Kuzina said that the medication used to treat a problem can over time become the cause of its persistence, noting that with repeated use, the same dose no longer achieves the desired effect, prompting the patient to increase the frequency of use.

The resulting chronic vasoconstriction impairs blood flow to tissues, which can cause gradual thinning and damage, and in some severe cases, may require surgical intervention.

The doctor emphasized that vasoconstrictor drops and sprays are intended only for short-term use, for a period of 3 to 5 days, stressing the need to consult a doctor if symptoms persist, rather than continuing their use without medical supervision.

She pointed out that the same problem applies to eye drops designed to relieve redness, as they also contain vasoconstrictors that quickly give the eye a normal appearance; however, daily use leads to the body getting used to them, and redness returns more severely after the effect wears off.

Dr. Karina Kuzina added that continuous use of these drops can cause drug-induced conjunctivitis, a condition where the blood vessels in the eye lose the ability to perform their natural function independently; therefore, these drops should only be used as a temporary solution, and if eye redness recurs, the real cause should be identified, such as dry eye, allergies, fatigue, ill-fitting contact lenses, or other medical conditions.

The doctor advised people who show signs of dependence on these medications, such as the need to use them more frequently than recommended or worsening symptoms upon discontinuation, not to stop them on their own, but to consult an ophthalmologist or an otolaryngologist to develop a gradual withdrawal plan and treat the underlying cause of the problem.

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