No reports describing the use of oxymetazoline ophthalmic solution in human pregnancy have been located. Available over-the-counter (OTC), it is a long-acting vasoconstrictor used topically in the eye. To decrease the amount of drug reaching the systemic circulation (during pregnancy or lactation), place pressure over the tear duct in the corner of the eye for at least 1 minute, and then remove any excess solution with absorbent tissue.
No reports describing the use of oxymetazoline ophthalmic during human lactation have been located. The molecular weight (about 260) is low enough to be excreted into breast milk, but the amount in the systemic circulation has apparently not been studied. A method to reduce the amount entering the systemic circulation is described in the Pregnancy Summary.
Oxymetazoline Ophthalmic
Pregnancy Recommendation:No Human Data—Probably Compatible
Breastfeeding Recommendation:No Human Data—Probably Compatible
Oxymetazoline ophthalmic is an α-adrenergic agent. It is indicated for the relief of redness of the eye due to minor eye irritations (1). Apparently, no information is available on the amount absorbed systemically.
Animal Data: Studies for carcinogenicity have apparently not been conducted, nor have studies on fertility.
Placental Transfer: It is not known if oxymetazoline crosses the human placenta. The molecular weight (about 260) is low enough to cross, but the amount in the systemic circulation has apparently not been studied.