ATC Group: R01AB Sympathomimetics, combinations excl. corticosteroids

The World Health Organization's ATC classification organizes medical drugs based on therapeutic properties, chemical composition, and anatomy. It helps make essential medicines readily available globally and is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry.

Position of R01AB in the ATC hierarchy

Level Code Title
1 R Respiratory system
2 R01 Nasal preparations
3 R01A Decongestants and other nasal preparations for topical use
4 R01AB Sympathomimetics, combinations excl. corticosteroids

Group R01AB contents

Code Title
R01AB01 Phenylephrine
R01AB02 Naphazoline
R01AB03 Tetryzoline
R01AB05 Ephedrine
R01AB06 Xylometazoline
R01AB07 Oxymetazoline
R01AB08 Tuaminoheptane

Active ingredients in R01AB

Active Ingredient Description
Ephedrine

Ephedrine is a sympathomimetic amine acting directly on the alpha and beta receptors and indirectly by increasing the release of noradrenaline by the sympathetic nerve endings. As with any sympathomimetic agent, ephedrine stimulates the central nervous system, the cardiovascular system, the respiratory system, and the sphincters of the digestive and urinary systems.

Naphazoline

Naphazoline is a sympathomimetic amine with pronounced alpha adrenergic activity and as a consequence has vasoconstrictor activity.

Oxymetazoline

Oximetazoline is an imidazoline derivative. It exhibits sympathomimetic activity and specifically stimulates the α-adrenergic receptors of the sympathetic system. When administered topically to the nose it causes vasoconstriction of the expansed arterioles of the mucosal nose and a concurrent reduction in blood flow. It also reduces the hypersecretion of the nasal mucosa, ultimately contributing to the decongestion of the nasal mucosa.

Phenylephrine

Phenylephrine is a sympathomimetic agent with mainly direct effects on adrenergic receptors. It has predominantly alpha adrenergic activity and is without stimulating effects on the central nervous system. The sympathomimetic effect of phenylephrine produces vasoconstriction which in turn relieves nasal congestion.

Tetryzoline

Tetryzoline is an alpha adrenergic receptor agonist, which is used in form of nasal solution or spray for decongestion of nasal and nasopharyngeal mucosa.

Tuaminoheptane
Xylometazoline

Xylometazoline acts directly on α-adrenoreceptors but does not act on β-receptors. When used topically as a nasal decongestant, xylometazoline acts rapidly and provides long-lasting relief. Onset of action is within minutes, the decongestant effect being prolonged and lasting for up to 10 hours.

Related product monographs

Title Information Source Document Type  
EPHEDRINE 1.0% Nasal drops Medicines & Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (GB) MPI, EU: SmPC
EPHEDRINE HYDROCHLORIDE Solution for injection Medicines & Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (GB) MPI, EU: SmPC
EPHEDRINE HYDROCHLORIDE Tablet Medicines & Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (GB) MPI, EU: SmPC