Medications can be instilled into the nostril by drops, which may be directed at a specific area of the nasal passage. This method results in increased local effects with minimal systemic effects.

Medication can also be administered using a nasal inhaler, which delivers topical medications to the respiratory tract, producing local and systemic effects. The mucosal lining of the respiratory tract absorbs the inhalant almost immediately. Examples of common inhalants include bronchodilators, which improve airway patency and facilitate mucous drainage; mucolytics, which attain a high local concentration to liquefy tenacious bronchial secretions; and corticosteroids, which decrease inflammation. Inhalants may be contraindicated in patients who lack the coordination or clear vision necessary to assemble a turbo-inhaler. Specific inhalants may also be contraindicated. For example, bronchodilators are contraindicated if the patient has tachycardia or a history of cardiac arrhythmias associated with tachycardia.

A third method, nasal aerosols diffuse medication throughout the nasal passages. This method results in increased local effects with minimal systemic effects.

Most nasal medications, such as phenylephrine, are vasoconstrictors, which relieve nasal congestion by coating and shrinking swollen mucous membranes. Because vasoconstrictors may be absorbed systemically, they’re usually contraindicated in hypersensitive patients. Other types of nasal medications include antiseptics, anesthetics, and corticosteroids. Local anesthetics may be administered to promote patient comfort during rhinolaryngologic examination, laryngoscopy, bronchoscopy, and endotracheal intubation. Corticosteroids reduce inflammation in allergic or inflammatory conditions and nasal polyps.