THE EFFECT OF DECONGESTIVE NOSEDROPS ON HUMAN RESPIRATORY MUCOSA IN-VITRO

The aim of this study was to investigate the morphological effects of decongestive drops and sprays on human respiratory mucosa in vitro. Pr ecultured fragments of adenoid tissue in a specially designed tissue c ulture system were exposed to decongestive preparations for 10 minutes once a day for 10 days. Tissue exposed to preparations preserved with benzalkonium chloride and tissue exposed to benzalkonium chloride alo ne underwent severe morphological alterations. Unpreserved decongestiv e substances did not have this effect. Benzalkonium chloride is a well -documented toxic substance in several respects. Supported by previous studies, it may seem unfortunate to use it as an additive in deconges tive preparations.