Which of the following is a common adverse drug reaction (ADR) of oral decongestants?

Oral decongestants are commonly used to relieve nasal congestion by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages, leading to reduced swelling and congestion. One of the well-documented adverse drug reactions associated with these medications is tachycardia, which refers to an increased heart rate. This occurs because decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, stimulate adrenergic receptors, particularly alpha-adrenergic receptors, which can lead to cardiovascular effects, including an elevated heart rate.

This effect is particularly important to monitor in patients who may have preexisting cardiovascular conditions or are taking other medications that could exacerbate heart rate increases. Recognizing tachycardia as a potential adverse effect helps healthcare providers manage patient expectations and monitor for complications effectively.

While dryness of mouth may occur with some medications, it is not as specifically linked to oral decongestants as tachycardia is. Rhinorrhea, which is a runny nose, is not an adverse effect but rather the symptom being treated, and excessive sleepiness is generally not associated with decongestants, which are more likely to cause stimulation rather than sedation.