What medication should be administered for epistaxis if bleeding does not stop?

In cases of epistaxis, or nosebleeds, the primary goal is to stop the bleeding effectively and quickly. Oxymetazoline, commonly known as Afrin, is a nasal decongestant that works by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages, which can significantly reduce blood flow and help control bleeding. Its local vasoconstrictive effects make it particularly effective in managing nosebleeds, especially when other first-aid measures, such as pinching the nostrils and leaning forward, fail to provide relief.

Oxymetazoline is often preferred in clinical settings because it is readily available, easy to administer via nasal spray, and has a quick onset of action. This medication can provide almost immediate relief and can be used in conjunction with other treatment options if necessary.

Other options, while potentially useful in certain contexts, may not be as effective or appropriate for immediate intervention in epistaxis. For example, adrenaline (epinephrine) can also cause vasoconstriction, but it is typically reserved for more severe or systemic allergic reactions rather than localized bleeding like epistaxis. Phenylephrine, although it acts similarly as a decongestant, is not as commonly used for this specific purpose in practice