Oxymetazoline (Into the nose)
ox-i-me-TAZ-oh-leen
Helps relieve a stuffy nose.
Drug classes
Decongestant (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Oxymetazoline is used for the temporary relief of nasal (of the nose) congestion or stuffiness caused by hay fever or other allergies, colds, or sinus trouble.
This medicine may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
This medicine is available without a prescription.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Spray
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.
If you are using the nasal spray for the first time, you will need to prime the spray. To do this, pump or squeeze the bottle until some of the medicine sprays out. Now it is ready to use. Prime the spray after each time you clean the pump, or if you have not used the medicine for 5 days or longer.
Shake the nasal spray well before each use.
Before using the medicine, gently blow your nose to clear the nostrils.
Keep your head upright while spraying the medicine into each nostril. Repeat until you have used 2 to 3 sprays in each nostril.
Do not use more than two times in 24 hours, unless your doctor tells you to.
Do not share this medicine with other people.
After using the nasal spray, wipe the tip of the bottle with a clean tissue and put the cap back on.
Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Keep the bottle tightly closed when not using it. Store at room temperature, away from heat and direct light.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
When Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to oxymetazoline.
Warnings
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems, or an enlarged prostate.
Do not use this medicine for more than 3 days unless your doctor tell you to.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Burning or stinging inside of your nose
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
12-Hour Nasal, 4-Way Long Lasting, Afrin, Afrin Extra Moisturizing, Afrin No-Drip Sinus, Afrin PumpMist, Afrin Sinus, Afrin w/Menthol, Dristan 12-Hr, Duramist Plus, Duration, Genasal, Good Neighbor Nasal Spray Pump, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Nasal Spray, Good Sense Nasal Spray, Mucinex Full Force, Mucinex Moisture Smart, NRS-Nasal Relief, Nasacon, Nasin, Neo-Synephrine 12 Hour, Nostrilla, Sinarest Nasal, Vicks Sinex 12 Hour
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
