Afrin

Common use

Afrin (for the nose) is for temporary relief of nasal congestion (stuffy nose) caused by allergies or the common cold. Oxymetazoline is a decongestant that shrinks blood vessels in the nasal passages. Dilated blood vessels can cause nasal congestion (stuffy nose).

Dosage and direction

Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Blow your nose gently. Keep your head upright and insert the tip of bottle into one nostril. Press your other nostril closed with your finger. Breathe in quickly and gently spray the medicine into your nose. Then use the spray in your other nostril. Do not blow your nose for at least a few minutes after using the nasal spray. Do not use the nasal spray more than 2 times in 24 hours.

Precautions

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially: heart disease, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease; diabetes; a thyroid disorder; or enlarged prostate or urination problems.
It is not known whether Afrin will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. It is not known whether oxymetazoline nasal passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Contraindications

You should not use Afrin if you are allergic to it.
Stop using Afrin and call your doctor at once if you have ongoing or worsening symptoms, or if you have severe burning or stinging in your nose after using the nasal spray.

Possible side effect

Common side effects of Afrin may include: mild burning or stinging of the nose; sneezing; or runny nose.

Drug interaction

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use Afrin if you are also using any of the following drugs: an antidepressant - amitriptyline, clomipramine, desipramine, doxepin, imipramine, nortriptyline; ergot medicine - ergotamine, dihydroergotamine, ergonovine, methylergonovine; or an MAO inhibitor - isocarboxazid, linezolid, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine.

Missed dose

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Overdose

Seek emergency medical attention if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Keep away from children and pets.