Oxymetazoline nasal spray is a non-prescription drug used to treat nasal congestion due to various causes. This eMedTV resource offers an overview of the drug, including how it works, possible side effects, and tips on when and how to use the spray.
Sneezing and nasal dryness are some of the possible side effects of oxymetazoline nasal spray. This eMedTV Web article lists other potential side effects reported with the nasal spray and describes which ones to report immediately to your doctor.
As this eMedTV page explains, oxymetazoline nasal spray has been approved to treat nasal congestion caused by allergies, a cold, or sinus infections. This page also covers off-label uses for oxymetazoline nasal spray uses, such as treating nosebleeds.
As this eMedTV page explains, the standard dose of oxymetazoline nasal spray for treating nasal congestion is two or three sprays in each nostril twice daily. This page lists other dosing tips and covers why you shouldn't use it for more than three days.
Oxymetazoline nasal spray may cause negative drug interactions with several medications. This eMedTV Web page provides a list of medications that may interact with oxymetazoline nasal spray and describes the problems that could occur.
Using oxymetazoline nasal spray for more than three days in a row can cause your congestion to get worse. This eMedTV resource takes a look at other precautions and warnings with oxymetazoline nasal spray, and explains who should not take the medicine.
As this eMedTV article explains, it is possible to overdose on oxymetazoline nasal spray. Overdose effects may include nausea, increased heart rate, and drowsiness. Seek prompt medical care if you or someone else has taken too much of this nasal spray.
The FDA has classified oxymetazoline nasal spray as a pregnancy Category C drug. This eMedTV resource further discusses using this medication during pregnancy, explaining the complications that may occur and when its use should be avoided.
It is not known if oxymetazoline nasal spray passes through breast milk. This page of the eMedTV Web site further discusses oxymetazoline nasal spray and breastfeeding, including what to discuss with your doctor before using this drug and nursing a child.
