Side Effects of Oxymetazoline Nasal Spray

Some of the most common oxymetazoline nasal spray side effects include sneezing, nasal dryness, and temporary stinging. While most people do not experience any problems while using this medication, some side effects are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider, such as difficulty passing urine and signs of an allergic reaction.

An Introduction to Oxymetazoline Nasal Spray Side Effects

Just like any medicine, oxymetazoline nasal spray (Afrin®, Nostrilla®, Sudafed OM™, and many others) can cause side effects. However, not everyone who uses the medication will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with oxymetazoline nasal spray. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of oxymetazoline nasal spray side effects with you.)
 

Serious Side Effects of Oxymetazoline Nasal Spray

Some oxymetazoline side effects, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider.
 These include but are not limited to:
 
 
    • An unexplained rash or hives
    • Itching 
    • Unexplained swelling, especially of the mouth, lips, or throat
    • Wheezing or difficulty breathing.
 
Side Effects of Oxymetazoline Nasal Spray Article Continues on Next Page >
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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