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Afrin Nasal Spray (Generic Oxymetazoline Nasal Spray)

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Why is this medication prescribed?

For relief from nasal discomfort brought on by colds, allergies, and hay fever, try oxymetazoline nasal spray. Additionally, sinus pressure and congestion are reduced by it. Children under the age of six should not be treated with oxymetazoline nasal spray unless a doctor specifically prescribes it. Oxymetazoline nasal spray should be used carefully and under adult supervision by children aged 6 to 12. The drug oxymetazoline belongs to the group of drugs known as nasal decongestants. The nasal passageways’ blood vessels are constricted as a result of its action.

How should this medicine be used?

Oxymetazoline is available as a liquid solution to spray into the nose. When necessary, it is often taken every 10 to 12 hours, but not more than twice in a 24-hour period. Pay close attention to the instructions on the package label or the label on your prescription, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to clarify any instructions you do not understand. Follow the directions on the oxymetazoline nasal spray exactly. Use it only as indicated on the label or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use more, less, or more frequently than recommended.

Congestion may develop worse if you use oxymetazoline nasal spray more frequently or for a longer period of time than is advised. It may also get better but then return. Use of oxymetazoline nasal spray shouldn’t go beyond three days. After three days of treatment, cease using oxymetazoline and call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve.

Only the nose should be used for oxymetazoline nasal spray. Do not ingest the medicine.

Do not let anyone else use your spray dispenser to avoid the transmission of infection. After using the dispenser, clean the tip with a damp cloth or hot water.

Use the nasal spray according to the instructions on the product label. In accordance with the instructions on the label, press down on the rim of a product’s container several times before using your first dose to prime the pump. When it’s time to apply the spray, hold your head straight up without swaying, and insert the spray bottle’s tip into one of your nostrils. Squeeze the bottle hard and fast to release the nasal spray. When using goods with a pump dispenser, apply strong, uniform pressure to the rim and inhale deeply.

Other uses for this medicine

Other prescriptions for this drug are possible. For more information, consult your physician or pharmacist.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before using oxymetazoline,

  • If you have an allergy to oxymetazoline or any other drug, let your doctor and pharmacist know right away.
  • Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, dietary supplements, and herbal products that you are now taking or intend to use. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, or have just discontinued taking, any of the following medicines: tranylcypromine, isocarboxazid, phenelzine, and selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar) (Parnate).
  • Inform your doctor if you have thyroid or heart illness, high blood pressure, diabetes, a swollen prostate, or difficulties urinating.
  • Inform your doctor if you are expecting, intend to get pregnant, or are nursing a baby. Call your doctor if you become pregnant while using oxymetazoline nasal spray.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Keep eating normally unless your doctor instructs you otherwise.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Typically, this drug is taken as needed. If you are prescribed oxymetazoline by your doctor, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If the next dose is soon due, skip the missed one and carry on with your regular dosing plan. To make up for a missing dose, do not take a second one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Oxymetazoline might have negative effects. If any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away, let your doctor know right once:

  • Burning
  • Stinging
  • More nasal discharge
  • Dryness in the nasal cavity
  • Sneezing
  • Nervousness
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Having trouble falling or staying asleep

Some adverse effects can be very harmful. Call your doctor right away if any of these symptoms occur to you:

  • Rapid heart rate
  • Sluggish heartbeat

Other negative effects from oxymetazoline nasal spray are possible. If you experience any strange issues while taking this drug, call your doctor right away.

You or your doctor can submit a report to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting programme online or by phone if you have a serious side event (1-800-332-1088).

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Keep this medication tightly closed in the original container and out of the reach of children. Store it away from excess heat, light, and moisture at room temperature (not in the bathroom). Keep the drug from freezing.

Unused prescriptions must be disposed of carefully to prevent pets, kids, and other people from ingesting them. You should not, however, dispose of this medication in the toilet. Instead, utilising a medicine take-back programme is the easiest approach to get rid of your medication. To find out about take-back programmes in your area, speak with your pharmacist or the garbage/recycling department in your city. If you do not have access to a take-back programme, see the FDA’s Safe Disposal of Medicines website at http://goo.gl/c4Rm4p for additional information.

As many containers (such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers) are not child-resistant and are simple for young children to open, it is crucial to keep all medications out of sight and out of reach of children. Always lock safety caps and promptly stash medication up and away from young children where it is out of their sight and reach to prevent poisoning. http://www.upandaway.org

In case of emergency/overdose

Call your local poison control centre at 1-800-222-1222 if someone swallows oxymetazoline nasal spray or if you use too much of it. Dial 911 to contact the local emergency services if the sufferer has collapsed or has stopped breathing.

What other information should I know?

If you have any inquiries regarding oxymetazoline nasal spray, ask your pharmacist.

You should keep a written record of every medication you take, including any over-the-counter (OTC) items, prescription drugs, and dietary supplements like vitamins and minerals. This list should be brought with you whenever you see a doctor or are admitted to the hospital. You should always have this information with you in case of emergencies.

Brand names

  • Afrin® Nasal Spray
  • Anefrin® Nasal Spray
  • Dristan® Nasal Spray
  • Mucinex® Nasal Spray
  • Nostrilla® Nasal Spray
  • Vicks Sinex® Nasal Spray
  • Zicam® Nasal Spray
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