Is oxymetazoline the same as Afrin?

Is oxymetazoline the same as Afrin?

Afrin is a brand name for the over-the-counter medication oxymetazoline. You can find Afrin at almost any grocery or drug store. Its main use is as a decongestant nasal spray. It is sprayed into the nostrils to relieve congestion and other nasal symptoms of the common cold and sinusitis.

What is Afrin nasal spray used for?

This medication is used for temporary relief of congestion in the nose caused by various conditions including the common cold, sinusitis, hay fever, and allergies.

What nasal sprays contain oxymetazoline?

Afrin is an over-the-counter nasal spray decongestant. It contains oxymetazoline, which is an alpha-adrenergic agonist that causes local vasoconstriction. Afrin is fast-acting, but should not be used for more than three consecutive days.

Can Afrin cause stroke?

[1] Usage of phenylpropanolamine (nasal decongestant) has proven association with hemorrhagic stroke in 142 cases.

Is Afrin or Sudafed better?

Sudafed (Pseudoephedrine) relieves stuffy nose, but it could keep you up at night. Don’t forget your photo ID or you won’t be able to buy it in the drugstore. Clears your sinuses. Afrin (oxymetazoline) clears stuffy noses, but can worsen your congestion if it is used more frequently than 3 days in a row.

Can Afrin ruin your nose?

Eventually, the duration of action of the nasal spray decreases, so it must be used more and more frequently for the same effect. If the medicine is used long-term (months to years), permanent damage to the nose may occur. Once a nasal decongestant spray addiction has taken hold, it is tough to break on one’s own.

Is it OK to use Afrin everyday?

IS IT SAFE TO USE AFRIN EVERY DAY? Do not use Afrin products for more than three days. Frequent or prolonged use may cause nasal congestion to recur or worsen. If you still need a nasal decongestant after using Afrin for 3 days, please consult your healthcare professional.

Can Afrin damage your nose?

If the medicine is used long-term (months to years), permanent damage to the nose may occur. Once a nasal decongestant spray addiction has taken hold, it is tough to break on one’s own.

What is a good alternative to Afrin?

WORSENED NASAL CONGESTION (REBOUND CONGESTION) If you’re having a stuffy nose for longer than 3 days, consider using a non-medicated nasal spray, like saline (salt-water). Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist about better long-term alternatives to help with your congestion.