What happens if you keep using Afrin?
If a nasal decongestant spray is a fixture in your medication lineup, it's important to know that using these sprays for more than three consecutive days can actually worsen your congestion. "This side effect of nasal decongestant sprays is called rebound congestion," says Dr.
What nasal spray is addictive?
THERE IS ONE TYPE OF NASAL SPRAY THAT IS “ADDICTIVE” These are nasal decongestant sprays such as OXYMETAZOLINE (AFRIN®, SINEX, SUDAFED NASAL SPRAY) or NEOSYNEPHRINE! This medication is marketed as a nasal decongestant spray and is found under many different names.
Why do people get hooked on Afrin?
Afrin-caused rebound congestion is not a form of addiction. Instead, suffering recurring nasal congestion due to overuse of Afrin is a physiological reaction involving tolerance of nasal passage tissues to oxymetazoline. The nasal spray rebound effect has no psychological component.
Is Afrin safe to use 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.
How do I get rid of Afrin addiction?
The best way to break the cycle of Afrin addiction, Dr. Besser advises, is to stop taking the medication cold turkey. “Expect to be miserable for a few days while the body recovers,” she says. “One can use a nasal steroid (such as Flonase) to help limit the symptoms while the body recovers.
How long does it take to wean off Afrin?
Usually within 4 weeks, the withdrawal symptoms start to improve and once completely resolved, your nose will be back to its normal healthy state!
How can I unblock my nose naturally?
9 Ways to Naturally Clear Up Your CongestionHumidifier.Steam.Saline spray.Neti pot.Compress.Herbs and spices.Elevated head.Essential oils.More items...•
Why can you only use Afrin for 3 days?
Afrin can be used up to twice daily. It should not be used for longer than three days as it can rapidly lose its effectiveness and lead to rebound congestion. Common side effects include headache, dizziness, nasal stinging or burning, drowsiness, shakiness, and sleep problems.
How do I stop Afrin rebounding?
To prevent rebound congestion, use over-the-counter decongestant nasal sprays for no more than three days in a row, with as few doses as possible each day. Prescription nasal sprays containing steroids don't cause this rebound effect, so they can be used on a daily basis for years.
Should I use Afrin or Flonase?
Is Afrin or Flonase better? Afrin provides a faster response to congestion with an onset of action within 10 minutes. It is not recommended for use longer than three days, however. Flonase is slower to relieve congestion symptoms but can be used safely long term.
Is it OK to use Afrin once a week?
Nasal decongestant sprays like Afrin (oxymetazoline) have a clear warning: “Do not use for more than three days. Use only as directed. Frequent or prolonged use may cause nasal congestion to recur or worsen.”
Can Afrin cause anxiety?
Some other common side effects that nasal decongestants can cause include insomnia, nervousness, anxiety and tremor. Side effects are usually more common as the dose is increased. Oral decongestants should never be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MOAIs) or within two weeks of stopping them.
Is saline nasal spray addictive?
Over-the-counter nasal sprays don't cause the physiological cravings that mark an addiction. To prevent rebound congestion, use over-the-counter decongestant nasal sprays for no more than three days in a row, with as few doses as possible each day.
Can nasal spray get you high?
Oxymetazoline Abuse An oxymetazoline high isn't necessarily a strong high, but it does exist and can have severe consequences. If a person uses nasal sprays excessively, it can cause psychosis. In some cases, oxymetazoline addicts experience recurring hallucinations.
Why is otrivin addictive?
Addictions are physiological cravings and while over-the-counter nasal sprays can be addictive, they aren't true physiological cravings. Therefore, they are not truly an addictive substance. However, they can be addictive due to the ongoing cycle of decongestion and congestion that they create.
Is phenylephrine addictive?
The most popular OTC nasal sprays use many of the same chemically active ingredients such as Phenylephrine, Xylometazoline and the most popular Oxymetazoline. Not only are these chemicals bad for your body, but they can also lead to addiction and recurring symptoms that worsen over time.