Otrivine sinus Relief Nasal Spray

Otrivine is a fast-acting nasal decongestant spray containing xylometazoline hydrochloride. It works by constricting the blood vessels inside the nasal passages, reducing swelling and mucus to quickly relieve a blocked nose. It's used to treat nasal congestion caused by the common cold, hay fever, allergic rhinitis, and sinusitis. It starts unblocking the nasal airways within 2 minutes of use, making it one of the fastest-acting nasal sprays available. Otrivine adult nasal spray is suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over and is available without a prescription.

Adults and young people aged 12 and over should use one spray into each nostril, up to three times a day. Do not exceed three applications into each nostril in any 24-hour period. To use it correctly, keep your head upright, insert the nozzle gently into one nostril, close the other nostril with your finger, and breathe in gently as you spray. Avoid blowing your nose for a few minutes after using it. Never share your nasal spray with anyone else, as this can spread infection.

This is one of the most important things to know about Otrivine. It should only be used for a maximum of seven consecutive days. Using it for longer than this can cause what is known as rebound congestion — where your nose becomes even more blocked when you stop using the spray than it was before you started. This happens because your nasal passages become dependent on the spray to stay open. If your congestion hasn't improved after seven days, or keeps coming back, speak to your GP rather than continuing to use Otrivine.

Most people use Otrivine without any problems. The most commonly reported side effects are mild nasal irritation, a temporary burning or stinging sensation inside the nose, sneezing, and a dry or sore nose. Less commonly, some people experience headaches or difficulty sleeping, particularly if the spray is used more than recommended. If you notice any unusual symptoms — such as a rapid heartbeat, palpitations, or a significant rise in blood pressure — stop using Otrivine and speak to your doctor promptly.

Otrivine is not suitable for children under 12 years old — a lower-strength children's formula is available for younger children. It should also be avoided by anyone with certain medical conditions, including high blood pressure, heart disease, an overactive thyroid, diabetes, or narrow-angle glaucoma. You should also not use Otrivine if you are currently taking, or have taken in the last two weeks, a type of antidepressant called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). If you are unsure whether Otrivine is safe for you, speak to your GP or pharmacist before using it.

Yes — Otrivine can be used alongside oral antihistamines or other allergy treatments to manage multiple allergy symptoms at once. For example, if you are taking a hay fever tablet for sneezing and itchy eyes but still have a severely blocked nose, Otrivine can provide targeted, fast-acting relief for the congestion. However, always avoid using more than one nasal decongestant spray at the same time, and stick to the seven-day maximum usage rule regardless of what other treatments you are taking.

Otrivine is not recommended during pregnancy, as xylometazoline can cause constriction of blood vessels and its effects on the developing baby are not fully established. If you are pregnant and suffering from nasal congestion, a saline (salt water) nasal spray is generally considered the safest first option and is worth trying before any medicated spray. If you are breastfeeding, use Otrivine only on the advice of a doctor, as it is not known whether xylometazoline passes into breast milk. Always speak to your GP if you need nasal congestion relief during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.