There are also nasal sprays that combine a nasal steroid with a nasal anti-histamine (Dymista, Ryaltris). These include brands such as Astepro, Astelin and Patanase. Popular steroid spray brands include Flonase, Nasacort, Nasonex, Rhinocort, Qnasl and Xhance.Īnti-histamine nasal sprays work locally in the nose to block the effects of histamine, reducing sneezing, congestion, itchy and runny nose. Steroid nasal sprays inhibit the release of inflammatory substances in the body, which can reduce congestion, sneezing, runny nose and watery eyes. Always speak with your doctor regarding decongestant sprays’ use and proper administration. These sprays should not be used for more than 3-5 days. They work by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and congestion. They’re often used to relieve nasal dryness and help with congestion caused by colds or allergies.ĭecongestant nasal sprays, such as Afrin or oxymetazoline, relieve nasal congestion caused by allergies, colds or other nasal conditions. Saline sprays moisten the nasal passages and help clear mucus from the nose.

The most common types include saline sprays, decongestant sprays and steroid sprays. There are various nasal sprays, each with its unique purpose. Don’t share nasal sprays between family members.Blowing your nose immediately after using your nasal spray.These techniques will all cause the medicine to drain down the back of your throat, reducing its effectiveness. Sniffing too hard, tilting your head back, or lying down immediately afterward.Angling the nasal spray toward the septum.Inserting the entire nasal spray applicator into the nose.In addition, there are also practices to avoid when using nasal sprays. Apply one spray into each side of the nose, sniff, and repeat if additional dosing is needed or recommended.Holding the opposite nostril closed with your finger when you sniff might be helpful. When using a nasal spray, a small sniff to keep the medicine in your nose is all that is needed.You may tuck your chin toward your chest or use a “nose to toes” head-hanging position as well. Keep your head positioned in a normal orientation when using your nasal spray.Some people find that using the right hand for the left nostril and the left hand for the right nostril (crisscross) helps achieve the correct angle. Angle the applicator tip toward the outer wall of the nose and away from the septum (cartilage in the center of the nose).Some people find it helpful to rest the bottom of the applicator on the upper lip to help with positioning. Place just the nasal spray applicator tip into the nostril.This helps to clear out any excess mucus or debris in the nasal passages, increasing the medication’s effectiveness. Lightly blow your nose (if needed) before using your nasal spray.Prime your nasal spray with test sprays before the first use and shake well prior to every use.

To properly administer your nasal sprays properly, follow these helpful tips: While nasal sprays can be highly effective, they can also be challenging to use effectively. These sprays are easy to use and can provide targeted relief for various nasal allergy symptoms, including congestion, inflammation, sneezing and more. This medicine (typically a steroid or antihistamine) reduces the body’s immune response to allergens or irritants in the nose. Nasal sprays deliver a fine mist of medication directly to the nasal lining. To help you get the most relief from your spray, we’ve compiled this list of dos, don’ts and “you should knows” for proper nasal spray use.

While this medication can work well to alleviate allergy irritation, nasal sprays are only as effective as their administration. doi:10.1097/00131746-200407000-00005.Nasal sprays are a popular medication option for many patients with allergies, congestion and other nasal symptoms. The role of monoamine oxidase inhibitors in current psychiatric practice. Clinically relevant drug interactions with monoamine oxidase inhibitors. doi:10.2147/ijgm.s8184Įdinoff AN, Swinford CR, Odisho AS, et al. Treatment of congestion in upper respiratory diseases. Meltzer EO, Caballero F, Fromer LM, et al. A combination of cetirizine and pseudoephedrine has therapeutic benefits when compared to single drug treatment in allergic rhinitis. Focus on the cetirizine use in clinical practice: a reappraisal 30 years later. Legal requirements for the sale and purchase of drug products containing pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, and phenylpropanolamine.Ĭorsico AG, Leonardi S, Licari A, et al. Label: Zyrtec D Allergy and Congestion - cetirizine hydrochloride and pseudoephedrine hydrochloride tablet, extended release. Label: Zyrtec - cetirizine hydrochloride tablet, film coated.ĭailyMed.

Prescription nasal sprays for allergies