Brand name:
Pronounced: A-frin
Generic name: Oxymetazoline hydrochloride
Other brand names: 12 Hour Nostrilla, Duration 12 Hour, Neo-Synephrine 12 Hour, Vicks Sinex 12-Hour
These products provide temporary relief of stuffy nose caused by colds, inflamed sinuses, or allergies such as hay fever. Two of these products--Neo-Synephrine, and Vicks Sinex--also come in a shorter-acting, 4-hour formulation based on a different active ingredient. (See the profile on Neo-Synephrine.)
Squeeze Bottles: Squeeze the bottle quickly and firmly while you inhale. Do not tilt your head backward while spraying. Wipe the nozzle clean after use.
Pump Spray: Remove the cap and prime the pump by pressing it down firmly several times. Hold the bottle with your thumb at the base and the nozzle between your first and second fingers. With your head held upright, put the nozzle into your nostril, depress the pump 2 or 3 times, and sniff deeply.
* ADULTS
For adults and children 6 and over, the usual dose is 2 or 3 sprays in each nostril. Do not use any of these products more often than every 10 to 12 hours or take more than 2 doses in any 24-hour period. Children need adult supervision.
* CHILDREN
For children under 6, consult your doctor.
* STORAGE
Store at room temperature.
Unless your doctor approves, do not use any of these products if you have diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, or an enlarged prostate gland.
These products may cause temporary burning, stinging, sneezing, or runny nose.
Do not take more than the recommended dosage or use for more than 3 days. If you use these products too often or too long, your stuffy nose may come back or get worse. Do not share this medication, since this could spread infection. If your stuffy nose doesn't clear up, call your doctor.