Otrivin is a nasal spray consisting of nasal antihistamine and decongestant called xylometazoline. We carry the brand choice of this medication in 0.10%. 

Otrivin is used for the relief of nose congestion cause by various conditions. Nose congestion is when the nasal passages are blocked due to the membranes lining the nose becoming swollen from inflamed blood vessels. Anything that irritates or inflames the nasal tissues will cause the blood vessels to widen and your nose will become congested. Breathing through your nose becomes incredibly hard when your nose is congested and can be incredibly frustrating. Some conditions that cause congestion of the nose include the common cold, sinusitis, hay fever, and allergies.

Otrivin (xylometazoline) is effective at clearing a congested nose because it is able to narrow the blood vessels that are swollen and causing congestion.

Make sure you are following only the directions given to you by your doctor. They can usually be found on your prescription label if you forget. Avoid getting this medication in your mouth or eyes.

• Gently blow your nose and wash your hands before starting.
• Use your finger to close the nostril not receiving the medicine.
• Keep your head upright while placing the spray tip into the open nostril.
• Spray the medication and breathe in as you spray.
• Sniff hard a few times to ensure all the medication has been received.
• Rinse the spray tip with hot water or wipe it down with a clean tissue after each use.

Do not use Otrivin (xylometazoline)

If you are allergic to xylometazoline; do not use this product as you may have an allergic reaction.

This drug should not be given to a child without the medical advice of a doctor.

Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required

Before using this medical nasal spray, tell your doctor if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, glaucoma, liver or kidney disease, enlarged prostate, urination problems, diabetes, or a thyroid disorder.

Risks

It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk or if it can harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor if this concerns you.

It is not known if this drug will harm an unborn baby. Consult your doctor if this concerns you.

Common side effects of Otrivin (xylometazoline) may include:

dryness, burning, or stinging inside your nose; sneezing; or runny nose.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Otrivin (xylometazoline) may include:

blurred vision; headache, dizziness, nervousness; fast or pounding heartbeats; a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; wheezing, feeling short of breath; or worsening symptoms.

If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.

How long will relief take to achieve?

Generally, it should not take longer than 3 days. If you still have a congested nose after 3 days; consult your doctor.

What should a pediatric patient take as a dose for a congested nose?

For children 2 – 12 years: 1-2 sprays in needed nostril(s) every 8-10 hours, but not to exceed 3 daily doses. Discontinue use after 3 days.

Is there anything else I should know before using this product?

During the time you use the nasal spray, avoid blowing your nose for at least 5 minutes after using the spray. Blowing your nose too soon after may result in ineffectiveness if any of the medicine is blown out.

Are there any drug interactions associated with Otrivin?

Yes. There is 1 major drug interaction and 51 moderate drug interactions. There may be more undiscovered drug interactions as well. The major drug interaction is iobenguane I 131. A couple of the moderate interactions include maprotiline, formoterol, venlafaxine, salmeterol, and amitriptyline.