Afrin
(oxymetazoline)
Clears your sinuses.
Our bottom line
Afrin (oxymetazoline) clears stuffy noses, but can worsen your congestion if it is used more frequently than 3 days in a row.
- Drug class: Respiratory
- Rx status: Prescription or OTC
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (oxymetazoline)
Upsides
- It works right away and each dose lasts up to 12 hours.
- The effect is limited to your nasal passageways so it may be safer than other decongestants you take orally.
- Available as a nasal spray and a nasal mist.
- Can be purchased over-the-counter without a prescription.
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What to expect from Afrin, on one page
Download Fact Sheet
599Downsides
- Sometimes Afrin (oxymetazoline) causes temporary stinging, burning, or dryness of the nose.
- Talk to your doctor first before using it in children younger than 6 years old.
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What to expect from Afrin, on one page
Download Fact SheetAfrin (oxymetazoline) is a nasal decongestant. It reduces the swelling and improves the drainage in your sinuses.
- Drug class: Respiratory
- Rx status: Prescription or OTC
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (oxymetazoline)
Used for
Dosage forms
- Nasal spray
What to expect when you take Afrin (oxymetazoline) for Nasal congestion
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Full effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- Dry nose
- Burning or stinging inside the nose
- Sneezing
- Rebound nasal congestion
Side effect rates for Afrin (oxymetazoline)
Risks and Warnings for Afrin (oxymetazoline)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.- Higher risk if:
- › Using Afrin (oxymetazoline) for more than 3 days
Don't use it for more than 3 days in a row. Chronic use can lead to “rebound” congestion, which means your symptoms could get worse or come back after completing your treatment. If you're having stuffy nose for longer than 3 days, consider using a non-medicated nasal spray, like saline (salt-water). Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other ways to take care of your congestion.