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Nostrilla
Generic name: oxymetazoline nasal
Brand names: 12 Hour Nasal, 12 Hour Nasal Decongestant, Afrin, Afrin All Night NoDrip, Afrin Allergy Sinus, Afrin Extra Moisturizing, Afrin No Drip, Afrin No Drip Severe Congestion, Afrin NoDrip Extra Moisturizing, Afrin Pump Mist, Afrin Severe Congestion, Afrin Severe Congestion NoDrip, Allerest 12 Hour Nasal Spray, Dristan Nasal, Mucinex Children's Stuffy Nose, Mucinex Sinus-Max Severe Nasal Congestion Relief, Nasal Mist, Nostrilla, Sinex Severe, Vicks Sinex Severe
What is Nostrilla?
Oxymetazoline is a decongestant that reduces the size of blood vessels in the nasal passages. Enlarged blood vessels can lead to nasal congestion (stuffy nose).
Nostrilla (for the nose) provides temporary relief from nasal congestion (stuffy nose) due to allergies or the common cold.
Nostrilla may also be used for other reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Warnings
Nostrilla (for the nose) is used for short-term relief of nasal congestion caused by allergies or the common cold.
Stop using Nostrilla and call your doctor right away if your symptoms do not improve or get worse, or if you experience severe burning or stinging in your nose after using the nasal spray.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Nostrilla if you are allergic to it.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially:
- heart disease, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease;
- diabetes;
- a thyroid disorder; or
- enlarged prostate or urination problems.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known if Nostrilla will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.
It is not known if oxymetazoline nasal passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Nostrilla side effects
Get emergency medical help if you notice any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; trouble breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Nostrilla may cause serious side effects. Stop using Nostrilla and call your doctor immediately if you experience:
- ongoing or worsening symptoms;
- severe burning or stinging in your nose after using the nasal spray;
- chest pain, fast or uneven heartbeat; or
- severe headache, ringing in your ears, anxiety, confusion, or feeling short of breath.
Common side effects of Nostrilla may include:
- mild burning or stinging in the nose;
- sneezing; or
- runny nose.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
How should I use Nostrilla?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Using the medication too long or too often may worsen your symptoms or cause nasal congestion to clear up and come back.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 3 days of treatment.
Do not share this medication with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have. Sharing a nasal spray bottle can spread infection.
To use the nose drops (nasal solution):
- Blow your nose gently. Tilt your head back as far as possible, or lie down and hang your head over the side of a bed. Hold the dropper over your nose and place the correct number of drops into your nose.
- Sit up and bend your head slightly forward, then move it gently left and right. Stay seated with your head bent forward for a few minutes.
- Avoid sneezing or blowing your nose for at least a few minutes after using the nose drops.
To use the nasal spray:
- Blow your nose gently. Keep your head upright and insert the tip of bottle into one nostril. Press your other nostril closed with your finger. Breathe in quickly and gently spray the medicine into your nose. Then use the spray in your other nostril.
- Do not blow your nose for at least a few minutes after using the nasal spray.
Do not use the nasal spray more than 2 times in 24 hours.
Wipe the tip of the spray bottle with a clean tissue but do not wash with water or soap.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to replace the missed dose.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.
Keep Nostrilla away from children. Some nasal medications can lead to serious health issues in a young child who accidentally sucks on or swallows medicine from the nasal spray bottle.
Follow your doctor's instructions regarding any limits on food, drinks, or activities.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What other drugs will affect Nostrilla?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use Nostrilla if you are also taking any of the following medications:
- an antidepressant--amitriptyline, clomipramine, desipramine, doxepin, imipramine, nortriptyline;
- ergot medicine--ergotamine, dihydroergotamine, ergonovine, methylergonovine; or
- an MAO inhibitor--isocarboxazid, linezolid, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine.
This list is not complete and other medications may interact with Nostrilla. Inform your doctor about all medications you are using, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
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Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.