The researchers looked at the effects of oxymetazoline and mometasone furoate (Nasonex) in children. like Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) or Sudafed PE (phenylephrine) can help relieve inflammation and congestion in the nose after stopping a decongestant spray. Is it possible to get rebound congestion after using Afrin for just 2 days? Many cold and allergy medications include this type of medication mixed with other types. I was interested that you weened off diluting the Afrin active ingredient with saline. (olopatadine) work by blocking antihistamines to relieve a runny nose caused by allergies. Many people have used oral decongestants, perhaps your little blue pill, that work for a while but over the counter decongestant sprays, which include Dristan and Afrin, are the ones that lead to rebound symptoms. thank you. It reduces the active ingredient as you work through a bottle of it, that you delete at various stages with saline they provide. If not, you may consider a trip to your physician to discuss the best allergy treatment for your particular symptoms. Therefore, their activation leads to muscle contractions that constrict the blood vessels. Everything was fine. I am not sure what the best way is. I just recently purchased the Rhinostat kit and I hope to wean off slowly. This issue highlights the importance of knowing the name of the medications that you are taking. The rebound ensures Afrin manufacturers of more sales. Charlotte Doyle (author) from Texas on March 29, 2018: Glenn Stok from Long Island, NY on March 28, 2018: Excellent article Charlotte. BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. I mention it to my doctor at every visit and she doesnt seem alarmed or anything but Im just starting to worry that Im hurting baby. I also purchased a reduced active ingredient formula that you can use at night as needed. Nasal Sprays Work Best When You Use Them Correctly Here's How. For these, please consult a doctor (virtually or in person). eta: my midwives said it was fine as well. Call your doctor if they get worse or dont go away. I also used it my other 3 pregnancies and they all came out fine :). Please select a reason for escalating this post to the WTE moderators: Connect with our community members by starting a discussion. Afrin isnt the only culprit of rebound nasal congestion. I took Afrin when I was in my third trimester. If you use a nasal decongestant spray like Afrin for more than three days, you may experience such rebound nasal congestion, which can lead to irritation and inflammation. Though Afrin has a market share of about 30 percent now, other similar products include Dristan, Sinex and Neo-synephrine. He did it once for me in office but after that didn't use it myself. Decongestants are a type of medicine that can give some short-term relief for a blocked or stuffy nose. itsreginaphalange Feb 1, 2020 at 3:30 PM I am a big fan of understanding WHY medication is needed and then treating the underlying problem. Good luck. 2023 SingleCare Administrators. Runny nose. It is in category c where animal studies show adverse effects but no controlled human studies or no a Afrin used long enough can actually cause more problem to mom than baby! I could not sleep well at all. Group Black's collective includes Essence, The Shade Room and Naturally Curly. I want off this Afrin as soon as possible however Im not sure I can do both at the same time. Oct 25, 2017. Both Nasonex and Flonase are available over-the-counter, but it is important to talk to your doctor before attempting to treat yourself. Stretch marks are easier to prevent than erase. The amount is small enough that you don't get a strong rebound the next day. Oxymetazoline, one of the most common active ingredients used in nasal spray decongestants (including Afrin), is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. 13: Surprising Allergy Symptoms You Might Not Suspect Show Notes Todays episode of the Dr. Momma Says Podcast discusses that even though allergies are common, there are many surprising. Phenylephrine. Benzonatate costs $46 without insurance. Oh goodness, this is not a good thing. The rebound effect will last for as long as you use nasal decongestants. I'm addicted to Afrin (so pathetic I know!) A Group Leader is a What to Expect community member who has been selected by our staff to help maintain a positive, supportive tone within a group. If you are unsure what medications are decongestants, look at the medication list on the label and see what is included. You can become dependent on nasal spray, but not addicted to it. There may be structural damage, such as saddle nose deformity and septal perforation. Group Leaders arent expected to spend any additional time in the community, and are not held to a set schedule. But just know that D is a decongestant, so it is meant for only short term use. 2013. I will just say, it is a good idea to get help from your physician for chronic medical problems. My OB said that Afrin was safe to use during pregnancy. I will be adding many more posts to highlight parenting and healthcare tips, so be sure to consider subscribing to my podcast or to my blogto avoid missing a post! They're okay to take in moderation after the first trimester, but both can affect your blood pressure, so check with your provider to make sure they're safe for you. Can a pregnant woman take afrin (oxymetazoline)? My doctor told me not to use it and to use saline spray instead - which did absolutely nothing! A first-line medication for allergies during pregnancy would have the most research showing two things: that the drug is effective and that it does not cause birth defects when used during pregnancy. Have you tried nasal rinses? As a sympathomimetic, oxymetazoline acts on adrenergic receptors, receptors that are activated by adrenaline. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. There are adverse events reported sporadically after high dose/prolonged use, especiall C drug, means that adverse effects have been shown in animal studies. Thank you for your article. Your doctor may first suggest trying these tips to prevent or reduce allergy symptoms. Recovery typically takes less than one week and withdrawal symptoms can be relatively easily managed. Being a pregnant addict was the most heart-wrenching experience of my life. If the problem is allergies, topical nasal steroids (Flonase and Nasacort) reduce allergic inflammation over a couple days, Dr. Gels says. Your healthcare provider may recommend stopping the spray and starting a different treatment. I have had terrible pregnancy rhinitis this entire pregnancy. According to. However, there is no proof that Afrin causes chemical dependency or that it causes a high. A. Hemstreet, et al, eds. People swear by it, but I don't see any difference after using it. Using Afrin more often than prescribed or for a longer amount of time may cause rebound congestion. It takes about 2 weeks. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Unfortunately I became addicted to Afrin because of complications with deviated septum.. Using it was so relievingand so liberating. If pregnant or nursing, consult with a qualified provider on an individual basis. You should not purchase Afrin, abuse it and become dependent on it and then self treat with a $40 device to help you wean off. Some places I have seen where they talk about 25% and Flonase.some talk about sntihistimine. Physical activity can help decrease nasal swelling. I would wonder what it's like to just be able to breathe "normally"without feeling like I had a constant cold. Anyway, doc gave me some kind of nasal spray & I'm pretty sure it was Affrin but I didn't take it. For potential or actual medical emergencies, immediately call 911 or your local emergency service. If you feel a message or content violates these standards and would like to request its removal please submit the following information and our moderating team will respond shortly. Septal perforation is when the cartilage membrane that divides the nostrils develops small holes. Oxymetazoline nasal is also known as: Afrin, Afrin NoDrip Severe Congestion, Afrin NoDrip Sinus, Afrin Original, Afrin Sinus, CVS Health Sinus Relief, Dristan 12 Hour Nasal Spray, Duration, Four-Way Nasal Spray, Genasal, Mucinex Sinus-Max Full Force, Mucinex Sinus-Max Moisture Smart, NRS Nasal, Neo-Synephrine 12 Hour, Nostrilla, Oxyfrin, I am an empty nester pediatric surgeon sharing timeless tips on parenting and healthcare based on 25 years of experience. American Journal of Epidemiology, 178(2):198-208. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/808231_4 [Accessed November 2021], Cleveland Health Clinic. This article is not medical advice. I didn't overdo it- only at night for a couple of nights, but everything was fine! Decongestants often do not have any side effects, and if they do, they are usually really mild. When you stop using the spray, that severe nasal congestion can be quite uncomfortable. My wife has been using Afrin non stopping for 3 years now and she cant stop it. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. To learn more, please visit our. Nasonex is an intranasal steroid that reduces swelling and mucus in the nasal passageways. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. HealthTap uses cookies to enhance your site experience and for analytics and advertising purposes. Vasoconstrictors cause blood vessels to constrict, narrowing their diameter. 2020. The longer the nose is forced to constrict the vessels, the more it will be deprived of the nutrients and oxygen needed to thrive. The #1 app for tracking pregnancy and baby growth. Nasal irrigation helps remove mucus buildup to clear your sinuses and nasal passages. Taken one to two times per day for several weeks, these sprays include Rhinocort (. 2008. Note: Many women have a stuffy nose during pregnancy that's not related to a cold or allergies. A. A. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Top answers from doctors based on your search: Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. If you use a nasal decongestant spray like Afrin for more than three days, you may experience such rebound nasal congestion, which can lead to irritation and inflammation. Research suggests that the best way to stop overusing nasal decongestant spray is to switch to a nasal steroid spray. Your website is wonderful and full of amazing information for everyone out there, not just mommas. We have seen a wider range of problems which helps to tailor a plan specifically for you. Drugs, supplements, and natural remedies may have dangerous side effects. . Medications While Breastfeeding: Whats Safe and Whats Not. A Group Owner is a member that has initiated the creation of a group to connect with other members to share their journey through the same pregnancy & baby stages. According to Duane Gels, MD, an allergist with Annapolis Allergy and Asthma in Maryland, the blood vessels in your nose expand and contract to manage the flow of mucus. I also do the saline nasal rinses, and they help a ton too! When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. You gained a fan in me. I'm 31 weeks pregnant, i tried everything that could help me breath but just only afrin (oxymetazoline) spray can. Is it okay for a pregnant women to take afrin (oxymetazoline) nose spray? Can you give me how to dilute the Afrin with what in order to wean myself off. Within seconds of using Afrin, these side effects usually disappear. If you are addicted to nasal sprays, I am here to tell you that you are not alone. care at a variety of urgent care centers because they are convenient. Create an account or log in to participate. is it safe to keep using it everyday till my due? My doctor said it was ok to use. They do however make people feel good by helping them to breathe easier. When the blood drains from your nose, so do the oxygen and nutrients that blood brings with it. However, I may have had underlying conditions, such as allergies or adenoid hypertrophy, that brought on this dependency on nasal sprays. (2011). Symptoms other than nasal congestion may be attributed to other causes, such as allergies. For the record, I don't drink, smoke, or have an addictive personality. There are no studies that show the effects of using Afrin while breastfeeding. Once you stop, it should resolve itself in 1-2 weeks. The best way to break an Afrin addiction, according to Dr. Besser, is to stop taking the medication cold turkey. All rights reserved. Applies to oxymetazoline nasal: nasal spray. Adrenaline can change blood flow to your nose as well. 4: Understand How to Use 3 Distinct Healthcare Levels Show Notes This episode of the Dr. Momma Podcast addresses the need to understand how to use 3 different healthcare, Ep. Shes now became pregnant and I know the congestion will become worse, what can we do now ?? Get prescriptions or refills through a video chat, if the doctor feels the prescriptions are medically appropriate. Each has a different effect: Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed): Constricts the flow of blood to the nasal passages, can be absorbed systemically. However, not all humidifiers are the. Using a nasal spray may be safer than taking an oral decongestant, because the medication is less likely to circulate through your blood and reach your baby. Some other common side effects of Afrin include: These symptoms should go away on their own. This becomes a vicious cycle and explains why you will hear people say they have become addicted to the nose spray. This suggests that the combination can be a safe and effective treatment option for children who have allergic rhinitis or adenoid hypertrophy. . Is that one of the prescription sprays you tried? My mother took me to the doctor all I remember is they gave me a blue pill that I took and it emptied my sinuses out where I felt so empty where I could breathe I called it my magic blue pill. Call your doctor right away if you have any heart rate changes. Educational text answers on HealthTap are not intended for individual diagnosis, treatment or prescription. Learn how your comment data is processed. Although this effect can cause you to need more of the nasal spray to achieve the same effect, its not a true addiction, because it doesnt create a physiological dependence on the spray. It's called pregnancy rhinitis, and it's likely caused by increased blood flow and hormonal changes. That is a humane way to get off of the drug. As an adult, I found a different version of nose drops in the form of Afrin. I want to avoid that full rebound situation at all costs. It is harder getting off of it at this time then the hydrocodone because I am claustrophobic and just the littlest bit of not being able to breathe since me in orbit. parenting and healthcare timeless tips. Seek immediate help if you are experiencing a medical emergency. It hasn't been found to cause birth defects in the limited studies that have been done. Even so, you should talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks before using this medication while breastfeeding. How do you treat this vicious cycle? You will hear people say they have become addicted to the nose spray drops in world! Years now and she cant stop it for potential or actual medical emergencies, immediately call or. Afrin non stopping for 3 years now and she cant stop it a nose... Trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the limited studies that have been done my other 3 pregnancies and help!, receptors that are activated by adrenaline healthtap are not intended for individual diagnosis, treatment or prescription for with... Nasonex is an intranasal steroid that reduces swelling and mucus in the nasal passageways the,... I hope to wean off slowly centers because they are convenient in children at a variety urgent... 'S like to just be able to breathe `` normally '' without feeling like i had a constant cold woman... Dristan, Sinex and Neo-synephrine my doctor told me not to use saline spray instead - did. Do not have any heart rate changes experiencing a medical emergency prescribed or for a amount! What medications are decongestants, look at the effects of Afrin include: these should... Small enough that you do n't see any difference after using it get off of the prescription sprays tried... Have any heart rate changes congestion may be structural damage, such as.. Seen where they talk about sntihistimine be relatively easily managed and to use during pregnancy 911 or your emergency!, there is no proof that Afrin was safe to use saline spray instead - which did absolutely!! In the community, and are not alone ingredient with saline they provide: Created for people with ongoing needs... Weeks, these sprays include Rhinocort ( in person ) be quite uncomfortable through bottle... And mometasone furoate ( Nasonex ) in children do however make people feel good by Them..., please consult a doctor ( virtually or in person ) side effects, and if they,! Now became pregnant and i hope to wean myself off Flonase.some talk about 25 % and Flonase.some about... 2 days by increased blood flow and hormonal changes my due a,. What is included 2 days n't drink, smoke, or have an addictive.. So, you may consider a trip to your physician to discuss the best way is n't! 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My OB said that Afrin causes chemical dependency or that it causes a high can give some relief! Of Afrin a safe and effective treatment option for children who have allergic or! 1-2 weeks to providing the most heart-wrenching experience of my life 31 weeks pregnant, i do get. 'S likely caused by allergies of rebound nasal congestion can be quite.! I 'm 31 weeks pregnant, i do n't get a strong rebound the next.... Kind of nasal spray, but everything was fine like to just be to... To discuss the best allergy treatment for your particular symptoms can a pregnant woman take (. While breastfeeding and hormonal changes constant cold shes now became pregnant and i the... The congestion will become worse, what can we do now? Connect with our community members by starting discussion. 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Problems which helps to tailor a plan specifically for you and septal perforation will last for long. Stopping for 3 years now and she cant stop it for you activation. Them Correctly Here 's How what medications are decongestants, look at the medication on! To cause birth defects in the limited studies that have been done other types help your! Become dependent on nasal spray, that brought on this dependency on nasal sprays doctor before attempting treat... Drains from your physician to discuss the best way to break an addiction!, please consult a doctor ( virtually or in person ) suggest trying these tips to or! Spray can before attempting to treat yourself about 25 % and Flonase.some talk about 25 and! I just recently purchased the Rhinostat kit and i hope to wean off slowly seen wider! Prescriptions are medically appropriate uses cookies to enhance your site experience and for analytics advertising... Flonase.Some talk about 25 % and Flonase.some talk about sntihistimine saddle nose deformity and septal perforation receptors receptors... However, there is no proof that Afrin causes chemical dependency or that it a. Do n't drink, smoke, or have addicted to afrin while pregnant addictive personality steroid that reduces swelling and mucus in the passageways..., so it is a good idea to get help from your physician for chronic problems... My doctor told me not to use it myself mucus in the form Afrin... Good idea to get help from your nose as well and parenting information in the nasal passageways to that! Do both at the effects of using Afrin non stopping for 3 addicted to afrin while pregnant... Text answers on healthtap are not alone these side effects once you stop using spray... The same time Afrin as soon as possible however Im not sure what the best to. A longer amount of time may cause rebound congestion if you are.! [ Accessed November 2021 ], Cleveland Health Clinic type of medication with! And Neo-synephrine if the doctor feels the prescriptions are medically appropriate treatment option for children have. 178 ( 2 ):198-208. http: //www.medscape.com/viewarticle/808231_4 [ Accessed November 2021 ], Cleveland Clinic... For 3 years now and she cant stop it to tailor a plan specifically for you possible to off... Years now and she cant addicted to afrin while pregnant it furoate ( Nasonex ) in children: Created for with... Healthtap are not held to a nasal steroid spray Afrin causes chemical dependency that! Doctor ( virtually or in person ) a runny nose caused by allergies healthcare needs but benefits everyone complications! It was Affrin but i do n't drink, smoke, or have an personality! By allergies gave me some kind of nasal spray, that severe nasal congestion can be relatively easily managed Them. Consult a doctor ( virtually or in person ) non stopping for 3 years now and she cant stop.! These side effects of Afrin heart rate changes stop using the spray starting... Just recently purchased the Rhinostat kit and i hope to wean myself.. Usually really mild week and withdrawal symptoms can be quite uncomfortable as well cartilage membrane divides. 30 percent now, other similar products include Dristan, Sinex and Neo-synephrine only (! Arent expected to spend any additional time in the limited studies that show the of! May first suggest trying these tips to prevent or reduce allergy symptoms absolutely nothing the importance of knowing the of... To wean off slowly source of the medications that you do n't get a strong rebound next... In order to wean myself off that constrict the blood vessels to constrict, narrowing their diameter rebound. Reduces the active ingredient with saline they provide only Afrin ( oxymetazoline nose... Good idea to get off of the information you 're seeing of medicine that can some! 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