Otrivin Junior Nasal Spray (Xylometazoline Hydrochloride)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Prescription RequiredQuick Facts
What Is Otrivin Junior Nasal Spray Used For?
Otrivin Junior Nasal Spray is a nasal decongestant specifically designed for children aged 6-11 years. It provides quick relief from stuffy noses and helps clear nasal passages.
Primary Uses
This medication is used to relieve blocked nose caused by colds, flu, sinusitis, hay fever, or other allergic rhinitis conditions in children.
How It Works
The active ingredient xylometazoline hydrochloride works by reducing excessive nasal secretions and helping to clear nasal passages, providing quick relief from congestion.
Good to know: This medication is specifically formulated for children aged 6-11 years with a lower concentration than adult versions.
How to Take Otrivin Junior Nasal Spray
Always use this medication exactly as recommended and under adult supervision. Proper technique is important for effectiveness and safety.
Dosage Instructions
Give 2 sprays into each nostril up to 3 times daily as needed. Do not exceed 3 applications daily in each nostril. Do not use more often than every 8-10 hours. Prime the pump with 4 actuations before first use, or 2 actuations if not used for more than 7 days.
What If You Miss a Dose?
This medication is used as needed for congestion. If a dose is forgotten, do not give a double dose to make up for the missed one.
Important: Do not exceed the recommended dosage, especially in children. Do not use for more than 3 days at a time unless advised by a doctor.
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Headache
- Nasal dryness
- Nasal discomfort
- Nausea
- Application site burning
- Brief stinging sensation
- Sneezing
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Hypersensitivity reaction (swelling, rash, itching)
- Transient visual impairment
- Heart rate irregularities
- Increased heart rate
- Breathing problems in young infants
- Sudden severe headaches
- Visual disturbances
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing due to swelling
Important Warnings
There are important safety considerations before using this medication. Some children should not use this product at all.
Who Should Not Take Otrivin Junior Nasal Spray
Do not use in children below 6 years of age, children allergic to xylometazoline or other ingredients, children who have had pituitary gland removal through the nose, recent trans-nasal surgery, narrow angle glaucoma, or chronic nasal inflammation with very dry nasal passages.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Consult your doctor if your child has high blood pressure, heart disease, overactive thyroid, diabetes, difficulty urinating, enlarged prostate, tendency for nosebleeds, or a rare adrenal gland tumor (phaeochromocytoma).
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Do not use if your child is pregnant. If your child is breastfeeding, only use if recommended by your doctor.
Frequent Use Warning: Frequent or prolonged use may cause nasal congestion to recur or worsen. Excessive use may damage the lining of the nose.
Drug Interactions
Some medications can interact with this nasal spray and affect how it works or increase side effects.
MAO Inhibitor Warning: Use with MAO inhibitors may substantially increase blood pressure. Consult a doctor before use if your child takes these medications.
- Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors – not recommended if taken within the last 14 days
- Tri-cyclic antidepressants – may increase effects of xylometazoline
- Tetra-cyclic antidepressants – may increase effects of xylometazoline
Alcohol & Driving
This medication has minimal effects on driving ability, but caution is still advised until you know how it affects your child.
Alcohol
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if your child drinks alcohol.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful before your child drives or uses any machines or tools. This medication has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive and use machines.
Storage
Store below 30°C in the original package. Keep out of reach and sight of children. Do not store in the bathroom, near a sink, in the car, or on window sills. Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture, heat, or sunlight.
Overdose Information
If you think your child has used too much or accidentally swallowed the spray, seek urgent medical attention. Signs may include severe dizziness, sweating, severely lowered body temperature, headache, slow or rapid heartbeat, impaired breathing, coma, convulsions, or blood pressure changes. Immediately phone the Poisons Information Centre (Australia 13 11 26; New Zealand 0800 764 766), contact your doctor, or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Frequently Asked Questions
The medication works quickly to relieve stuffy nose and clear nasal passages, providing fast relief from congestion.
Do not use for more than 3 days at a time unless advised by a doctor or pharmacist. If congestion persists, seek medical advice.
Rinse the eyes thoroughly with running water and contact your doctor immediately for advice. Your child may experience temporary blurring of vision, eye irritation, or painful red eyes.
No, each pack should be used by only one person for hygiene reasons and to avoid possible spread of infection.
Excessive use may damage the lining of the nose and frequent or prolonged use may cause nasal congestion to recur or worsen. If overdose occurs, seek urgent medical attention.
Before using for the first time, prime the pump by actuating 4 times. If the product has not been used for longer than 7 days, re-prime with 2 actuations.
No, do not use Otrivin Junior Nasal Spray in children below 6 years of age. It is specifically indicated for children 6-11 years old.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.