Otrivin Adult Nasal Spray (Xylometazoline Hydrochloride)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Prescription RequiredQuick Facts
What Is Otrivin Adult Nasal Spray Used For?
Otrivin Adult Nasal Spray is a nasal decongestant that quickly relieves stuffy nose and helps clear nasal passages by reducing excessive nasal secretions. It is designed for adults and children 12 years and over.
Primary Uses
Used for relief of blocked nose caused by colds, flu, sinusitis, hay fever or other allergic rhinitis.
How It Works
Contains xylometazoline hydrochloride which works as a nasal decongestant to reduce excessive nasal secretions and clear blocked nasal passages.
Quick Relief: Provides quick relief for stuffy nose and helps clear nasal passages effectively
How to Take Otrivin Adult Nasal Spray
Always use exactly as recommended. Clear your nose before use, remove protective cap, and follow the step-by-step instructions for proper administration.
Dosage Instructions
1 spray 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. Before first use, prime the pump by actuating 4 times. If not used for longer than 7 days, re-prime with 4 actuations.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget to use Otrivin Adult Nasal Spray, do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten one. Simply use when needed according to the regular dosing schedule.
Important: Do not exceed the recommended dosage, especially in children and the elderly. 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
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Hypersensitivity reaction (angioedema, rash, pruritus)
- Transient visual impairment
- Heart rate irregular
- Heart rate increased
- Apnoea in young infants and newborns
- Sleep disturbances
- Dizziness
- Tremor in very sensitive patients
Important Warnings
There are important safety considerations and groups of people who should not use this medication. Always check with your healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions.
Who Should Not Take Otrivin Adult Nasal Spray
Do not use in children below 12 years of age, if allergic to xylometazoline or other ingredients, if you have had pituitary gland removed through the nose, undergone recent trans-nasal surgery, have narrow angle glaucoma, or have chronic nasal inflammation with very dry nasal passages.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Check with your doctor if you have high blood pressure, heart disease (e.g. long QT syndrome), overactive thyroid gland, diabetes, difficulty urinating and/or enlarged prostate gland, tendency to have nose bleeds, or phaeochromocytoma (rare adrenal gland tumor).
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Do not use if you are pregnant. If breastfeeding, should only be used if recommended by your doctor.
Rebound Congestion: Frequent or prolonged use may cause nasal congestion to recur or worsen. Excessive use may damage lining of nose.
Drug Interactions
Some medicines may interfere with Otrivin Adult Nasal Spray and affect how it works. It’s particularly important to mention certain medications to your healthcare provider.
Consult Doctor: If you use any of the mentioned medicines, consult a doctor before using Otrivin Adult Nasal Spray
- Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors – not recommended if taking or have taken within last 14 days as may substantially increase blood pressure
- Tri-cyclic and tetra-cyclic antidepressants – may increase the effects of xylometazoline
Alcohol & Driving
Otrivin Adult Nasal Spray has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive and use machines, but you should be careful until you know how it affects you.
Alcohol
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you drink alcohol.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful before you drive or use any machines or tools until you know how Otrivin Adult Nasal Spray affects you. The medication has no or negligible influence on driving ability.
Storage
Store below 30°C in the original package. Keep out of reach and sight of children. Store in a cool dry place away from moisture, heat or sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom, near a sink, in the car or on window sills. Do not use after the expiry date.
Overdose Information
If you think you have used too much or in case of accidental ingestion, you may need urgent medical attention. Signs may include severe dizziness, sweating, severely lowered body temperature, headache, slow or rapid heartbeat, impaired breathing, coma, convulsion, high blood pressure followed by low blood pressure. 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
Otrivin Adult Nasal Spray quickly relieves your stuffy nose and helps clear nasal passages, providing fast relief from blocked nose symptoms.
Do not use for more than 3 days at a time unless advised by a doctor or pharmacist. If congestion persists, seek medical advice as frequent or prolonged use may cause nasal congestion to recur or worsen.
Do not use in children below 12 years of age. Otrivin Junior Nasal Spray is available for children aged 6-11 years.
If you accidentally spray into your eyes, rinse the eyes thoroughly with running water and contact your doctor immediately for advice. You may experience temporary blurring of vision, irritation, painful or red eyes.
No, each pack should be used by only one person for reasons of hygiene and to avoid possible spread of infection.
Use 1 spray into each nostril up to 3 times daily as needed. Do not exceed 3 applications daily in each nostril and do not use more often than every 8-10 hours.
Common side effects like headache, nasal dryness, or burning sensation should be discussed with your doctor or pharmacist if they worry you. For serious side effects like allergic reactions, visual problems, or heart rate changes, call your doctor straight away or go to the Emergency Department.
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.