Otrivin 0.1% Drops

Xylometazoline eases a blocked or stuffy nose by narrowing the swollen blood vessels in the lining of the nose. This opens the nasal passages and reduces extra mucus.

It is used for short-term relief of nasal congestion from:

• colds
• hay fever and other allergic or long-lasting rhinitis
• sinusitis

Use xylometazoline only in the nose, exactly as the pack, your doctor or your pharmacist tells you. Do not use it more often than the label allows, especially in children and older people.

• Blow your nose gently before use.
• Before the first use, prime the pump by pressing it a few times until a fine mist comes out.
• Keep your head upright, place the nozzle just inside one nostril and breathe in gently as you spray. Repeat in the other nostril.
• Take care not to spray into your eyes.
• Wipe the nozzle clean and replace the cap after each use.
• Keep the bottle for your own use only, so infections are not passed on.
• Do not use it for more than 7 days in a row. If you forget a dose, do not use a double dose.

Common side effects are usually mild and affect the nose:

• dry, irritated or uncomfortable nose
• burning feeling in the nose or throat
• headache
• feeling sick
• nosebleeds (less common)
• trouble sleeping, dizziness or shakiness in sensitive people

Stop using it and get medical help straight away if you have:

• signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, or a severe itchy rash
• a fast or pounding heartbeat
• changes in your eyesight

Do not use xylometazoline if you are allergic to it, have very dry, crusted inflammation inside the nose, have narrow-angle glaucoma, have had recent brain surgery, have a phaeochromocytoma (a rare adrenal tumour), or have taken an MAOI antidepressant in the last 14 days. Many adult sprays are not for children under 12, so check the age on your pack.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before using it if you:

• have high blood pressure or heart or circulation problems (including long QT syndrome)
• have an overactive thyroid or diabetes
• have an enlarged prostate
• take tricyclic or tetracyclic antidepressants or any other medicines
• are pregnant or breastfeeding

Keep out of the sight and reach of children. Do not store above 30°C and do not use after the expiry date on the bottle.

Using a decongestant spray for longer than 7 days, or more often than directed, can make your nose feel blocked again or even worse (rebound congestion). See a doctor if your symptoms get worse or have not improved after 7 days. Some sprays contain benzalkonium chloride, which can irritate the nose. It is not expected to affect driving.