Ask Dr Sears
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
MENUMENU
  • Brain Health
  • Coronavirus
  • Pregnancy & Childbirth
  • Feeding & Eating
  • Parenting & Behavior
  • Health Concerns
  • A to Z Topics
  • Blog
  • About Us
  • Wellness Institute
  • Home
  • Topics
  • Health Concerns
  • Childhood Illnesses
  • Medicine Cabinet
  • Decongestant Nose Spray

Decongestant Nose Spray

Suggested uses: Severe nasal congestion, stubborn nosebleeds.

Decongestant nose sprays can quickly open congested nasal passages caused by colds, allergies, or sinus infections. I think of these sprays as a “quick-fix” when I am miserably congested, especially when trying to fall asleep. Decongestant nose sprays are only for short-term use, though, as there is a “rebound effect” that begins after two or three days of use.

Become a Dr. Sears Certified Health Coach

While generally reserved for older children, there are two circumstances that I have used these sprays or drops in children younger than two. First, I rarely use them in infants that are too congested to eat or sleep – this should only be done with the advice of a physician. Second, stubborn nosebleeds can quickly be stopped with 2 or 3 sprays in the bleeding nostril.

Related Articles

  • Triaminic AM Decongestant Liquid
  • Dimetapp Decongestant Pediatric Drops
  • Antihistamine & Decongestant

Two forms:

All the major brands (Afrin, Neo-Sinephrine, etc) and generic store brands come in two basic forms:

The Health Brain Book
  • 12-hour Oxymetazoline 0.05% – for age 6 years and up (Afrin 12 hour, Neo- Synephrine 12 hour)
  • 4-hour Phenylephrine – This comes in different strengths:
    • 0.125% – for age 2-6 years (Little Noses Pediatric Formula)
    • 0.25% – for age 6 to 12 years (Neo-Synephrine Mild Formula, Afrin Children’s Pump Mist)
    • 0.5% and 1% – for age 12 and up (Neo-Synephrine Regular or Extra Strength, Afrin Allergy)

DR. SEARS HELPFUL TIP FOR TREATING COLDS

When I give my children cold medications, I have found that the nasal passages can become too dry, that’s why it is important to use saline nasal spray throughout the day and a humidifier in the bedroom at night (see “natural cold treatments”).

Safety:

Use cautiously under two years of age. Possible rare side effects are headache, upset stomach and dizziness. If your child has a history of seizures, high blood pressure, heart disease, thyroid disease or is taking medications for any of these conditions, consult your doctor before taking this medication. Do not use this medication for more than three days.

Dosage:

two or three sprays as directed on package. Do not use for more than three days.

Juice Plus+ - The next best thing to fruits and vegetables.
August 28, 2013 October 2, 2017 Dr. Bill Sears
The Health Brain Book
Become a Dr. Sears Certified Health Coach
regular girl prebiotic fiber and probiotic blend for healthy natural balance

Vital Choice

Dr Poo: The Scoop on Comfortable Poop

About Ask Dr. Sears

AskDrSears.com is intended to help parents become better informed consumers of health care. The information presented in this site gives general advice on parenting and health care. Always consult your doctor for your individual needs.

Recent Articles

  • Why Vaping Increases the Severity of COVID
    Why Vaping Increases the Severity of COVIDFebruary 24, 20210
  • New Sibling in the Home
    New Sibling in the HomeFebruary 22, 20210
  • Self-Love and Postpartum Weight Loss Tips
    Self-Love and Postpartum Weight Loss TipsFebruary 11, 20210


Resources

  • Sears Parenting Library
  • Dr. Sears Family Newsletter
  • Dr. Sears Wellness Institute
  • Prime-Time Health

Connect

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

  • support@askdrsears.com
  • Contact Ask Dr Sears
  • About Ask Dr Sears
  • About Dr. William Sears
  • Dr. Sears Wellness Institute
  • Media Relations Information


© 2020 AskDrSears.com All Rights Reserved.