Its generic name isoxymetazolinenasal.
Afrin is sprayed in the nostrils to give temporary relief from nasal congestion caused byallergiesor colds.
What Is Afrin Used For?
Karl Tapales / Moment / Getty Images
Afrin is a decongestant medication used to reduce nasal and sinus stuffiness.
It’s commonly used to treatcongestion from the common coldor allergies.
Being congested can also cause difficulty breathing through your nose while you’re sleeping and may contribute tosnoringorsleep apnea.
Afrin can help with these symptoms.
It stimulates receptors in the smooth muscle of theblood vesselsin the nose and makes them narrow (constrict).
When the blood vessels constrict, it reduces nasal congestion.
If someone has overdosed on Afrin and is not breathing, call 911.
Most of them are not serious and will go away as soon as you stop using the medication.
Is Afrin Addictive?
If Afrin Does Not Work
Afrin is safe and effective when it’s used properly.
Summary
Afrin is a common decongestant medication used to treat cold and allergy symptoms.
It is sold over-the-counter (OTC).
You might need a different treatment, like nasal steroids, for your congestion.
National Library of Medicine.Oxymetazoline Nasal Spray.
Poison Control.Is Afrin addictive?.
