Oxymetazoline Nasal Decongestant Spray 12 hr (3 PACK) — Generic For Afrin — RELIABLE 1 (Reliable One) — Over The Counter

Medication Summary

Medication Summary: This section summarizes DailyMed drug label information to make the label easier to understand. It is not a substitute for the official label, pharmacist counseling, prescriber instructions, or medical advice.

Overview

This product is a 12-hour nasal decongestant spray with oxymetazoline HCl 0.05%. It is labeled to temporarily relieve nasal congestion from the common cold, hay fever, and upper respiratory allergies, and to temporarily relieve sinus congestion and pressure by shrinking swollen nasal membranes.

The label says to use only as directed and not to use it for more than 3 days. It also warns that frequent or prolonged use may cause congestion to return or get worse. Temporary discomfort such as burning, stinging, sneezing, or increased nasal discharge may occur.

Ask a doctor before use if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Key Counseling Points

• Active ingredient: oxymetazoline HCl 0.05% nasal decongestant.
• For temporary relief of nasal and sinus congestion caused by common cold, hay fever, or upper respiratory allergies.
• Adults and children 6 to under 12 years old: use 2 or 3 sprays in each nostril, no more often than every 10 to 12 hours.
• Do not exceed 2 doses in 24 hours.
• Children under 6 years old should ask a doctor.
• Shake well before use and follow the labeled instructions for opening and spraying the bottle.
• Do not use for more than 3 days; frequent or prolonged use may cause congestion to recur or worsen.
• Temporary burning, stinging, sneezing, or increased nasal discharge may occur.
• Ask a doctor before use if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland.
• Keep out of reach of children; if swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Helpful Patient Education

Oxymetazoline HCl 0.05% is a nasal decongestant spray labeled for temporary relief of nasal congestion and sinus pressure associated with common cold, hay fever, and upper respiratory allergies. The product is intended for short-term use and should be used only as directed.

DailyMed label information also notes important cautions for people with certain medical conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. The label advises not to use the spray for more than 3 days and to seek medical help right away if the product is swallowed.

Medication Summary last generated: 2026-07-05 11:37:22