Recommended use of some nasal decongestant sprays limited to five days by UK regulator
Following a review of the available evidence and recommendations from Expert Advisory Groups to the Commission on Human Medicines, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has published a Drug Safety Update (DSU) on the safe use of nasal decongestant sprays and drops containing xylometazoline or oxymetazoline.
The DSU advises that these products should be used for no more than five consecutive days, due to the increased risk of side effects with prolonged use, including rebound congestion, tachyphylaxis and rhinitis medicamentosa. It also advises that these medicines remain safe and effective when used as directed, and that packaging and patient information will be transitioning over the coming months to reflect the revised advice.
Alongside the DSU, the MHRA has published a press release to support public awareness of this updated safety guidance.
Access the press release here: Recommended use of some nasal decongestant sprays limited to five days by UK regulator – GOV.UK