Generic name: sodium chloride (nasal) [ soe-dee-um-klor-ide ]
Drug class: Nasal lubricants and irrigations
Availability: Over the counter
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
Brand names: Entsol (nasal), Neilmed nasogel (nasal), Neilmed sinus rinse kit (nasal), Ocean (nasal), Rhinaris mist (nasal)
What is Afrin saline (nasal)?
There are many brands and forms of sodium chloride nasal available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet.
Afrin Saline (for use in the nose) is used to treat stuffy nose, post-nasal drip, dryness inside your nose and nasal passages, or nasal irritation caused by colds, flu, allergies, or pollutants.
This product contains a purified gentle salt solution (also called saline). It does not contain any active drug or medicine.
Afrin Saline may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on the product label and package. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if you have questions.
How should I use Afrin saline (nasal)
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Always follow directions on the product label about giving this product to a child.
Do not take by mouth. Nasal products are for use only in the nose.
Afrin Saline is available in many different forms such as a spray, gel, swab, or powder to be mixed with water and used as a nasal rinse.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with the product you use. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.
You may need to gently blow your nose before using this product.
If you have inserted the spray bottle tip inside your nose, rinse the tip with hot water and dry with a clean tissue after use.
Some nasal sprays bottles will deliver the product as a spray when used with the bottle upright or as a drop when you turn the bottle upside down.
If directed on the product label, wipe the tip of the bottle or nozzle with a clean tissue after each use.
Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with Afrin Saline does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product.
Follow all directions on the label about when to replace Afrin Saline. You may need to throw away the container after a certain amount of time has passed, even if some of the product is still left inside.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
If your nasal product comes in a spray canister, keep the can away from open flame or high heat. The canister may explode if it gets too hot. Do not puncture or burn an empty nasal spray canister.
Before Taking
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this product is safe to use if you have medical conditions or allergies.
Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since Afrin Saline nasal is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of sodium chloride nasal is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the product.
What should I avoid while using Afrin saline (nasal)?
Avoid getting Afrin Saline in your eyes.
Avoid sharing nasal products with other people. Sharing a nasal spray container or applicator that is inserted into the nose can allow infections or disease to pass from one person to another.
Afrin saline (nasal) side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See more: Afrin saline (nasal) Side Effects