Otrivine

Blow your nose gently first, then insert the nozzle into one nostril, give a spray while breathing in gently, and repeat for the other nostril as directed. Follow the dose on the pack, and do not share the spray with anyone else.

Decongestant sprays like Otrivine are often best avoided in pregnancy unless advised, and a drug-free saline spray is usually recommended instead. Check with your pharmacist, midwife or GP before using Otrivine while pregnant.

No, Otrivine is a decongestant (its active ingredient is xylometazoline), not a steroid. It works by narrowing the blood vessels in the nose to quickly reduce swelling, which is different from how a steroid nasal spray works.

Otrivine works quickly, usually easing a blocked nose within a few minutes of use. That fast relief is helpful, but it is only meant for short-term use.

Only for a short course: do not use Otrivine for more than 7 days in a row, because using it for longer can cause 'rebound' congestion, where the nose becomes more blocked when you stop. If your congestion lasts beyond a week, switch to a saline spray and see your pharmacist or GP.

Otrivine's active ingredient narrows the swollen blood vessels inside the nose, which reduces the swelling and mucus and quickly opens up your airways. It relieves the congestion rather than treating what is causing it.