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Dristan

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Active ingredient
Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride 0.5 mg/1 mL
Other brand names
Drug class
Vasoconstrictor
Dosage form
Spray
Route
Nasal
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2021
Label revision date
October 24, 2025
Active ingredient
Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride 0.5 mg/1 mL
Other brand names
Drug class
Vasoconstrictor
Dosage form
Spray
Route
Nasal
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2021
Label revision date
October 24, 2025
Manufacturer
Foundation Consumer Brands
Registration number
M012
NDC root
80070-400

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Drug Overview

Dristan is a nasal decongestant spray that contains oxymetazoline HCl (a medication that helps relieve nasal congestion). It is designed to provide fast-acting relief from nasal congestion caused by colds, hay fever, or other upper respiratory allergies. By temporarily shrinking swollen membranes in your nasal passages, Dristan helps restore freer breathing and alleviates sinus congestion and pressure.

This 12-hour nasal spray is available in a 0.5 fluid ounce (15 mL) bottle, making it a convenient option for those seeking quick relief from the discomfort of nasal congestion.

Uses

If you're dealing with nasal congestion from a cold, hay fever, or other upper respiratory allergies, this medication can help. It works by temporarily relieving the swelling in your nasal passages, making it easier for you to breathe through your nose.

In addition to easing nasal congestion, it also helps reduce sinus congestion and pressure, providing you with relief from discomfort. By shrinking the swollen membranes in your nose, this medication allows for freer breathing, so you can feel more comfortable throughout your day.

Dosage and Administration

When using this nasal spray, adults and children aged 6 to under 12 years should use 2 to 3 sprays in each nostril. You can do this no more often than every 10 to 12 hours, and it's important not to exceed 2 doses in a 24-hour period. If your child is under 6 years old, please consult a doctor before use.

To apply the spray, hold the bottle upright and squeeze it quickly and firmly. Make sure not to tilt your head backward while spraying. After each use, wipe the nozzle clean to keep it free from any residue, and remember to replace the cap tightly to ensure it remains child-resistant.

What to Avoid

It's important to use this medication responsibly to ensure your safety and well-being. You should not use it for more than three days, and always follow the directions provided. Using more than directed can lead to potential issues, so please adhere to the recommended dosage.

Additionally, sharing this medication with others is not advisable, as it may spread infection. Keeping these guidelines in mind will help you use the medication safely and effectively.

Side Effects

Using this product may lead to some side effects. You might experience temporary discomfort, which can include burning, stinging, sneezing, or an increase in nasal discharge. Additionally, if you use it frequently or for a long time, you may find that nasal congestion returns or worsens.

If your symptoms continue despite using the product, it's important to stop using it and consult a doctor for further advice.

Warnings and Precautions

Before using this product, it's important to consult your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Always follow the directions carefully—do not exceed the recommended dosage or use it for more than three days. Prolonged use can lead to worsening nasal congestion, and you may experience temporary discomfort like burning, stinging, sneezing, or increased nasal discharge. Additionally, sharing this product with others can spread infections.

If your symptoms do not improve, stop using the product and contact your doctor. Keep this medication out of reach of children, and if it is swallowed, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Overdose

It's important to keep this medication out of reach of children. If a child accidentally swallows it, you should seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

In case of an overdose, you may notice symptoms such as unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. If you or someone else experiences these signs, it's crucial to get medical assistance right away. Always prioritize safety and act quickly in these situations.

Pregnancy Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this medication. They can provide guidance on whether it’s safe for you and your baby. Always prioritize your health and the health of your child by seeking expert advice.

Lactation Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication. This ensures that you understand any potential risks and can make informed decisions about your health and the health of your baby. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor regarding your breastfeeding journey.

Pediatric Use

If you have a child under 6 years old, it's important to consult with a doctor before using this medication. For children aged 6 to under 12 years, you can use it with adult supervision. The recommended dosage is 2 to 3 sprays in each nostril, but make sure not to use it more than once every 10 to 12 hours, and do not exceed 2 doses in a 24-hour period. Always follow these guidelines to ensure your child's safety and well-being.

Geriatric Use

While there is no specific information available about the use of this medication in older adults, it’s important to approach any new treatment with caution. If you or a loved one is an older adult, it’s wise to discuss any potential risks or benefits with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the best course of action based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken.

Always keep in mind that older adults may have different responses to medications, so regular check-ins with your healthcare team are essential to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that the information provided does not include specific guidelines for dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations related to renal impairment (kidney issues). This means that there are no tailored recommendations for how your treatment may need to change based on your kidney function.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that your treatment plan is safe and effective for your specific situation. They can help monitor your kidney health and make any necessary adjustments to your medications.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or precautions for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication may affect you differently due to your liver health.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss any concerns you may have regarding your liver function and how it relates to your treatment. They can help ensure that your medication is safe and effective for you.

Drug Interactions

It's important to have open conversations with your healthcare provider about any medications or tests you may be taking. While there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted for this medication, your healthcare provider can help ensure that everything you are taking works well together and is safe for you. Always share your complete list of medications and any recent lab tests to avoid any potential issues. Your health and safety should always come first.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it at a temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F). This helps maintain its effectiveness. When using the product, make sure the container is filled to the proper level; this is important for achieving the correct spray action. Additionally, keep the carton as it contains important labeling information that you may need for reference.

Handling the product safely is crucial, so always follow these storage guidelines to avoid any issues.

Additional Information

You should use this medication through the nasal route. For adults and children aged 6 to under 12 years (with adult supervision), the recommended dose is 2 to 3 sprays in each nostril, but you should not use it more often than every 10 to 12 hours and must not exceed 2 doses in a 24-hour period. If the patient is under 6 years old, consult a doctor for guidance on use.

FAQ

What is Dristan?

Dristan is a 12-hour nasal spray containing Oxymetazoline HCl 0.05%, used as a nasal decongestant for fast-acting relief.

How does Dristan work?

Dristan temporarily relieves nasal congestion due to colds, hay fever, or other upper respiratory allergies by shrinking swollen membranes and restoring freer breathing.

Who can use Dristan?

Adults and children aged 6 to under 12 years can use Dristan with adult supervision. Children under 6 should ask a doctor before use.

What is the recommended dosage for adults and children 6 to under 12?

The recommended dosage is 2 to 3 sprays in each nostril not more often than every 10 to 12 hours, with a maximum of 2 doses in any 24-hour period.

What precautions should I take when using Dristan?

Do not use more than directed or for more than 3 days. Frequent or prolonged use may worsen nasal congestion.

What side effects may occur with Dristan?

Possible side effects include temporary discomfort such as burning, stinging, sneezing, or increased nasal discharge.

When should I stop using Dristan and consult a doctor?

Stop use and ask a doctor if symptoms persist.

What should I do if I accidentally swallow Dristan?

Keep Dristan out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Can I use Dristan if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before using Dristan.

How should I store Dristan?

Store Dristan at 20-25°C (68-77°F) and retain the carton for full labeling.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Dristan (oxymetazoline hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Dristan.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Dristan, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

No description information is available for the drug.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of nasal congestion due to colds, hay fever, or other upper respiratory allergies. It effectively shrinks swollen membranes and restores freer breathing through the nose. Additionally, it provides relief from sinus congestion and pressure, alleviating discomfort associated with these conditions.

The drug is specifically designed to relieve nasal congestion resulting from colds and allergies, as well as to reduce swelling of the nasal passages.

Dosage and Administration

Adults and children aged 6 to under 12 years of age, when administered under adult supervision, are recommended to receive 2 to 3 sprays in each nostril. This should not occur more frequently than every 10 to 12 hours, and the total dosage must not exceed 2 doses within a 24-hour period.

For children under 6 years of age, it is advised to consult a physician prior to use.

To properly administer the spray, the healthcare professional should instruct the patient to squeeze the bottle quickly and firmly. It is important to avoid tilting the head backward during the spraying process. After use, the nozzle should be wiped clean, and the cap must be replaced tightly to ensure the child-resistant closure is maintained.

Contraindications

The product should not be used in the following situations:

  • Use is contraindicated if the dosage exceeds the directed amount.

  • Use is contraindicated for durations longer than 3 days.

  • The use of this container by more than one person is contraindicated due to the risk of spreading infection.

Warnings and Precautions

Healthcare professionals should exercise caution when recommending this product, particularly in patients with specific underlying health conditions. It is imperative to advise patients to consult a physician prior to use if they have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland.

When utilizing this product, adherence to the following precautions is essential to ensure safe use. Patients should not exceed the recommended dosage and should refrain from using the product for more than three consecutive days. It is crucial to use the product strictly as directed, as frequent or prolonged use may lead to a recurrence or worsening of nasal congestion. Patients may experience temporary discomfort, including burning, stinging, sneezing, or an increase in nasal discharge. Additionally, it is important to note that sharing this container with others may facilitate the spread of infection.

Healthcare providers should instruct patients to discontinue use and seek medical advice if symptoms persist. Furthermore, it is vital to keep this product out of reach of children. In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or contact with a Poison Control Center is recommended.

Side Effects

Frequent or prolonged use of this product may lead to a recurrence or worsening of nasal congestion. Patients may also experience temporary discomfort, which can include sensations of burning, stinging, sneezing, or an increase in nasal discharge.

It is advised that patients discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.

Drug Interactions

There are currently no documented drug interactions associated with this medication. Additionally, there are no known interactions with laboratory tests. As such, no specific recommendations for dosage adjustments or monitoring are warranted at this time.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Dristan (oxymetazoline hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Dristan.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 6 years of age should consult a healthcare professional before use. For children aged 6 to under 12 years, the recommended dosage is 2 to 3 sprays in each nostril, administered no more frequently than every 10 to 12 hours. It is important not to exceed 2 doses within a 24-hour period, and adult supervision is advised during administration.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding the use of this medication, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. The potential risks and benefits must be carefully weighed, as the effects on fetal outcomes and lactation are not fully established. It is essential for women of childbearing potential to seek medical advice to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing fetus or nursing infant.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is no specific data available regarding the excretion of this medication in breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when administering this medication to lactating individuals.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have not been specifically addressed in the available prescribing information. There are no dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or safety considerations outlined for individuals with reduced kidney function. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution and consider the lack of data when prescribing to this patient population.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to the use of this medication. Consequently, there are no established dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions outlined for individuals with compromised liver function. It is recommended that healthcare providers exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with hepatic impairment, given the lack of data on its safety and efficacy in this population. Regular monitoring of liver function may be prudent in these cases, although specific parameters are not defined in the available information.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdosage, it is imperative to keep the product out of reach of children. Should ingestion occur, immediate medical assistance is required. Healthcare professionals are advised to contact a Poison Control Center without delay to ensure appropriate management and intervention.

Prompt action is crucial in mitigating potential adverse effects associated with overdosage. The symptoms may vary depending on the specific substance involved, and healthcare providers should be prepared to assess and manage any clinical manifestations that arise.

In summary, the key steps in managing an overdosage include securing the product away from children, seeking immediate medical help, and contacting a Poison Control Center for guidance on further actions.

Nonclinical Toxicology

If pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult a health professional prior to use. No specific non-teratogenic effects have been identified in the available data. Additionally, there are no detailed findings regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology provided in the current information.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has revealed reports of the following adverse reactions: burning, stinging, sneezing, and an increase in nasal discharge. These events were reported voluntarily or identified through surveillance programs.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this product out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. Instruct patients that if the product is swallowed, they should seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Patients should be informed to stop using the product and consult a doctor if symptoms persist. When using this product, it is essential to adhere to the following guidelines: do not exceed the recommended dosage, do not use the product for more than three days, and use it only as directed. Patients should be made aware that frequent or prolonged use may lead to a recurrence or worsening of nasal congestion. Additionally, they may experience temporary discomfort, which can include burning, stinging, sneezing, or an increase in nasal discharge. It is important to note that sharing this container with others may increase the risk of spreading infection.

Healthcare providers should also encourage patients to consult a doctor before using this product if they have any of the following conditions: heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in a container that is filled to the proper level to ensure correct spray action. It should be stored at a temperature range of 20-25°C (68-77°F). Healthcare professionals are advised to retain the carton for full labeling and additional information.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered via the nasal route. For adults and children aged 6 to under 12 years, it is recommended to use 2 to 3 sprays in each nostril, not more frequently than every 10 to 12 hours, with a maximum of 2 doses within a 24-hour period. For children under 6 years of age, consultation with a doctor is advised prior to use.

No additional information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, patient counseling, or postmarketing experience.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Dristan, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Dristan, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

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Primary FDA sources:

Orange Book data shown on this page are limited to Regulatory Status (Rx), Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC), and Mechanism of Action (MoA).

Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.