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Afrin No Drip

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Active ingredient
Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride 0.05 g/100 mL
Other brand names
Drug class
Vasoconstrictor
Dosage form
Spray, Metered
Route
Nasal
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 1999
Label revision date
December 5, 2025
Active ingredient
Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride 0.05 g/100 mL
Other brand names
Drug class
Vasoconstrictor
Dosage form
Spray, Metered
Route
Nasal
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 1999
Label revision date
December 5, 2025
Manufacturer
Bayer HealthCare LLC.
Registration number
M012
NDC root
11523-3142

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Drug Overview

Afrin is a nasal decongestant that contains oxymetazoline HCl, designed to provide fast and powerful relief from nasal congestion. It works by temporarily shrinking swollen nasal membranes, helping you breathe more freely. Afrin is effective for relieving congestion caused by the common cold, hay fever, and upper respiratory allergies, as well as alleviating sinus congestion and pressure.

This maximum strength formulation offers relief for up to 12 hours, making it a convenient option for those seeking quick relief from nasal discomfort. Afrin is the #1 recommended nasal spray brand by doctors and pharmacists, and it comes in a 15 mL (1/2 FL OZ) bottle for easy use.

Uses

If you're dealing with nasal congestion from a common cold, hay fever, or upper respiratory allergies, this medication can help provide temporary relief. It works by shrinking swollen nasal membranes, allowing you to breathe more freely. Additionally, it can relieve sinus congestion and pressure, making it easier for you to feel comfortable.

Dosage and Administration

Before using this medication, make sure to shake the bottle well. If it's your first time using it, you'll need to remove the protective cap from the tip and prime the metered pump by pressing it down firmly several times. To apply the spray, hold the bottle with your thumb at the base and your fingers around the nozzle. Keep your head upright, insert the nozzle into your nostril, and press down firmly on the rim while sniffing deeply.

For adults and children aged 6 to under 12 years, you can use 2 or 3 sprays in each nostril, but make sure not to do this more than every 10 to 12 hours. 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. After using the spray, remember to wipe the nozzle clean to keep it in good condition.

What to Avoid

It's important to use this medication responsibly. You should not use it for more than three days, and always follow the directions provided. Using it longer than recommended can lead to a return or worsening of nasal congestion. Additionally, make sure not to exceed the directed dosage, as doing so can lead to unwanted effects. Always prioritize your health and safety by adhering to these guidelines.

Side Effects

You may experience some temporary discomfort while using this product, which can include burning, stinging, sneezing, or an increase in nasal discharge. These side effects are generally mild and should resolve on their own.

However, if your symptoms persist, it’s important to stop using the product and consult a doctor for further advice.

Warnings and Precautions

Before using this medication, 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, as doing so may lead to worsening nasal congestion. You might experience temporary discomfort like burning, stinging, sneezing, or increased nasal discharge. Additionally, sharing this medication with others can spread infections.

If you accidentally swallow the medication, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately. If your symptoms do not improve, stop using the medication and reach out to your doctor for further advice.

Overdose

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

Signs of an overdose can vary, but if you suspect an overdose has occurred, do not hesitate to get help. Acting quickly can make a significant difference in ensuring safety and health. Always remember, if you have any concerns about potential overdose, reaching out for professional assistance is the best course of action.

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

Geriatric Use

While there is no specific information about the use of this medication in older adults, it’s important to remember that each person’s health needs can vary. Since the insert does not mention any age-related dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions for elderly patients, you should always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication. They can help ensure that the treatment is appropriate for your individual health situation and any other medications you may be taking.

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 is safe and effective for your specific condition. They can help determine the best approach for managing your health, especially if you have concerns about your kidneys.

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 if you have hepatic impairment (liver issues).

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss any concerns regarding your liver health and how it may relate to your treatment. They can help ensure that you receive the safest and most effective care.

Drug Interactions

It's important to have open conversations with your healthcare provider about any medications or tests you may be taking. Currently, there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted for this medication. However, every individual is different, and your healthcare provider can help ensure that your treatment is safe and effective based on your unique health needs. Always feel free to ask questions and share all the medications and supplements you are using to avoid any potential issues.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it in a cool, dry place at a temperature between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). This temperature range helps maintain the product's effectiveness and safety. It's also important to keep the original carton, as it contains valuable information about the product's labeling that you may need for future reference.

When handling the product, always do so with clean hands and in a clean environment to avoid contamination. Following these guidelines will help you use the product safely and effectively.

Additional Information

You will use this medication through your nose (nasal administration). If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before using this product. Additionally, keep it out of reach of children. If a child accidentally swallows it, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

FAQ

What is Afrin?

Afrin is an oxymetazoline HCl nasal solution used as a nasal decongestant.

What conditions does Afrin relieve?

Afrin temporarily relieves nasal congestion due to the common cold, hay fever, and upper respiratory allergies, as well as sinus congestion and pressure.

How long does Afrin provide relief?

Afrin provides relief for up to 12 hours.

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

The recommended dosage is 2 or 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 should I do if I experience discomfort while using Afrin?

Temporary discomfort such as burning, stinging, sneezing, or an increase in nasal discharge may occur. If symptoms persist, stop use and ask a doctor.

Are there any warnings before using Afrin?

Yes, 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.

Can I use Afrin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

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

How should Afrin be stored?

Store Afrin between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F).

What should I do if I accidentally swallow Afrin?

If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

How long can I use Afrin?

Do not use Afrin for more than 3 days. Frequent or prolonged use may cause nasal congestion to recur or worsen.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Afrin No Drip (oxymetazoline hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Afrin No Drip.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Afrin No Drip, 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 associated with the common cold, hay fever, and upper respiratory allergies. It also provides temporary relief from sinus congestion and pressure. Additionally, this drug acts to shrink swollen nasal membranes, facilitating easier breathing.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

Adults and children aged 6 to under 12 years of age, when administered under adult supervision, may receive 2 or 3 sprays in each nostril. Dosing should not occur more frequently than every 10 to 12 hours, and it is important not to exceed 2 doses within a 24-hour period. For children under 6 years of age, consultation with a physician is recommended prior to use.

Prior to administration, the bottle should be shaken well. For first-time use, the protective cap must be removed from the tip, and the metered pump should be primed by firmly depressing the pump several times. To administer the spray, the healthcare professional should instruct the patient to hold the bottle with the thumb at the base and the nozzle positioned between the first and second fingers. The nozzle should be inserted into the nostril without tilting the head. The rim should be fully depressed with a firm, even stroke while the patient sniffs deeply. After use, the nozzle should be wiped clean to maintain hygiene.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in patients who exceed the recommended dosage or use it for more than three consecutive days. Prolonged or frequent use may lead to a recurrence or worsening of nasal congestion.

Warnings and Precautions

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

It is essential to adhere strictly to the recommended dosage guidelines. Patients should not exceed the directed use and should limit the duration of use to no more than three days. Prolonged or frequent use may lead to a recurrence or worsening of nasal congestion. Temporary side effects, including burning, stinging, sneezing, or an increase in nasal discharge, may occur during use. Additionally, sharing this product among multiple users may pose a risk of infection transmission.

In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the Poison Control Center should be contacted without delay.

Healthcare providers should advise patients to discontinue use and consult a physician if symptoms persist, ensuring that appropriate follow-up care is provided.

Side Effects

Patients using this product may experience temporary discomfort, which can include sensations of burning, stinging, sneezing, or an increase in nasal discharge. These reactions are generally mild and transient.

If symptoms persist, patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.

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 necessary at this time.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Afrin No Drip (oxymetazoline hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Afrin No Drip.
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 or 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. Adult supervision is advised during administration for this age group.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information regarding the use of this medication in geriatric patients. The prescribing information does not provide any recommended age considerations, dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions for elderly patients. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise clinical judgment when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients, considering individual patient factors and potential comorbidities. Regular monitoring may be warranted to ensure safety and efficacy in 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.

Lactation

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

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 clinical trials for this medication. Consequently, there is no available information regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions 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 warranted based on clinical judgment.

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 should advise caregivers to contact a Poison Control Center without delay.

Prompt intervention is crucial to mitigate potential adverse effects associated with overdosage. Symptoms may vary depending on the specific substance involved; therefore, a thorough assessment and appropriate management strategies should be implemented based on clinical presentation and established guidelines.

Nonclinical Toxicology

If pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult a health professional prior to use. Temporary discomfort may occur, including symptoms such as burning, stinging, sneezing, or an increase in nasal discharge. No additional relevant information regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology has been identified.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available in the insert text.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this product out of reach of children. 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 emphasize that patients must not exceed the directed dosage and should not use it for more than three days. 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. It is important to inform patients that using this container by more than one person may increase the risk of spreading infection.

Additionally, healthcare providers should 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 carton that should be retained for future reference on the full labeling. It is essential to store the product at a temperature range of 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) to ensure its stability and efficacy. Proper storage conditions must be maintained to preserve the integrity of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

The route of administration for the medication is nasal. Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a health professional prior to use. Additionally, it is important to keep the medication out of reach of children; if ingested, patients should seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Afrin No Drip, 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 Afrin No Drip, 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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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.