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Cvs Health

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Active ingredient
Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride 0.05 g/100 mL
Other brand names
Drug class
Vasoconstrictor
Dosage form
Spray
Route
Nasal
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2019
Label revision date
December 9, 2025
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Active ingredient
Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride 0.05 g/100 mL
Other brand names
Drug class
Vasoconstrictor
Dosage form
Spray
Route
Nasal
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2019
Label revision date
December 9, 2025
Manufacturer
CVS Pharmacy, Inc.
Registration number
M012
NDC root
69842-575
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Packaging Info
Packaging & NDC Codes

If you are a healthcare professional or from the pharmaceutical industry please visit this version.

If you are a consumer or patient please visit this version.

Drug Overview

Oxymetazoline HCl is a nasal decongestant that comes in a convenient 12-hour nasal spray form. It is designed to provide fast and powerful relief from nasal congestion caused by the common cold, hay fever, or other upper respiratory allergies. By shrinking swollen nasal membranes, it helps you breathe more freely and temporarily alleviates sinus congestion and pressure.

This medication is similar to the active ingredient found in Afrin® Original, making it a reliable option for those seeking quick relief from nasal discomfort.

Uses

If you're dealing with nasal congestion from a common cold, hay fever, or other 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 temporarily relieve sinus congestion and pressure, making it easier for you to feel comfortable.

Dosage and Administration

When using this medication, adults and children aged 6 to under 12 years should receive 2 or 3 sprays in each nostril. You can do this no more than every 10 to 12 hours, but make sure not to exceed 2 doses in a 24-hour period. If your child is under 6 years old, it’s important to consult a doctor before using this medication.

To apply the spray, hold the bottle upright and squeeze it quickly and firmly. Avoid tilting your head backward while spraying to ensure the medication is delivered properly. After each use, remember to wipe the nozzle clean to keep it free from any residue.

What to Avoid

It's important to use this medication responsibly to avoid potential issues. You should never use it for more than three days, as doing so can lead to a worsening of nasal congestion. Always follow the directions provided and do not exceed the recommended dosage. Frequent or prolonged use can cause your symptoms to return or worsen.

To ensure your safety, remember to use this medication only as directed. Avoid using it more than instructed, as misuse can lead to complications. Taking care to follow these guidelines will help you achieve the best results while minimizing risks.

Side Effects

You may experience some temporary discomfort while using this product, which can include burning, stinging, sneezing, or an increase in nasal discharge. If you use it frequently or for a long time, you might find that nasal congestion returns and even worsens.

If your symptoms continue, it's important to stop using the product 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.

While using this product, make sure to follow the directions carefully. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or use it for more than three days, as overuse can lead to worsening nasal congestion. You may experience temporary discomfort, such as 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. In case of accidental swallowing, seek emergency medical help immediately or call the Poison Control Center at (1-800-222-1222).

Overdose

If you or someone else has swallowed too much of this medication, it’s important to seek medical help immediately. You can contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.

Signs of an overdose may include unusual symptoms, but specific details on these symptoms are not provided here. If you notice anything concerning, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Remember, acting quickly can make a significant difference in ensuring safety and health.

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 or 3 sprays in each nostril, but make sure not to use it more than once 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 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 medications with a healthcare provider, especially considering factors like kidney function (renal impairment) and changes in cognitive abilities that can occur with age.

Always ensure that your healthcare team is aware of your age and any other health conditions, as they can help determine the safest and most effective dosage for you.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to consult your doctor before using this medication, especially if you experience difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Your healthcare provider can help determine if this medication is safe for you and may suggest adjustments to your dosage or monitoring based on your kidney function. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor regarding any concerns related to your kidney health.

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 should be used if you have hepatic impairment (liver issues).

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your liver health. They can help you understand how to manage your treatment effectively.

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 in a cool, dry place at a temperature between 20°-25°C (68°-77°F). This temperature range helps maintain the product's effectiveness and safety.

When handling the product, be sure to do so with clean hands and in a sterile field (a clean area free from germs) to prevent contamination. Always follow any specific disposal instructions provided to ensure safe and responsible disposal of any components.

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 dosage is 2 or 3 sprays in each nostril, not more than every 10 to 12 hours, and do 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 OXYMETAZOLINE HCl used for?

OXYMETAZOLINE HCl is a nasal decongestant used for the temporary relief of nasal congestion due to the common cold, hay fever, or other upper respiratory allergies.

How does OXYMETAZOLINE HCl work?

It temporarily relieves sinus congestion and pressure by shrinking swollen nasal membranes, allowing you to breathe more freely.

What are the instructions for using OXYMETAZOLINE HCl?

For adults and children 6 to under 12 years, use 2 or 3 sprays in each nostril every 10 to 12 hours, not exceeding 2 doses in 24 hours. Children under 6 should ask a doctor.

What should I do if symptoms persist?

Stop use and ask a doctor if symptoms persist.

Are there any side effects of using OXYMETAZOLINE HCl?

Temporary discomfort such as burning, stinging, sneezing, or increased nasal discharge may occur. Frequent use may worsen nasal congestion.

What precautions should I take before using OXYMETAZOLINE HCl?

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 OXYMETAZOLINE HCl if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

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

How should I store OXYMETAZOLINE HCl?

Store OXYMETAZOLINE HCl between 20°-25°C (68°-77°F).

What should I do if I accidentally swallow OXYMETAZOLINE HCl?

If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away at (1-800-222-1222).

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Cvs Health (nasal oxymetazoline hcl). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Cvs Health.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Cvs Health, 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, or other upper respiratory allergies. It also temporarily alleviates sinus congestion and pressure, and it works by shrinking swollen nasal membranes to facilitate easier breathing.

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

Dosage and Administration

For adults and 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 any 24-hour period.

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

To properly administer the spray, the healthcare professional should instruct the patient to squeeze the bottle quickly and firmly. It is essential that the patient does not tilt their head backward while spraying to ensure proper delivery of the medication. After use, the nozzle should be wiped clean to maintain hygiene and prevent contamination.

Contraindications

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

Warnings and Precautions

Healthcare professionals should exercise caution when recommending this product. Prior to use, it is imperative to consult a physician if the patient has any of the following conditions: heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland.

When administering this product, it is essential to adhere strictly to the recommended dosage. Patients should not exceed the directed use and should limit application to a maximum of three days. Prolonged or frequent use may lead to a rebound effect, resulting in worsened nasal congestion. Users may experience temporary discomfort, including burning, stinging, sneezing, or an increase in nasal discharge. Additionally, it is important to note that sharing this product among multiple users may facilitate the spread of infection.

Patients should be advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist. In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the Poison Control Center should be contacted at (1-800-222-1222).

Side Effects

Patients using this product may experience temporary discomfort, which can include burning, stinging, sneezing, or an increase in nasal discharge. These reactions are generally mild and transient. However, it is important to note that frequent and prolonged use of the product may lead to a recurrence and worsening of nasal congestion.

Patients are advised to 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 Cvs Health (nasal oxymetazoline hcl). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Cvs Health.
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, 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 safe use during pregnancy and lactation.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is currently no available data on the excretion of this drug in human 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 should consult a healthcare professional prior to use if they experience difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. This precaution is essential to ensure safe and effective use of the medication in individuals with reduced kidney function.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to 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 prescribing information.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdosage, immediate medical assistance is crucial. If the substance is ingested, healthcare professionals should advise patients or caregivers to seek medical help without delay. It is recommended to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for expert guidance.

Prompt intervention is essential to mitigate potential adverse effects associated with overdosage. Symptoms may vary depending on the specific substance involved, and healthcare providers should be prepared to assess and manage these symptoms accordingly.

Management procedures may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the individual patient's needs. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are advised to ensure patient safety and effective recovery.

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 is available.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available in the insert.

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 at 1-800-222-1222.

Patients should be informed to stop using the product and consult a doctor if symptoms persist. It is important to emphasize that when using this product, patients must not exceed the directed dosage and should not use it for more than three days. Frequent and prolonged use may lead to a recurrence and worsening of nasal congestion.

Patients may experience temporary discomfort, including burning, stinging, sneezing, or an increase in nasal discharge. Additionally, inform patients that sharing this container with others may increase the risk of spreading infection.

Healthcare providers should also recommend that patients 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 various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It is essential to store the product at a controlled room temperature, specifically between 20° and 25°C (68° and 77°F). Proper storage conditions are crucial to maintain the integrity and efficacy of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered via the nasal route. For adults and children aged 6 to under 12 years, the recommended dosage is 2 or 3 sprays in each nostril, not to be taken 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, it is advised to consult a doctor before use.

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

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Cvs Health, 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 Cvs Health, 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.

Learn more in our Editorial Policy

Last AI update:

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.