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Quality Choice

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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)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2018
Label revision date
December 4, 2025
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
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2018
Label revision date
December 4, 2025
Manufacturer
CHAIN DRUG MARKETING ASSOCIATION
Registration number
M012
NDC root
63868-698

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Drug Overview

Oxymetazoline HCl 0.05% is a nasal spray that acts as a powerful nasal decongestant. It is designed to provide fast relief from nasal congestion caused by the common cold, hay fever, or other upper respiratory allergies. This medication works by temporarily shrinking swollen nasal membranes, allowing you to breathe more freely and alleviating sinus congestion and pressure.

With a maximum strength formula, Oxymetazoline offers up to 12 hours of relief, making it a convenient option for those seeking to ease their symptoms from colds and allergies.

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, making it easier for you to breathe. Additionally, it can relieve sinus congestion and pressure, helping you feel more comfortable.

Dosage and Administration

When using this nasal spray, adults and children aged 6 to under 12 years should spray 2 or 3 times in each nostril, but only 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.

To apply the spray, hold the bottle upright and squeeze it quickly and firmly. Make sure not to tilt your head back while spraying. After using the spray, wipe the nozzle clean and securely replace the cap to keep it safe for the next use.

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, as prolonged use can lead to a worsening of nasal congestion. Always follow the directions provided and avoid using more than the recommended amount. Additionally, sharing this medication with others can increase the risk of spreading infections, so it's best to keep it for your personal use only.

Side Effects

If you experience any persistent symptoms while using this medication, it's important to stop use and consult your doctor. Additionally, you should talk to your doctor before using this medication if you have any of the following conditions: heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disease, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland.

Being aware of these factors can help ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider regarding your health conditions.

Warnings and Precautions

If you accidentally swallow this medication, it’s important to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Your safety is a priority, so don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance.

You should also stop using this medication and consult your doctor if your symptoms continue. It’s essential to keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider to ensure your well-being.

Overdose

It appears that there is no specific information available regarding overdosage for this medication. However, it's always important to be aware of the signs of an overdose, which can include symptoms like extreme drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect an overdose, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical help.

In case of an emergency, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest hospital. Always keep medications out of reach of children and follow the prescribed dosage to prevent any potential risks. If you have any concerns or questions about your medication, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

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

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there is no specific information available about dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. This means that if you or a loved one is an older adult considering this medication, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that your medication dosage may need to be adjusted. This is because your renal function, which refers to how well your kidneys are working, can affect how your body processes certain medications. Regular monitoring of your renal function is essential, and this typically involves tests that measure creatinine clearance (a way to assess kidney function).

Before starting any new therapy, your healthcare provider will likely perform these renal function tests and continue to check your kidney health periodically. If you have severe renal impairment, special care will be taken to ensure your treatment is safe and effective. Always discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure you receive the best care tailored to your needs.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that your condition may affect how your body processes certain medications. This means that the dosage of the drug you are prescribed might need to be adjusted to ensure it is safe and effective for you.

Additionally, your healthcare provider will likely monitor your liver function tests (which check how well your liver is working) if you have pre-existing liver conditions. Special precautions will be taken when administering the drug to ensure your safety and well-being. Always discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure the best care for your situation.

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 and safety of your product, it is important to store it at room temperature. This means keeping it in a place that is not too hot or too cold, typically between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C).

When handling the product, make sure to do so with clean hands and in a clean environment to maintain its integrity. Always follow any specific instructions provided with the product for safe use and disposal. By taking these simple steps, you can help ensure that the product remains effective and safe for your needs.

Additional Information

You can use this medication nasally. For adults and children aged 6 to under 12 years (with adult supervision), the recommended dose 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, you should consult a doctor for guidance.

FAQ

What is Oxymetazoline HCl 0.05% used for?

Oxymetazoline HCl 0.05% is a nasal spray that temporarily relieves nasal congestion due to the common cold, hay fever, or other upper respiratory allergies.

How should I use Oxymetazoline nasal spray?

For adults and children aged 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.

Are there any side effects of using this nasal spray?

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

Can I use Oxymetazoline nasal spray if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should ask a health professional before using this product.

What should I do if I accidentally swallow the nasal spray?

If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

How should I store Oxymetazoline nasal spray?

Store the nasal spray at room temperature.

What precautions should I take before using this nasal spray?

Ask a doctor before use if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disease, or trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland.

How long can I use Oxymetazoline nasal spray?

Do not use the nasal spray for more than 3 days, as frequent or prolonged use may worsen nasal congestion.

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Quality Choice.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

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

View product document (PDF)

Description

Oxymetazoline HCl 0.05% is the active ingredient in the nasal spray. The dosage form is a nasal spray, with a strength of 0.05%, which is equivalent to 0.5 mg/mL.

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 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

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 a 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. After use, the nozzle should be wiped clean, and the cap should be securely replaced.

Contraindications

Use is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Use is not recommended for more than 3 days. Prolonged or frequent use may lead to a recurrence or worsening of nasal congestion.

  • The product should not be used by more than one person, as this may facilitate the spread of infection.

Warnings and Precautions

In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought. Healthcare professionals are advised to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.

Patients should be closely monitored for symptom persistence. If symptoms continue despite treatment, it is imperative to discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware of the potential adverse reactions associated with the use of this medication. In the event that symptoms persist, it is advised to stop use and consult a healthcare professional.

Before initiating treatment, patients with certain pre-existing conditions should seek medical advice. Specifically, individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disease, or those experiencing difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland should consult a doctor prior to use. This precaution is essential to ensure the safe and effective use of the medication.

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 Quality Choice (oxymetazoline hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Quality Choice.
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 for this age group 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.

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 individuals.

Renal Impairment

Renal impairment may necessitate dosage adjustments for patients with reduced kidney function. It is essential for healthcare professionals to monitor renal function regularly in these patients. Dosage adjustments should be based on creatinine clearance levels, with special consideration given to those with severe renal impairment. Renal function tests are recommended prior to initiating therapy and should be performed periodically thereafter to ensure appropriate management of the patient's condition.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment may experience altered metabolism of the drug, necessitating dosage adjustments. It is essential to monitor liver function tests in individuals with pre-existing liver conditions to ensure safety and efficacy. Special precautions should be taken when administering the drug to this population, as compromised liver function may influence therapeutic outcomes and increase the risk of adverse effects.

Overdosage

In the absence of specific overdosage information, it is essential for healthcare professionals to remain vigilant and prepared for potential scenarios involving overdose.

Healthcare providers should be aware that the clinical presentation of an overdose may vary depending on the substance involved and the individual patient’s characteristics. Symptoms of overdose can range from mild to severe and may include alterations in consciousness, respiratory distress, cardiovascular instability, and gastrointestinal disturbances.

In the event of suspected overdosage, immediate medical evaluation is recommended. Healthcare professionals should assess the patient's vital signs and perform a thorough clinical examination. Supportive care should be initiated as necessary, which may include airway management, intravenous fluids, and monitoring of vital parameters.

If specific antidotes or treatments are available for the substance involved, they should be administered according to established protocols. Consultation with a poison control center or toxicology expert may also be warranted to guide management decisions.

It is crucial for healthcare professionals to document all findings and interventions thoroughly and to report any adverse events related to overdosage to the appropriate regulatory authorities.

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 relevant information is available regarding carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, or impairment of fertility. Additionally, there is no pertinent data provided from animal pharmacology and toxicology studies.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified several adverse reactions associated with the use of the product. Temporary discomfort, including symptoms such as burning, stinging, sneezing, or an increase in nasal discharge, has been reported. Additionally, frequent or prolonged use of the product may lead to a recurrence or worsening of nasal congestion.

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 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, inform patients that the use of this container by more than one person 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, diabetes, thyroid disease, 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 room temperature to maintain its efficacy and integrity. No special handling requirements are necessary beyond standard storage practices.

Additional Clinical Information

The route of administration for the medication is nasal. For adults and children aged 6 to under 12 years, it is recommended to administer 2 or 3 sprays in each nostril, not more frequently than every 10 to 12 hours, with a maximum of 2 doses in any 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 Quality Choice, 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 Quality Choice, 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.