Otrivin

Nasal spray/drops · Haleon
USUALLY SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Otrivin is a nasal spray/drops made by Haleon that contains Xylometazoline 0.1% (adult). Xylometazoline is a nasal decongestant spray: quickly clears a blocked nose from cold or sinusitis.

Ingredient (salt)Amount
Xylometazoline0.1% (adult)

What it is used for

Quickly clears a blocked nose from cold or sinusitis.

How it works

A nasal spray or drop that narrows blood vessels in the nose lining, relieving a blocked nose within minutes for up to 10 hours.

How to take it

Adults: 1 spray or 2 to 3 drops in each nostril up to 3 times a day. Use for no more than 5 to 7 days, or the blockage comes back worse (rebound congestion).

Common side effects

  • Stinging or dryness in the nose
  • Sneezing
  • Headache

Get medical help straight away if

  • Blocked nose gets worse after stopping (rebound)
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat

Be careful

Do not use for more than 5 to 7 days or the blockage can get worse (rebound).

Other medicines and interactions

Avoid with MAOI antidepressants. Children's strength is different; do not use adult sprays on children under 12.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Avoid in pregnancy if possible and use saline instead; ask a pharmacist about breastfeeding.

Common questions

What is Otrivin?

Otrivin is a nasal spray/drops by Haleon containing Xylometazoline 0.1% (adult).

What is Otrivin used for?

Quickly clears a blocked nose from cold or sinusitis.

How should I take Otrivin?

Adults: 1 spray or 2 to 3 drops in each nostril up to 3 times a day. Use for no more than 5 to 7 days, or the blockage comes back worse (rebound congestion). Always follow the dose your doctor or the pack gives.

What are the side effects of Otrivin?

Common side effects include: Stinging or dryness in the nose, sneezing, headache. Get medical help straight away for: Blocked nose gets worse after stopping (rebound), fast or irregular heartbeat.

Does Otrivin need a prescription?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Can I take Otrivin in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Avoid in pregnancy if possible and use saline instead; ask a pharmacist about breastfeeding.

What are the substitutes for Otrivin?

We have no other brand with exactly the same composition and strength in our list yet. Ask your pharmacist for an equivalent.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Composition checked against pack details from large Indian online pharmacies. Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.