Oxymetazoline

Nasal decongestant spray
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Oxymetazoline is a nasal decongestant spray found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Nasivion. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Quickly clears a blocked nose from cold or sinusitis.

How it works

A long-acting decongestant nasal spray that shrinks swollen blood vessels in the nose for up to 12 hours.

How to take it

Adults: 1 to 2 sprays in each nostril twice a day, for no more than 3 to 5 days. Use the paediatric strength for children.

Common side effects

  • Burning or dryness inside the nose
  • Sneezing

Get medical help straight away if

  • Rebound congestion that will not clear
  • Palpitations

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.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Use only if needed and for the shortest time in pregnancy; ask a pharmacist.

Brands of Oxymetazoline (1)

Nasivion

Common questions

What is Oxymetazoline used for?

Quickly clears a blocked nose from cold or sinusitis.

How does Oxymetazoline work?

A long-acting decongestant nasal spray that shrinks swollen blood vessels in the nose for up to 12 hours.

How should I take Oxymetazoline?

Adults: 1 to 2 sprays in each nostril twice a day, for no more than 3 to 5 days. Use the paediatric strength for children.

What are the side effects of Oxymetazoline?

Common: Burning or dryness inside the nose, sneezing. Get help straight away for: Rebound congestion that will not clear, palpitations.

Does Oxymetazoline interact with other medicines?

Avoid with MAOI antidepressants.

Is Oxymetazoline safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Use only if needed and for the shortest time in pregnancy; ask a pharmacist.

Does Oxymetazoline need a prescription in India?

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

Which brands contain Oxymetazoline?

Nasivion.

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.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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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.