Afrin is a medication used for temporary relief of congestion in the nose caused by various conditions including the common cold, sinusitis, hay fever, and allergies. It works by narrowing the blood vessels in the nose area, reducing swelling and congestion. Afrin is available in both nasal spray and mist formulations, and can be used to treat nasal and sinus congestion associated with allergies and upper respiratory infections. The active ingredient in Afrin is oxymetazoline, which is a vasoconstricting agent that causes temporary improvement in nasal swelling and congestion.

To use Afrin nasal drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your nose or any other surface. If needed, have another person place the drops in your nose. To use Afrin nasal spray, use this medication in the nose as directed. Follow all directions on the product package, or use as directed by your doctor. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

It is important to note that Afrin should not be used for more than three days. Frequent or prolonged use may cause nasal congestion to recur or worsen. Afrin addiction is known as rhinitis medicamentosa or rebound congestion. It occurs after repeated use of Afrin and can cause individuals to use the nasal spray on an increasing basis to treat the recurrent symptoms. Prolonged or repeated use of Afrin can alter the balance of chemicals within the body, resulting in blood vessel expansion and worsening nasal congestion when Afrin is discontinued after long-term use.