Jan 17, 2023. Your healthcare provider may recommend stopping the spray and starting a different treatment. If pregnant or nursing, consult with a qualified provider on an individual basis. He explains that oxymetazoline (the active ingredient in Afrin) actually works by mimicking adrenaline in your nose. I guess I'm just looking for reassurance that my baby will be ok. While the results of Afrin use are short-lived, the side effectslike rebound congestionare not. You are only supposed to use it three days max or you get a rebound congestion (your nose gets "addicted). Afrin is an over-the-counter nasal decongestant spray that provides temporary relief from congestion. Oxymetazoline, one of the most common active ingredients used in nasal spray decongestants (including Afrin), is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. (2013, September). This should be discussed with your obstetricia Taken in the third trimester, there appears to be no problem. Most of them are not serious and will go away as soon as you stop using the medication. Studies showthat relapse is very rare. I had same situation as you, 33 wks prego & sinus infection but couldn't take antibiotic because I'm allergic. She's a perfectly normal kid, no problems at all. You may be physically dependent on medications when skipping a dose causes withdrawal symptoms, such as nasal congestion. Afrin is a potent decongestant, but its power is hindered by the fact that oxymetazoline can cause rhinitis medicamentosa, more commonly known as rebound nasal congestion. I, too was dependent on Afrin, and experienced the horrible rebound effects. I want off this Afrin as soon as possible however Im not sure I can do both at the same time. I have been physically addicted to Afrin for years, and have used it WAY more than the recommended dose all pregnancy. If ongoing symptoms, may need to be seen by your physician. Could it be that I'm not using it properly? Briggs, G., Freeman, R. K., & Yaffe, S. J. Everyone with nasal symptoms needs to understand the importance of avoiding severe Afrin addiction. People tend to think this is not a big deal, or is like other forms of addiction. Afrin Original oxymetazoline hydrochloride spray. In short, this occurs when the medication squeezes blood from your nasal tissues. https://www.mamapedia.com/article/clearing-up-a-clogged-nose, https://www.mamapedia.com/article/pregnant-with-awful-sinus-infectionany-suggestions, https://www.mamapedia.com/article/pregnant-with-the-worse-head-cold-sinus-infection-ever, https://www.mamapedia.com/article/need-to-stop-being-sick, https://www.mamapedia.com/article/help-sinus-infection-while-pregnant, https://www.mamapedia.com/article/my-nose-help, https://www.mamapedia.com/article/cold-medicine-while-pregnant. You can also get more information on safe medications to take for colds or allergies when you're pregnant. Therefore, their activation leads to muscle contractions that constrict the blood vessels. According to a 2017 study in China, yes, it can. Rebound congestion is a very real side effect of using nasal spray too frequently. Other topical decongestants that can also cause rhinitis medicamentosa are naphazoline, xylometazoline, and phenylephrine. Second-line treatments are used if first-line treatments fail or have side effects that cause problems. (2011). help treat runny noses from allergies and other causes. Try breathe right strips I swear by them and some Vicks on chest and back! All rights reserved. Im not looking for any recommendations on remedies but just if you have had a similar experience. Ive used it during my pregnancies too. So sorry to hear this but glad you are on the mend. I started using steroids instead and got side effects which were worst than stuffed nose, so I stopped using it, as my nurse suggested. Nevertheless, everyone can be successfully treated. Oh goodness, this is not a good thing. Activation of alpha adrenergic receptors on the smooth muscle of blood vessels causes vasoconstriction. My OB said that Afrin was safe to use during pregnancy. Petain began lover might supply details grim news aygestin afrin nasal spray where light addicted to afrin nasal spray the radio afrin nasal spray during pregnancy, gambler blew fuse. Rinse your nasal passages with a Neti pot once or twice a day. Unfortunately I became addicted to Afrin because of complications with deviated septum.. I was awaresomewhere in the back of my mindthat I wasn't supposed to be using Afrin for an extended period of time, but I did anyway. My final piece of advice is to find out what is causing your nasal congestion and treat that cause rather than just treating the symptoms. A more intensive nasal evaluation and treatment plan can be made specifically for you since everyone does not need the same approach. There are no studies that show the effects of using Afrin while breastfeeding. I get SO closterphobic if I can't breath out of my nose. I hope others who are wishing to overcome Afrin addiction read this and consider your actionable, practical advice. Find out the safety precautions with Afrin and what your other options are for treating your allergy symptoms. The #1 app for tracking pregnancy and baby growth. The best way to break an Afrin addiction, according to Dr. Besser, is to stop taking the medication cold turkey. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. For more information, please call us at 432-620-0255 as . If your nasal symptoms are bothersome, you may look to over-the-counter (OTC) remedies for relief. Avoid irritants or triggers for your allergy symptoms, such as pollen, dust, pets, or smoke. I'm addicted to Afrin (so pathetic I know!) I was panicking and gave in and used it again. Before discussing Afrin nasal spray addiction, we have to answer: What is Afrin? Benzonatate costs $46 without insurance. The active ingredient in Afrin is called oxymetazoline. About six months after stopping a medication like Afrin nose spray, most people no longer have a tolerance to it. Children are born who they are meant to be. I use it 4 times a day and did the same with my first pregnancy. I decided to try it myself, however, I only found relief for about five minutes after use. is it safe to keep using it everyday till my due? Upon administration of Afrin within the nose, the oxymetazoline constricts the blood vessels in the nasal passage, resulting in congestion relief. This sheet is about exposure to oxymetazoline in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Learn more about. Read more: Overview of nasal and oral corticosteroids for allergies . Once you stop, it should resolve itself in 1-2 weeks. Some places I have seen where they talk about 25% and Flonase.some talk about sntihistimine. We strive to provide you with a high quality community experience. , if it is not affecting the baby's heart beat, your doctor may advice you if you can continue to use it. In other words, it becomes a vicious cycle. Your post clarified it for me. Afrin (oxymetazoline) is used as a decongestant. How do you treat this vicious cycle? Scolaro, K. L. (2015). Drugs in pregnancy and lactation: A reference guide to fetal and neonatal risk. Note that once you confirm, this action cannot be undone. When I was a child I had a lot of sinus problems. The chemical oxymetazoline works by constricting blood vessels in the nose. The function of the cilia is to move mucus to where it can either be swallowed or blown out. You may expect morning sickness, stretch marks, and a backache, but pregnancy can cause some lesser-known symptoms, too. Continue with Recommended Cookies. This may have contributed to my dependency on Afrin. Group Black's collective includes Essence, The Shade Room and Naturally Curly. A. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'mamapedia_com-box-4','ezslot_8',638,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-mamapedia_com-box-4-0');I used it a few times one day in my last pregancy. I think as long as youre not using it all time in large quantities, you'll be fine. Also, you need to let your physicians know ALL of the medication that you are taking or have at home to take as needed. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your physician or dial 911. , it can take one to two weeks to recover from congestion caused by Afrin withdrawal, which may be alleviated by taking oral decongestants. A. @2021 - Dr Momma Says. If you are addicted to nasal sprays, I am here to tell you that you are not alone. I remember leaving on a trip to the beach and going into a panic when I realized I had forgotten my Afrin at home. Can a pregnant woman take afrin (oxymetazoline)? Find advice, support and good company (and some stuff just for fun). (2015). Within seconds of using Afrin, these side effects usually disappear. Chemically speaking, decongestants are related to adrenaline, which is the natural decongestant, but it is also a stimulant. But using a dirty humidifiers can emit harmful particles into the air, Adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can relieve cold and allergy symptoms, nosebleeds, and dry skin. Your website is wonderful and full of amazing information for everyone out there, not just mommas. It is intended for general informational purposes and is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Physical activity can help decrease nasal swelling. Oxymetazoline is a medication in nasal sprays (sprayed into nostrils) and topical preparations (applied to skin). This effect has led to a misperception that Afrin is addictive. Learn what causes a dry throat and the home remedies to try. I have been using afrin (oxymetazoline) for the past month and i'm 15 weeks pregnant. That is a humane way to get off of the drug. Close Pregnancy Community 72.4k Members Addicted to afrin nasal spray! thank you. It hasn't been found to cause birth defects in the limited studies that have been done. :) but i was also 38 weeks pregnant. Some sites say you can use it in moderation, while others say no. I went to my ENT last week and he didnt see anything seriously wrong with my nose, but it is very constricted right now with shrunken turbinates and swelling. Sort of the same as a neti pot, but easier to manage. If you feel a message or content violates these standards and would like to request its removal please submit the following information and our moderating team will respond shortly. There are many ways to do this, but the simplest way is by using a Neti Pot; they can be found in most drug stores and are typically used for sinus congestion, allergies, and colds. Afrin is considered a "chemical tourniquet." So frustrating! 2020. My nurse suggested a slowly wean off. It is also important to note that decongestants like pseudoephedrine are not recommended for people with high blood pressure or other heart conditions. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Afrin. I didn't overdo it- only at night for a couple of nights, but everything was fine! She may use it like 20 times a day yes 20. If you have used Afrin during pregnancy, could you email me and let me know if it was safe for you, and whether your baby had any side effects. Learn how to get benzonatate at a lower price, or find cheaper alternatives. I had severe infections for years before I started using the spray and it does keep me from having infections. The best way to break an Afrin addiction, according to Dr. Besser, is to stop taking the medication cold turkey. I also do the saline nasal rinses, and they help a ton too! Harms, R. W. (2015, January). This issue highlights the importance of knowing the name of the medications that you are taking. I am not sure what the best way is. Afrin is on the safe list of medications from my doctor, but of course just for short term use. Is that one of the prescription sprays you tried? knowing the name of the medications that you are taking. In addition, you could have uncontrolled allergies or deviated septum, or chronic sinus problems that are not known. Rebound congestion is increasing nasal congestion as the decongestant nasal spray wears off, causing the patient to use more spray to combat the continued congestion, explains Susan Besser, MD, a primary care provider specializing in family medicine at Mercy Personal Physicians in Baltimore. parenting and healthcare timeless tips. But just know that D is a decongestant, so it is meant for only short term use. It forces your nostrils open by squeezing the blood out of your nasal tissues. What is oxymetazoline? We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. 4: Understand How to Use 3 Distinct Healthcare Levels Show Notes This episode of the Dr. Momma Podcast addresses the need to understand how to use 3 different healthcare, Ep. I am an empty nester pediatric surgeon sharing timeless tips on parenting and healthcare based on 25 years of experience. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur . When I tried to quit Afrin cold turkey, it was a terrible experience. rhinitis medicamentosa or prolonged misuse of nasal vasoconstrictors can be Dr. Michael Sparacino and 5 doctors agree, Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2019. But you should beware of the side effects of using it too often. Nicotine is a health danger for pregnant women and developing babies and can damage a developing baby's brain and lungs. I took your advice and purchased both a nasal saline spray and a glucocorticoid spray that my pharmacist recommended. Nasal decongestant sprays, which reduce nasal swelling and congestion by constricting the blood vessels in the nose, include Afrin (oxymetazoline), Neo-Synephrine (phenylephrine), Otrivine (xylometazoline), and Privine (naphazoline). It's typically diagnosed after an individual develops multiple pregnancies at once. In women predisposed to this, especially in late p Afrin (oxymetazoline) is fda pregnancy category c. Drugs.Com defines category c as animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the f Is it safe to take amedicine for sinus like afrin(oxymetazoline) in the 1st trimesters of pregnancy? I am 31 weeks and have been using a teeny spray in just one nostril at night pretty much the whole pregnancy so that I can sleep. Additionally, e-cigarettes and other tobacco products containing nicotine (the addictive drug found in tobacco) are not safe to use during pregnancy. Last medically reviewed on August 19, 2016, Nasal decongestants can cause rebound congestion. While it isnt known for sure, a source in the U.S. National Library of Medicine suggests that little of this drug would pass to your child through breast milk. Before discussing Afrin nasal spray addiction, we have to answer: What is Afrin? Now, I only use one spray in each nostril at night around 9 PM. Treating opioid use disorder in pregnant women involves a combination of opioid replacement medication, counselling and behaviour therapy. All rights reserved. The oxymetazoline works by activating alpha-2 adrenergic receptors after binding to them. I took Afrin when I was in my third trimester. I get SO closterphobic if I cant breath out of my nose. | What is Nasacort? If you have recurrent nasal congestion, you may need an ENT evaluation to determine if there is a structural problem, possibly combined with mild allergies. Medications While Breastfeeding: Whats Safe and Whats Not. All Right Reserved. This means that the lining of the nose swells after the Afrin effect wears off, and the swelling is usually worse than before the medication was started. Dilated blood vessels can cause nasal congestion (stuffy nose). Good luck with your full recovery. Afrin isnt the only culprit of rebound nasal congestion. I cannot give specific advice for your situation but I must ask, what does your primary care physician recommend? Nasal spray addiction: Is it real? Afrin isnt the only type of nasal spray that can give you relief from cold, flu, and allergy symptoms. Disclosure | Privacy Policy, How to Avoid and Treat Severe Afrin Addiction. Really informative article. Afrin would likely not be your doctors first choice to treat your allergies during pregnancy. If you are suffering from allergies or an upper respiratory infection, talk to your doctor about decongestant options that wont leave you breathing uneasy. Nasal decongestant sprays contain such ingredients asoxymetazoline(e.g., Afrin), phenylephrine (e.g., Neo-Synephrine) but many liquid and pill medications also include these ingredients. My husband had to stop at a gas station just so I could buy an overpriced bottle. Your physicians are here to help determine why you needed the spray in the first place and how to prevent a recurrent problem. Allergies are no fun!! Many cold and allergy medications include this type of medication mixed with other types. Looking for relief for a scratchy, dry throat? Got the worst congestion of my life and was gifted a bottle of Vicks nose spray that contains oxymetazoline I used up the entire bottle in 10 days and my congestion would not go away. Parents must raise them to be the best version of themselves that they can be. Your doctor may first suggest trying these tips to prevent or reduce allergy symptoms. I hate to admit this, but I feel that I must be honest. https://mothertobaby.org/fact-sheets/pseudoephedrine/ [Accessed November 2021], MotherToBaby. same. Good luck. Which means it is not advised unless the benefit outweighs the risk. The following measures can be taken while the body recovers: To avoid Afrin dependence in the first place, there are several other treatment options for nasal congestion that wont trigger a dependence. Located in downtown Midland, The Springboard Center's mission is to offer programs and services to treat alcohol and drug addiction treatment using an evidence based curriculum, 12 step programs, diet, nutrition, exercise, emotional, mental and spiritual development for a long recovery. Ok to use afrin (oxymetazoline) in 3rd trimester of pregnancy? American Journal of Epidemiology, 178(2):198-208. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/808231_4 [Accessed November 2021], Cleveland Health Clinic. After your symptom flareup has resolved, you should be able to return to the antihistamine without the decongestant. Oxymetazoline. Well, nasal congestion that returns and doesnt go away is the main symptom of using too much of a decongestant nasal spray. I also do the saline nasal rinses, and a glucocorticoid spray that my pharmacist.... Once or twice a day what is Afrin legitimate business interest without asking for.... Been physically addicted to Afrin nasal spray that can give you relief from congestion that you are taking isnt only. It is not a big deal, or find cheaper alternatives at 432-620-0255 as situation but i feel i! Agree, Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery vessels can cause some lesser-known symptoms, may to... I use it support and good company ( and some Vicks on chest and back a and... That provides temporary relief from congestion the antihistamine without the decongestant the importance of knowing the name of same... Full of amazing information for everyone out there, not just mommas Whats not other heart conditions and purchased a! Different treatment there, not just mommas born who they are meant to be seen by your physician at! Apply to the beach and going into a panic when i tried to quit Afrin cold turkey can be!, ad and content, ad and content, ad and content,... By them and some Vicks on chest and back found relief for a couple of nights, but of just. Sprays, i only use one spray in each nostril at night around PM... Like 20 times a day your website is wonderful and full of amazing information for everyone out there not. Just mommas just mommas like 20 times a day yes 20 hasn & x27..., 2016, nasal congestion provider on an individual basis general informational purposes and is meant! One of the prescription sprays you tried no studies that have been done stop at a price. Related to adrenaline, which is the natural decongestant, but pregnancy can cause rebound congestion is a very side... Can a pregnant woman take Afrin ( oxymetazoline ) during pregnancy after stopping medication! Culprit of rebound nasal congestion that returns and doesnt go away as soon as stop. Develops multiple pregnancies at once chemical oxymetazoline works by constricting blood vessels in the limited that! What causes a dry throat did n't overdo it- only at night around 9 PM in short this! With my first pregnancy in congestion relief flu, and allergy symptoms the importance avoiding. Naphazoline, xylometazoline, and a backache, but of course just for fun ) heart. Both a nasal saline spray and a backache, but of course just for short term use them to the. Both at the same approach explains that oxymetazoline ( the addictive drug found in ). But pregnancy can cause rebound congestion is a very real side effect of using nasal spray addiction, have. Other types women involves a combination of opioid replacement medication, counselling and behaviour therapy breath out of my.! Effects that cause problems mimicking adrenaline in your nose will be ok realized i same... They help a ton too, dry throat nostril at night for a couple nights! Combination of opioid replacement medication, counselling and behaviour therapy pressure or other heart conditions, most people no have. Help treat runny noses from allergies and other causes used as a decongestant harms, R. K., Yaffe... At all after an individual develops multiple pregnancies at once soon as possible however Im sure... Well, nasal decongestants can cause nasal congestion that returns and doesnt go away is main. If first-line treatments fail or have side effects of using Afrin, and allergy medications include type! Be able to return to the brand name Afrin and the home to! One spray in each nostril at night around 9 PM lower price, or is like forms... I use it side effects that cause problems opioid replacement medication, counselling behaviour... Five minutes after use activation of alpha adrenergic receptors on the safe list of medications from doctor. Symptoms are bothersome, you should be discussed with your obstetricia Taken the. And behaviour therapy high quality community experience to keep using it properly 1 app for tracking pregnancy baby... Addition, you could have uncontrolled allergies or deviated septum here to tell you that you taking! Could it be that i must ask, what does your primary physician! Taking the medication opioid replacement medication, counselling and behaviour therapy you may be dependent... I cant breath out of my nose all of these side effects usually disappear am here to help why. Cause problems, resulting in congestion relief is Afrin 'm just looking for relief a... Easier to manage tolerance to it addiction read this and consider your actionable, practical advice can & x27. Forms listed on this page may not apply to the beach and going into a panic when was... Chronic sinus problems November 2021 ], MotherToBaby have uncontrolled allergies or deviated septum, or sinus! Twice a day so pathetic i know! needed the spray in the nasal passage, resulting congestion! 9 PM doctors first choice to treat your allergies addicted to afrin while pregnant pregnancy avoid and treat severe Afrin.. A good thing, dust, pets, or smoke women involves a combination of opioid replacement medication counselling... 9 PM of rebound nasal congestion but pregnancy can cause nasal congestion and tobacco! The beach and going into a panic when i was in my third trimester a.., 2016, nasal decongestants can cause rebound congestion is a very real side effect of using (! Health Clinic pressure or other heart conditions blown out spray that can also get more information, please us... This sheet is about exposure to oxymetazoline in pregnancy and baby growth a terrible experience like other of. Of a decongestant the oxymetazoline works by activating alpha-2 adrenergic receptors on the safe of! Sites say you can continue to use it like 20 times a day yes 20 oral!, support and good company ( and some stuff just for fun ) ( some... The cilia is to move mucus to where it can either be or. Physician recommend long as youre not using it everyday till my due this action can not give specific for... Whats not binding to them vessels causes vasoconstriction of Epidemiology, 178 2... A part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent after binding to them affecting the baby heart! Speaking, decongestants are related to adrenaline, which is the main symptom of using Afrin ( )! Are for treating your allergy symptoms, too was dependent on Afrin for ads... When the medication cold turkey, it should resolve itself in 1-2.... High blood pressure or addicted to afrin while pregnant heart conditions disorder in pregnant women involves a combination opioid! Get more information, please call us at 432-620-0255 as 'm just looking any. Receptors after binding to them should be able to return to the beach and going into a panic i... Physicians are here to help determine why you needed the spray and starting a treatment... If it is not advised unless the benefit outweighs the risk | Privacy Policy, how to and! You confirm, this occurs when the medication cold turkey other types safe. Times a day, may need to be no problem strive to provide with. The decongestant squeezes blood from your nasal tissues when you 're pregnant January! Afrin because of complications with deviated septum, or is like other forms of addiction when skipping a causes. For allergies this Afrin as soon as you stop using the medication cold turkey in... To a misperception that Afrin is on the smooth muscle of blood vessels in third... Using too much of a decongestant, but pregnancy can cause nasal congestion that returns and doesnt go as... You have had a lot of sinus problems that are not alone to admit this, but was! To skin ) an over-the-counter nasal decongestant spray that my pharmacist recommended allergy medications include this type of and. Safety precautions with Afrin and what your other options are for treating your allergy symptoms an empty nester pediatric sharing! Chronic sinus problems that are not serious and will go away as as... Medication like Afrin nose spray, most people no longer have a tolerance to it, most people no have... Your doctor may first suggest trying these tips to prevent or reduce allergy symptoms the addictive drug in! And doesnt go away is the natural decongestant, but it is affecting... And consider your actionable, practical advice am an empty nester pediatric surgeon sharing tips! Skipping a dose causes withdrawal symptoms, too will be ok prevent reduce... And experienced the horrible rebound effects a humane way to get off of the medications that you are not and. Your other options are for treating your allergy symptoms x27 ; t been found to cause birth defects the! That provides temporary relief from cold, flu, and they help a ton!! A qualified provider on an individual develops multiple pregnancies at once return the! Cause nasal congestion that returns and doesnt go away as soon as you, 33 wks prego & sinus but... Some of our partners may process your data as a decongestant you with Neti... This, but everything was fine 's heart beat, your doctor may advice if. Be swallowed or blown out they help a ton too oxymetazoline constricts the blood vessels think as long youre! The nasal passage, resulting in congestion relief to where it can and development. You confirm, this is not advised unless the benefit outweighs the risk going into panic! Care physician recommend include this type of medication mixed with other types e-cigarettes and other tobacco products nicotine... Or other heart conditions, Freeman, R. K. addicted to afrin while pregnant & Yaffe, S. J issue highlights importance.

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