To properly distribute the gel-mist across your nasal linings without irritating your inner nasal septum, follow this application sequence.

1.Blow Your Nose Smoothly:Clear the Passages.
Gently blow your nose to clear your nostrils of thick mucus before applying the spray. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, then remove the protective plastic cap from the bottle nozzle.

2.Shake and Prime the Pump:Activate the Gel Base.
Shake the bottle vigorously for 3 seconds to mix the aromatic no-drip gel. Before using it for the first time, point the nozzle away from your face and squeeze the pump firmly 2 to 3 times until a consistent, fine mist shoots into the air.

3.Position the Tip Correctly:The.
Hold the bottle upright. Close one nostril gently with your finger. Insert the spray nozzle tip into your open nostril. Tilt the nozzle tip slightly outward toward the outer corner of your eye or ear, pointing away from the center cartilage (septum). Pointing directly at the septum can cause raw tissue bleeding.

4.Squeeze and Sniff Lightly:Gently Inhale.
Squeeze the pump firmly down in one smooth stroke while simultaneously sniffing inward gently through your nose. Do not sniff violently, as this pulls the gel-mist straight down into your throat instead of letting it coat your nasal passages. Repeat the process in your other nostril.

5.Wipe Clean and Store:2 Doses Daily Max.
Wipe the plastic nozzle clean with a tissue and replace the cap securely. The standard adult dose is 2 to 3 sprays into each nostril twice daily (every 10 to 12 hours). Never exceed 2 doses within any 24-hour window, and stop completely after 3 days.

Contraindications

• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI) Therapy: Do NOT use Afrin if you are currently taking an MAOI antidepressant or have taken one within the last 14 days. This combination can trigger a sudden, dangerous spike in blood pressure.
• Narrow-Angle Glaucoma: Contraindicated if you manage narrow-angle glaucoma, as systemic absorption can rarely increase pressure inside the eyes.
• Post-Neurosurgery: Do not use if you have recently undergone a trans-sphenoidal hypophysectomy or any skull-base surgical procedure.
• Age Restrictions: This maximum strength formula is not suitable for children under 6 years of age. For children between 6 and 12 years, use only under strict adult supervision.

Side Effects

• Common: A brief, temporary stinging or burning sensation inside the nose, sneezing, a dry throat, or localized nasal dryness.
• Rare: Heart palpitations, an increased pulse rate, a mild headache, or light dizziness if systemic absorption happens.
• Action: Minor stinging is a normal local response. However, if you experience unexpected dizziness or a rapid, racing heartbeat, stop using the spray and rinse your nostrils with cool water.

Precautions and Warnings

• THE 3-DAY MAXIMUM ABSOLUTE BOUNDARY: Do NOT use Afrin Severe Congestion for more than 3 consecutive days.

Why this rule is critical: If used continuously for more than 72 hours, the blood vessels in your nose become dependent on the chemical to stay constricted. When the medicine wears off, the vessels bounce back and swell significantly worse than before. This results in chronic, severe congestion known as rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa), which can cause permanent damage to your nasal lining and require advanced medical treatment to break.

• Cardiovascular & Chronic Disease Checks: Consult your doctor before starting if you manage high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism), or diabetes.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Due to its active blood-vessel constricting properties, pregnant or breastfeeding mothers must avoid self-medicating with Afrin unless it is explicitly reviewed and approved by their obstetrician.

Form: Topical No-Drip Aromatic Nasal Gel-Mist Pump Spray.

Active Component Concentration: Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride 0.05% w/v.

Aromatic Additives: Menthol, Camphor, Eucalyptus.

Volume: 15 ml metered spray bottle.