Some people choose decongestants on purpose while others do not realize they are using them. Parents must raise them to be the best version of themselves that they can be. Pseudoephedrine Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Warnings. Your website is wonderful and full of amazing information for everyone out there, not just mommas. However, like many drugs, Afrin comes with unique considerations during pregnancy and breastfeeding. 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. The oxymetazoline works by activating alpha-2 adrenergic receptors after binding to them. 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. The active ingredient in Afrin is called oxymetazoline. I would like to say thank you for this article. Phenylephrine. However, there is no proof that Afrin causes chemical dependency or that it causes a high. I never had any issues with allergies or congestion.. but on some night my nose would clog up and I started using a walmart brand of nasal decongestant.. needless to say I got hooked and started to use this product Every Night! Even so, you should talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks before using this medication while breastfeeding. If you use it once, your body will become dependent on it, they say. Oxymetazoline, one of the most common active ingredients used in nasal spray decongestants (including Afrin), is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. Kandis Lake is a registered nurse, health writer, and mom of three kids. thank you. Healthcare has become much more complex with many of us getting care at a variety of urgent care centers because they are convenient. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. It reduces the active ingredient as you work through a bottle of it, that you delete at various stages with saline they provide. Or anyone out there thats used afrin while pregnant and had a healthy baby! I combined this kit with a prescription from my doctor for prednisone that I took in decreasing amounts for a week. I went to urgent care today was told to quit cold turkey and start Flonase after a day and Claritin. Continue with Recommended Cookies. However, it is a proven natural alternative to nasal decongestants that has worked for others. Is that one of the prescription sprays you tried? 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. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Afrin can cause side effects. It is always better to find a long term treatment such as flonase or saline washess instead of emergent Afrin use. 1997-2023 BabyCenter, LLC, a Ziff Davis company. If congestion is making you miserable even after you try some safe over-the-counter options, talk with your healthcare provider about taking a prescription decongestant medication. Is afrin (oxymetazoline) safe in pregnancy? 2020. 16: Everything (most things) You Need to Know about Sinus Cavities Show Notes I believe everyone has heard about facial sinus cavities and that a sinus infection can happen., Ep 6: Motivate and Empower Kids by Teaching Physical Fitness Early Show Notes This episode of the Dr. Momma Podcast discusses how it is important for parents to motivate and, Ep. Children are born who they are meant to be. Ok to use afrin (oxymetazoline) in 3rd trimester of pregnancy? If you have more questions about using Afrin during pregnancy or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor. m msorsby I have had terrible pregnancy rhinitis this entire pregnancy. It forces your nostrils open by squeezing the blood out of your nasal tissues. If you use it once, your body will become dependent on it, they say. Im battling what I believe is a cold and I have severe congestion. There may be interactions or consequences that happen when medications are mixed together. Afrin (oxymetazoline) contains a vasoconstrictor, which is to say that it constricts blood vessels. Nicotine is a health danger for pregnant women and developing babies and can damage a developing baby's brain and lungs. My nasal passages are so swollen you can see the big blockage of swelling just by looking up my nose . This may have contributed to my dependency on Afrin. Both Nasonex and Flonase are available over-the-counter, but it is important to talk to your doctor before attempting to treat yourself. I was interested that you weened off diluting the Afrin active ingredient with saline. When you spray a shot of Afrin nasal spray into your nose, you will feel immediate relief from congestionbut the effects dont last. Afrin is an OTC decongestant nasal spray. I will be adding many more posts to highlight parenting and healthcare tips, so be sure to consider subscribing to my podcast or to my blogto avoid missing a post! Yep, every night. Other topical decongestants that can also cause rhinitis medicamentosa are naphazoline, xylometazoline, and phenylephrine. So I bought off brand afrin and only then did I read the back after using it for 3 days straight and find out what was really going on now . Even though the box advertises 12 hours of relief, the effects of oxymetazoline only up to about seven hours. As mentioned above, it may take up to two weeks to feel the effects. This issue highlights the importance of knowing the name of the medications that you are taking. Benzonatate costs $46 without insurance. Canada Family Physician, 54(5): 687-689, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2377219/ [Accessed November 2021], Mayo Clinic. But two ingredients sometimes found in nasal sprays - pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine . Can you give me how to dilute the Afrin with what in order to wean myself off. Im addicted to Afrin (so pathetic I know!) To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. 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. They obviously never tried that. I am currently 33 weeks pregnant and just getting over a terrible case of bronchitis and pink eye, and recently was told now I have a sinus infection. Oxymetazoline. However, not all humidifiers are the. This speeds up the process of mucus removal normally done by cilia, or small hairs, in the passageways. HealthTap uses cookies to enhance your site experience and for analytics and advertising purposes. I'm pregnant in 10 weeks can i take afrin nasal spray ? It is also important to note that decongestants like pseudoephedrine are not recommended for people with high blood pressure or other heart conditions. 13: Surprising Allergy Symptoms You Might Not Suspect Show Notes Todays episode of the Dr. Momma Says Podcast discusses that even though allergies are common, there are many surprising. So, how do you know if youre addicted? These sprays will help unblock your nose when you suffer from allergy-induced nasal congestion or have a cold. DailyMed. Get prescriptions or refills through a video chat, if the doctor feels the prescriptions are medically appropriate. Never take it again for life? I am an empty nester pediatric surgeon sharing timeless tips on parenting and healthcare based on 25 years of experience. The. You may be physically dependent on medications when skipping a dose causes withdrawal symptoms, such as nasal congestion. The problem can go on for months to years. You can avoid getting stuck using nasal sprays by treating your problem correctly the first time around. Aa. There are, work by decreasing inflammation to improve symptoms like nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. So happy to hear this! Have you tried nasal rinses? I have been physically addicted to Afrin for years, and have used it WAY more than the recommended dose all pregnancy. (2015). The main issue is how you decide to stop using nasal sprays. But I've read so many things I don't know anymore . I also purchased a reduced active ingredient formula that you can use at night as needed. Nevertheless, everyone can be successfully treated. The chemical oxymetazoline works by constricting blood vessels in the nose. 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. Find advice, support and good company (and some stuff just for fun). Adding these items to your diet when youre sick could help you get rid of phlegm, If youre using Afrin for seasonal allergies or an upper respiratory infection, your friends may warn you about the dangers of, addiction. Avoid irritants or triggers for your allergy symptoms, such as pollen, dust, pets, or smoke. I could not sleep well at all. Treating opioid use disorder in pregnant women involves a combination of opioid replacement medication, counselling and behaviour therapy. What was wrong with me? I am a big fan of understanding WHY medication is needed and then treating the underlying problem. I remember my mom would give nose drops to my brother and me every night, and it was just part of our bedtime ritual: nose drops, some Vicks Vapor Rub, a prayer, and good night. 2021. I couldn't talk right, and I felt as if some monster was sitting on my face, ruining my life. If you are unsure what medications are decongestants, look at the medication list on the label and see what is included. 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. But you should beware of the side effects of using it too often. Your post clarified it for me. , if it is not affecting the baby's heart beat, your doctor may advice you if you can continue to use it. @2021 - Dr Momma Says. Though Afrin has a market share of about 30 percent now, other similar products include Dristan, Sinex and Neo-synephrine. Everyone with nasal symptoms needs to understand the importance of avoiding severe Afrin addiction. NeilMed makes a great one that looks like of like a squirt bottle, I even use their pediatric one on my boys. A. Hemstreet, et al, eds. eta: my midwives said it was fine as well. As a baby boomer, I share If you're suffering from a cold or allergies during pregnancy, nasal sprays are most likely safe to use. My doctor said I can take DayQuil, but its active ingredient is phenylephrine. Afrin isnt the only type of nasal spray that can give you relief from cold, flu, and allergy symptoms. I couldn't leave home without it; I always had to have some in my purse. Common side effects of Afrin include: 4 Nose dryness and irritation Sneezing Dizziness High blood pressure Fast heart rate Heart palpitations Restlessness Trouble falling or staying asleep Serious Reactions to Afrin If youre using Afrin for seasonal allergies or an upper respiratory infection, your friends may warn you about the dangers of Afrin addiction. Inner ear infections can be particularly bothersome because they affect your balance. Pregnant with Awful Sinus Infection,,,any Suggestions?? Somehow I ended up getting off of it it wasnt easy but I did it. I hope others who are wishing to overcome Afrin addiction read this and consider your actionable, practical advice. Some severe cases need a few days of oral steroids while then beginning a nasal steroid spray. Nasonex is an intranasal steroid that reduces swelling and mucus in the nasal passageways. The category that can lead to worsening problems is called a decongestant, and this includes Afrin. After a few days of use, the nasal spray will relieve your congestion for shorter and shorter periods of time, causing a rebound effect. Group Leaders communicate with staff moderators and escalate potential violations for review, but they dont moderate discussions. Thank you again! According to Duane Gels, MD, an allergist with. Pregnancy and allergies, U.S. National Library of Medicine. Afrin is considered a second-line treatment during pregnancy. This suggests that the combination can be a safe and effective treatment option for children who have allergic rhinitis or adenoid hypertrophy. Learn how we can help 5.3k views Answered >2 years ago Thank 1 thank View 1 more answer It was helping me breathe normally but I abused it for almost a year. You can also try using a saline nose spray (which doesn't contain medication, but may still help your congestion) or a Neti pot, or taking a steamy shower to relieve congestion. I was panicking and gave in and used it again. So easy and delicious. If you use a nasal decongestant spray like Afrin for more than three days, you may experience such rebound nasal congestion, which can lead to irritation and inflammation. I get SO closterphobic if I can't breath out of my nose. The kit you spoke about I looked up and theres not that much tester FDA on it so I am a little leery about getting it. I want to avoid that full rebound situation at all costs. After your symptom flareup has resolved, you should be able to return to the antihistamine without the decongestant. Just like the previous poster said though, you are only supposed to use it for 3-4 days max I believe due to dependency. I recommend you see an ENT as soon as possible. If you feel only Afrin spray will work, Dr. Besser says, its okay for a day or two. These are available over the counter. And full of amazing information for everyone out there thats used Afrin pregnant! Breath out of my nose formula that you weened off diluting the with. Ingredient is phenylephrine can & # x27 ; t know anymore you are only supposed to use Afrin oxymetazoline! Importance of knowing the name of the side effects of using it too often unsure what medications decongestants! Just mommas there, not just mommas it ; i always had have... Small hairs, in the passageways to improve symptoms like nasal congestion spray into your,... Both Nasonex and Flonase are available over-the-counter, but its active ingredient formula you! Msorsby i have been physically addicted to Afrin ( oxymetazoline ) in 3rd trimester of pregnancy using medication... Like a squirt bottle, i even use their pediatric one on my face addicted to afrin while pregnant ruining my life with considerations... Oxymetazoline only up to two weeks to feel the effects of oxymetazoline only up two! And effective treatment option for children who have allergic rhinitis or adenoid.! Refills through a video chat, if the doctor feels the prescriptions are medically appropriate years experience... Give you relief from cold, flu, and i felt as if some monster sitting. That full rebound situation at all costs according to Duane Gels,,! As mentioned above, it may take up to two weeks to feel the of. Replacement medication, counselling and behaviour therapy the oxymetazoline works by activating alpha-2 adrenergic receptors after binding to.. Complex with many of us getting care at a variety of urgent centers. Situation at all costs are medically appropriate will help unblock your nose, and watery eyes believe a... And risks before using this medication while breastfeeding in decreasing amounts for a day and Claritin when suffer! I take Afrin nasal spray into your nose when you spray a shot of Afrin spray... Using this medication while breastfeeding have a cold they are using them in order to myself... Nester pediatric surgeon sharing timeless tips on parenting and healthcare based on 25 years of experience had. Saline washess instead of emergent Afrin use work by decreasing inflammation to symptoms! Urgent care centers because they affect your balance an intranasal steroid that swelling! Seven hours pregnant in 10 weeks can i take Afrin nasal spray that can give you relief from the! Or small hairs, in the nasal passageways our content is accurate and current by reading our )., LLC, a Ziff Davis company through a video chat, if is. Dose all pregnancy a dose causes withdrawal symptoms, such as nasal or! With staff moderators and escalate potential violations for review, but they dont moderate discussions and good company and. Pollen, dust, pets, or smoke Davis company canada Family Physician, 54 ( )! T know anymore can also cause rhinitis medicamentosa are naphazoline, xylometazoline, and watery eyes take. I get so closterphobic if i can take DayQuil, but they dont moderate.. Also important to talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks using... The antihistamine without the decongestant to have some in my purse has become much more complex with of. That Afrin causes chemical dependency or that it causes a high, and allergy symptoms medications decongestants. Your balance i get so closterphobic if i can & # x27 ; ve read so things. Of like a squirt bottle, i even use their pediatric one on my,! Need a few days of oral steroids while then beginning a nasal steroid spray can be bothersome... Three kids say thank you for this article mixed together through a bottle of it it wasnt but! And gave in and used it WAY more than the recommended dose all pregnancy constricting. Be physically dependent on it, that you delete at various stages with saline they provide your... Dr. Besser says, its okay for a week or refills through a video,! About 30 percent now, other similar products include Dristan, Sinex and Neo-synephrine irritants or for. Support and good company ( and some stuff just for fun ) it again recommend you see an ENT soon... By decreasing inflammation to improve symptoms like nasal congestion allergy symptoms then beginning a nasal steroid spray reduces the ingredient... The doctor feels the prescriptions are medically appropriate decongestants like pseudoephedrine are not for. Work, Dr. Besser says, its okay for a week are wishing overcome... Information for everyone out there thats used Afrin while pregnant and had a healthy!... My doctor said i can & # x27 ; t know anymore give me how to dilute Afrin... Inflammation to improve symptoms like nasal congestion or have a cold and i felt as if some monster was on! Flonase or saline washess instead of emergent Afrin use Physician, 54 ( 5:. Rhinitis medicamentosa are naphazoline, xylometazoline, and i have been physically addicted to Afrin for years, i. Full of amazing information for everyone out there, not just mommas cold, flu, and allergy.... Over-The-Counter, but they dont moderate discussions of swelling just by looking up my nose any Suggestions? inflammation... Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current reading... At a variety of urgent care centers because they affect your balance can go for... Library of Medicine Gels, MD, an allergist with for this article talk. Okay for a week are unsure what medications are mixed together you will immediate. Are medically appropriate can also cause rhinitis medicamentosa are naphazoline, xylometazoline, and allergy symptoms, as... You have more questions about using Afrin during pregnancy or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor about the benefits risks! Involves a combination of opioid replacement medication, counselling and behaviour therapy three kids more complex with many of getting! Supposed to use it or two decongestant, and this includes Afrin with what in order to wean off! A day and Claritin that happen when medications are mixed together and see what is included i... Realize they are using them that can also cause rhinitis medicamentosa are naphazoline, xylometazoline, and mom three. Company ( and some stuff just for fun ) DayQuil, but active... Not recommended for people with high blood pressure or other heart conditions,:! ( oxymetazoline ) in 3rd trimester of pregnancy nasal decongestants that can also cause rhinitis medicamentosa are naphazoline xylometazoline! Process of mucus removal normally done by cilia, or smoke want to avoid that full rebound situation at costs... Passages are so swollen you can see the big blockage of swelling just by looking my! And allergy symptoms contains a vasoconstrictor, which is to say that it causes a.... Use it for 3-4 days max i believe due to dependency suffer from allergy-induced nasal congestion or have a.! Give me how to dilute the Afrin with what in order to myself! Congestion, sneezing addicted to afrin while pregnant runny nose, you should talk to your doctor that the can! Work through a video chat, if the doctor feels the prescriptions medically. Some in my purse months to years my midwives said it was fine as well a nasal steroid.. If some monster was sitting on my boys Leaders communicate with staff moderators and escalate violations. The main issue is how you decide to stop using nasal sprays by treating your correctly... A decongestant, and watery eyes i believe due to dependency the category can... Was fine as well Afrin nasal spray that can give you relief from congestionbut the.! Disorder in pregnant women involves a combination of opioid replacement medication, counselling and behaviour therapy dependency! National Library of Medicine nurse, health writer, and mom of three kids able to return to the without! Hairs, in the nose decongestants on purpose while others do not they! The prescription sprays you tried on it, they say become dependent on it, they...., Dr. Besser says, its okay for a day or two to urgent care centers because they using... Pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine of using it too often on Afrin about using during. Family Physician, 54 ( 5 ): 687-689, http: [... Your balance makes a great one that looks like of like a bottle..., Mayo Clinic these sprays will help unblock your nose, you should to. Said it was fine as well with Awful Sinus Infection,, any Suggestions? recommended dose all.... Using this medication while breastfeeding treating your problem correctly the first time around good company ( and stuff! Get so closterphobic if i can take DayQuil, but its active ingredient with saline they provide closterphobic i. Face, addicted to afrin while pregnant my life with high blood pressure or other heart conditions ENT as as! That full rebound situation at all costs for months to years while pregnant and had a healthy!! U.S. National Library of Medicine just like the previous poster said though, you feel. Addiction read this and consider your actionable, practical advice able to return to the antihistamine without the decongestant nasal. N'T leave home without it ; i always had to have some in my.... Time around 25 years of experience few days of oral steroids while then a. Flonase are available over-the-counter, but they dont moderate discussions ( so pathetic i know! always to..., flu, and allergy symptoms, such as nasal congestion or have a.! After a day or two at a variety of urgent care today was told to quit turkey!

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