What is rebound congestion from nasal sprays?

Rebound congestion, or rhinitis medicamentosa, is a condition where overuse of nasal decongestant sprays causes symptoms to worsen and leads to dependency.

How long should I use nasal decongestant sprays according to the Royal Pharmaceutical Society?

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society advises limiting nasal decongestant spray use to a maximum of seven days to avoid rebound congestion.

What should I do if my nasal congestion lasts longer than seven days?

If your congestion persists after seven days of using nasal sprays, you should speak to your pharmacist for safe and effective alternative options.

Home / Health / Nasal Spray Overuse: Pharmacists Warn of Rebound Congestion

Nasal Spray Overuse: Pharmacists Warn of Rebound Congestion

10 Jan

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Summary

Extended nasal spray use causes rebound congestion, worsening symptoms.
Almost six in 10 pharmacists report public unawareness of overuse dangers.
Royal Pharmaceutical Society urges clearer packaging and pharmacist advice.

Nasal Spray Overuse: Pharmacists Warn of Rebound Congestion

Individuals using nasal decongestant sprays are urged to limit their use to a maximum of seven days. Prolonged use risks a condition known as 'rebound congestion,' or rhinitis medicamentosa, where symptoms paradoxically worsen and patients become reliant on the sprays to breathe. This is a significant concern, as a survey by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society found that 59% of pharmacists believe the public is not aware of these dangers.

The survey also indicated that 74% of pharmacists feel the packaging for these sprays should be more explicit about the seven-day usage limit. Consequently, almost two-thirds (63%) of pharmacists have intervened in cases where they suspected overuse. Professor Amira Guirguis of the RPS emphasized the need for clearer warnings and greater public understanding of the risks associated with exceeding the recommended duration.