Otrivine Congestion Relief Nasal Spray 0.1% – 10ml

What Is Otrivine Nasal Spray and How Does It Relieve Congestion?

If you have ever had a cold that left you unable to breathe through your nose, you will know how miserable nasal congestion can be. Otrivine nasal spray is a well-established, over-the-counter decongestant that provides fast, targeted relief from a blocked nose. Each 10ml bottle contains xylometazoline hydrochloride at a concentration of 0.1%, making it suitable for adults and children aged 12 and over. Whether your congestion is triggered by a cold, sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, this spray works directly at the source of the problem — the swollen blood vessels lining your nasal passages.

Nasal congestion occurs when the blood vessels inside the nose become inflamed and engorged, narrowing the airway and making breathing difficult. The NHS notes that a blocked nose is one of the most common symptoms of colds and upper respiratory infections. You can find a range of products to help manage these symptoms in our Cold and Flu collection.

How Does Otrivine Congestion Relief Nasal Spray Work?

Xylometazoline hydrochloride, the active ingredient in this spray, belongs to a class of medicines called sympathomimetic decongestants. It works by stimulating alpha-adrenergic receptors in the walls of the small blood vessels (arterioles) inside the nasal mucosa. This causes vasoconstriction — the vessels narrow — which reduces swelling of the nasal lining and decreases mucus secretion. The result is a noticeably clearer airway, usually within minutes of use.

• Xylometazoline binds to alpha-1 and alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in nasal blood vessels
• Vasoconstriction reduces mucosal oedema (swelling of the nasal lining)
• Mucus production decreases, reducing the sensation of a runny or blocked nose
• Relief typically begins within a few minutes and can last up to 10 hours

Who Should Use Otrivine Congestion Relief Nasal Spray?

This spray is intended for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and above. It is particularly useful for people who need short-term relief from nasal congestion and want a fast-acting, locally applied option rather than an oral decongestant. If your congestion is linked to seasonal allergies, you might also want to explore our Allergy and Hay Fever range for complementary treatments.

• Adults and children aged 12 and over with a blocked nose due to a cold or upper respiratory infection
• People with allergic rhinitis or hay fever causing nasal congestion
• Those with sinusitis who need short-term symptomatic relief
• Individuals who prefer a topical nasal spray over oral decongestant tablets

How Does Otrivine Nasal Spray Compare to Other Decongestant Sprays?

Is Otrivine Nasal Spray Suitable for Long-Term Use and How Should It Be Stored?

This is an important question. Otrivine nasal spray is designed for short-term use only — no more than 7 consecutive days. Using it beyond this period can lead to a condition called rhinitis medicamentosa, or rebound congestion, where the nasal passages become more blocked than before once the spray wears off. If your congestion persists beyond a week, speak to your GP or pharmacist rather than continuing to use the spray.

Store the bottle below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and keep it out of the reach of children. Do not share the spray with others, as this can spread infection. The Otrivine nasal spray bottle should be discarded after the recommended period of use stated on the packaging. If you are managing multiple symptoms alongside nasal congestion — such as sinus pain — you may also find relevant options in our Ear, Nose and Throat collection.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

What Is Otrivine Congestion Relief Nasal Spray and What Is It Used For?

Otrivine Congestion Relief Nasal Spray 0.1% is an over-the-counter nasal decongestant containing xylometazoline hydrochloride. It is used to relieve the symptoms of nasal congestion — that uncomfortable, stuffy feeling that makes it hard to breathe through your nose. The NHS identifies nasal congestion as a hallmark symptom of the common cold, sinusitis, and allergic rhinitis, including hay fever. This spray works locally inside the nose, so very little of the active ingredient is absorbed into the bloodstream compared to oral decongestants.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Otrivine Congestion Relief Nasal Spray?

Before using this spray, it is important to check whether it is appropriate for you. There are certain conditions and medicines that mean you should seek advice first.

Do not use this spray if you:

• Are allergic to xylometazoline hydrochloride or any other ingredient in the product
• Have dry nasal inflammation (atrophic rhinitis)
• Have had a trans-sphenoidal hypophysectomy or any other surgical procedure exposing the dura mater
• Are under 12 years of age (the 0.1% strength is not suitable for children under 12)
• Are taking or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 14 days

Use with caution and speak to your pharmacist or GP if you have:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Heart disease or angina
• An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
• Diabetes mellitus
• Glaucoma (raised pressure in the eye)
• An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia)
• Phaeochromocytoma

Known drug interactions:

• MAOIs — risk of hypertensive crisis; do not use together
• Tricyclic antidepressants — may enhance the cardiovascular effects of xylometazoline
• Other sympathomimetic medicines — additive effects possible

How Should You Use Otrivine Congestion Relief Nasal Spray?

Always use this spray exactly as directed on the label or as advised by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the stated dose. If you are unsure, ask your pharmacist for guidance.

1. Blow your nose gently to clear the nasal passages before use
2. Remove the protective cap from the nozzle
3. Tilt your head slightly forward
4. Insert the nozzle carefully into one nostril
5. Press the pump firmly once while breathing in gently through your nose
6. Breathe out through your mouth
7. Repeat in the other nostril if needed
8. Replace the cap after use and wipe the nozzle clean

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Otrivine Congestion Relief Nasal Spray?

Like all medicines, this spray can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and affect the nose and throat locally.

Common side effects:

• Nasal dryness or irritation
• Burning or stinging sensation inside the nose
• Sneezing after application
• Increased nasal discharge initially

Less common side effects:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Palpitations or increased heart rate
• Rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa) with use beyond 7 days
• Raised blood pressure — more likely in those with pre-existing hypertension

If you experience any serious or unexpected side effects, stop using the spray and contact your GP or pharmacist. You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

How Should You Store Otrivine Congestion Relief Nasal Spray?

Correct storage helps maintain the effectiveness and safety of the product. If you are also managing other health conditions alongside nasal congestion, our Pain Relief collection includes options for sinus headache and facial pain that may accompany a blocked nose.

• Store below 25°C
• Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
• Do not freeze
• Keep the bottle tightly capped when not in use
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label
• Do not share the spray with other people — this can spread infection
• Dispose of any unused product safely after the recommended period of use