2 Months post revision rhino. How do I stop using Afrin?

Question

For the first time I was prescribed Afrin after my revision rhino. I didn’t know it was humanly possible to breathe that well. Also didn’t know it was dangerous to keep using/habit forming...now I’m addicted. I cannot go to bed without one spray in each nostril. How do I wean myself off the sauce without being a mouth breather? When I stop use my nose closes completely! Can I replace with a different product that works just as well, but is safe? These OTC sprays do nothing so far.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

Afrin (Oxymetazolin) can be habit forming. It is not a true addiction. You should definitely see an Otolaryngologist. She/he might start you on a nasal steroid and a nasal antihistamine spray to help open the passages and may be a short course of oral steroids. During this time you can slowly wean yourself off the Afrin. Using lots of saline nasal spray definitely helps as well. RegardsDr. Janjua

Joelle Rogal, MD · Answer

You have a condition called rhinitis medicamentosa, which is a condition characterized by nasal congestion that has been triggered by the chronic use of Afrin.  You should speak with your surgeon to determine the best treatment options, but usually the treatment involves transitioning to a nasal steroid spray (flonase, nasonex, nasacort).  If this doesn't work, your doctor may need to prescribe a short course of oral steroids.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

You should speak with your surgeon to determine the best treatment options, but usually the treatment involves transitioning to a nasal steroid spray.  If this doesn't work, your doctor may need to prescribe a short course of oral steroids.

2 Months post revision rhino. How do I stop using Afrin?

Answers (3)