Key Summary
- RPS wants people to avoid using nasal sprays containing the decongestant xylometazoline or oxymetazoline for more than seven days
- Prolonged use can cause ‘rebound congestion’, or increased dependency on these sprays to breathe easily
- They should seek advice from pharmacists or other healthcare professionals if their nasal congestion persists
Amid the cold and flu season, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has advised the public not to use nasal decongestant sprays for long periods, and called for clear instructions on packages limiting their usage.
It warns that using sprays containing the decongestant xylometazoline, or oxymetazoline, for more than seven days in a row can cause ‘rebound congestion’, when people become dependent on the sprays to breathe easily.
Nasal decongestant sprays are available in many retail outlets, and are considered safe to use.
They clear a blocked nose by reducing its swelling, which helps to clear congestion and makes breathing easier.
However, using them beyond the maximum seven-day limit can lead to rebound congestion, also known as rhinitis medicamentosa, where symptoms worsen, and a cycle of dependency develops on the spray.
People need to watch out if they frequently need the spray, or feel their congestion would get worse if they stop, and buy multiple bottles or exceed the recommended dose.
If their condition persists, they need to seek advice from pharmacists or other healthcare professionals.
They should get advice from pharmacists about other treatment options such as saline rinses, nasal strips, menthol products, and steam inhalation.
The RPS has issued this advisory after a survey of over 300 community pharmacists showed a widespread lack of public awareness regarding the adverse effects of prolonged use of nasal decongestant sprays.
Six out of ten pharmacists believe that patients are unaware of the risk of rebound congestion.
During the survey, conducted between 25 November and 5 December 2025, 74 percent of pharmacists wanted packaging to be clearer about the seven-day limit.
Around 63 percent of pharmacists claimed they have intervened in cases of suspected over-use, often recommending alternatives or refusing sales.
The RPS is calling for clearer packaging to emphasise the seven-day use limit and greater public awareness of rebound congestion and safe alternatives.
RPS chief scientist Professor Amira Guirguis said, “Nasal decongestant sprays can be helpful for short-term relief, but using them for longer than seven days can make your congestion significantly worse.
"Our research shows that many people are unaware of this risk, which means they may continue using these sprays without realising they could be prolonging their symptoms.
“We’d like to see clearer warnings on the packaging that you can’t miss and greater awareness of the seven-day limit. If your congestion lasts more than a week, speak to your pharmacist. There are safe and effective alternative options to help you manage your symptoms.”
