It is important to note that nasal decongestant sprays like Afrin® are not to be used for longer than three days, as the label directs.
Nasal steroids sprays (Flonase®, Nasocort®, Nasonex®, etc. ) are safe to use on a daily basis and are now largely over-the-counter. These sprays are non-addictive and typically do not cause any long term changes to the nasal passages.
Antihistamine Nasal Sprays
Cromolyn sodium is an antihistamine spray available over the counter and can be used in ages 2 and up as directed. It may take a week or more of daily use before a person feels complete relief. Antihistamine nasal sprays are not addictive, and can be used up to 12 weeks.
You can use Nasonex® Allergy nasal spray on a daily basis for up to 6 months if needed. Do not use for more than 6 months continuously without the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.
Saline nasal sprays are good for everyday use because they're comprised of a salt water solution, rather than medication.
Saline nasal spray is safe to use often or longer term. Still, do not use any type of nasal spray long-term without your medical provider's approval. Some nasal sprays can lead to complications when overused. Overuse of steroid nasal spray can thin the tissues of the nose and lead to more frequent nosebleeds.
Remember: Using a nasal decongestant spray for more than three days can actually worsen your congestion.
Reason for the Shortage
Merck states Nasonex was on shortage due to a manufacturing issue.
These side effects are more likely in children and people who use this medication for a long time and in high doses. Tell your doctor right away if any of the following side effects occur: unusual/extreme tiredness, weight loss, headache, swelling ankles/feet, increased thirst/urination, vision problems.
Mometasone is a steroid. It prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation. Mometasone nasal (for the nose) is used to prevent seasonal allergy symptoms in adults and children who are at least 12 years old.
Alternatives to nasal sprays
A saline nasal spray is drug-free and is generally safe. Another option is to use a neti pot. These are an effective way to flush mucus and allergens out of the nose.
Overuse of nasal sprays can also lead to other side effects, including headache, coughing, nasal passage swelling (inflammation), increased risk of sinus infection, and, rarely, tears in the nostril membranes. Don't let that scare you from getting the relief you need.
Use up to 8 ounces of solution in each nasal cavity 1-2 times daily, or as often as prescribed by a health care provider.
Saline nasal sprays work by moisturizing the nose, dissolving and loosening the mucus in the nasal passages, adding moisture to the nasal passages to prevent them from becoming more inflamed, and preventing the nasal passages from drying out.
Rebound congestion develops when you use nasal sprays containing phenylephrine and oxymetazoline for too long. Rebound congestion is tough to treat and can take up to 1 year to go away. You can avoid rebound congestion by stopping decongestant nasal sprays after 3 to 5 days.
Nasonex should not be taken by anyone who has had a previous allergic reaction to mometasone furoate. Nasonex should not be used if you have nasal ulcers, or have had recent nasal surgery or nasal trauma. Nasonex may exacerbate certain viral and bacterial infections.
Nose/throat dryness or irritation, cough, sneezing, nosebleeds, or unpleasant taste/smell may occur. If any of these side effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Mometasone (Nasonex) is currently the only nasal steroid indicated for the treatment of acute sinusitis. It reduces the number of basophils and eosinophils in the mucosa and inhibits the late-phase reaction after exposure to allergens.
Corticosteroid nasal sprays such as Flonase and Nasacort are the best source for treatment because they help reduce swelling in the nasal passages.
This may due to too much or too little salt in the saline solution. 5 It is also possible that the irrigation may actually cause nasal congestion, but this will typically resolve on its own.